 Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan recently hosted an exciting Youth Ambassador-led event, celebrating the creativity and talents of the youth in their program.
This gallery-style event displayed a range of artwork from the Littles, offering attendees a glimpse into their unique artistic abilities. From colorful paintings to imaginative sculptures, the artwork on display truly showcased the creativity of the BBBSSM youth. In addition to enjoying the gallery, attendees were invited to join in the fun by creating their own art. Several art stations were set up, allowing participants to make their own pieces, which they could either take home or add to the gallery. The event space turned into a vibrant, living exhibit as new works of art were created and displayed throughout the day. One of the highlights of the event was a raffle, where a few lucky participants received small art kits. These kits were a fun way to inspire continued creativity and were met with great enthusiasm. The success of the event was thanks to the careful planning and dedication of the BBBSSM Youth Ambassadors, who took the lead in organizing every aspect. Their passion for bringing the community together through art made the day truly special, filled with energy, laughter, and plenty of artistic inspiration. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan looks forward to hosting more events like this in the future, continuing to support and celebrate the talents of their Littles. Keep an eye out for future opportunities to join in and see what these incredible youth create next! Sheetz, a major Mid-Atlantic convenience store chain, celebrated its Detroit-area expansion with a $10,000 donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan (BBBSSM). The contribution underscores Sheetz’s commitment to supporting local organizations that mentor and empower youth across the region.
The donation comes as Sheetz opened its first Detroit-area store at 33380 Wick Road in Romulus. This store is part of Sheetz’s broader expansion plan in the region, with additional locations scheduled. These openings are bringing a much-anticipated blend of high-quality convenience, fresh food and community-focused initiatives to the Metro Detroit area. BBBSSM, which serves hundreds of youth through mentoring relationships, expressed profound gratitude for Sheetz’s contribution. The donation will play a vital role in supporting the organization’s mission to ignite the potential of area youth by fostering meaningful, one-on-one mentoring relationships. Jennifer Spitler, president and CEO of BBBSSM, emphasized the importance of such partnerships: “Funding from partners like Sheetz is crucial in making our mentoring programs possible. Their support helps us continue our work to create impactful mentoring experiences that shape the futures of our young people.” This donation is only a part of Sheetz’s long-standing commitment to giving back to the communities they serve. The convenience chain has a history of philanthropy, providing financial support to local food banks, volunteering with Special Olympics chapters, and helping families in need during the holidays. For Sheetz, every store opening represents more than just business growth—it’s an opportunity to become a pillar of community support. Recently named one of the “Companies that Care” by Great Place to Work and PEOPLE Magazine, Sheetz is committed to both its employees and the communities it serves. As Sheetz’s presence in Southeast Michigan grows, so too will its positive impact, continuing to inspire other companies to follow suit in making meaningful community contributions. The Romulus store opening is a celebration not just of a new business, but of the strong partnerships being formed between Sheetz and organizations like BBBSSM, proving that we are truly “Bigger Together.”  August was a bustling month for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan filled with vibrant community events, fairs, and festivals all geared toward back-to-school preparations and forging new connections with potential mentors and community partners. Here are just a few examples. The month kicked off with an exciting presence at Life Remodeled’s All.In Community Fair, held at the Durfee Innovation Society on August 16. Although BBBS was not the organizer of this event, the team was thrilled to participate in the celebration of the community in Detroit and pass out school supplies. The fair was packed with activities, including giveaways, a gaming truck, a bounce house and more. It was a fantastic opportunity for BBBS to mingle with community members, share information about programs, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this local event. Just a few days later, on August 19, BBBS participated in Macomb Community College’s Welcome Week event for students. The event attracted many attendees with some eager to learn more about becoming a Big. The diverse crowd provided a great platform for BBBS to showcase the mission and vision, emphasizing the positive impact that mentorship can have on both the Bigs and Littles. It was a rewarding experience to connect with so many interested individuals from various backgrounds. The following week, on August 22, BBBS participated in a back-to-school event at Erickson Elementary. This event provided an excellent opportunity to engage with over 100 parents and guardians. BBBS staff were on hand to discuss the organization’s programming and the benefits of school-based mentoring. The school-based program allows mentors (Bigs) to spend time with students (Littles) during lunchtime, with activities planned by BBBS staff. The event also served as a call to action for parents and guardians to consider volunteering as mentors, helping to support the school’s students throughout the academic year. On August 26, BBBS attended a Lawrence Technological University back to school event where the agency passed out resource materials, signed potential Bigs and community partners up and more. August wrapped up with a visit to Eastern Michigan University’s Job Fair on August 28th. BBBS staff were busy discussing their volunteer mentoring programs and the four job openings available at the agency. The table drew about 50 visitors, with a dozen expressing interest in the school-based mentoring program. Additionally, engaging conversations with EMU students highlighted potential future collaborations and employment opportunities. Overall, August was a month of numerous successful community engagement for BBBS of Southeast Michigan. The team is excited to build on these connections and looks forward to continuing their mission of making a positive impact in the lives of young people throughout the region. Interested in becoming a Big today? Find out more here.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan celebrated its inaugural Family Fun Day event on Sunday, August 4 at Lower Huron Metropark.   The event brought together the greater BBBS community for an afternoon of fun and camaraderie. Attendees enjoyed a variety of grilled foods, snacks and refreshing drinks at the pavilion. The day featured various activities including races, dodgeball and popular lawn games like Giant Jenga and corn hole. The park’s amenities, such as trails, playgrounds, and a water park were also available for families to explore. The event welcomed everyone, including enrolled Littles, Littles on the waitlist, siblings, their families, staff and volunteers. The community came together to make this inaugural Family Fun Day a memorable experience, showcasing the spirit and unity that define Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan. A special thank you to the volunteers who helped ensure the event’s success. The day was a testament to the strong bonds within the BBBS community and set a high standard for future events.  Making a difference one block at a time.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan (BBBSSEM) is proud to collaborate with The People’s Action and their Adopt the Block initiative, striving to create safer and thriving communities in Detroit. This partnership underscores our commitment to mentoring and guidance, allowing us to extend our support to more individuals in need. Our ongoing partnerships are vital in fulfilling our mission. By working with organizations like The People’s Action, we can amplify our impact, reaching more potential mentors and youth in underserved areas. These collaborations enable us to build strong community bonds and foster environments where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. The recent surge of 27 volunteer inquiries for Big Brothers Big Sisters is heartening, showing the community’s dedication to making a difference. The eagerness of these potential mentors reflects a strong desire to positively impact young lives and create lasting connections through programs like Adopt the Block. One potential Big shared their reason for joining: “I see this as a chance to give back and be a positive influence for a young person in need. Through mentoring, we can make a real difference in people’s lives.” Our participation in tabling events, such as those organized by Adopt the Block, plays a crucial role in our outreach efforts. These events provide a platform to engage directly with the community, share our mission, and inspire others to become involved. They allow us to connect with potential mentors and volunteers who are passionate about making a difference. At BBBSSEM, we believe in the transformative power of mentorship. Partnering with organizations like The People’s Action through Adopt the Block allows us to reach more potential Bigs in underserved areas and offer youth the support they need to thrive. Together, we are dedicated to building strong community bonds, promoting unity, and creating a better future for all. As a vendor participant in Adopt the Block, BBBSSEM encourages individuals to consider becoming mentors and volunteers in their communities. Your involvement can make a significant impact and help our neighborhoods grow and prosper. Join us in strengthening communities through collaboration. If you’re interested in mentoring or volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan, reach out today and start making a positive impact in your community. To learn more about becoming a Big in our Site-Based Mentoring programs, attend one of our weekly virtual Information Session by signing up HERE. Click HERE to connect with us for more info. Questions for site-based programming?For Washtenaw and Western Wayne County, email: [email protected] or call 734-217-4550. For Eastern Wayne, Oakland, or Macomb Counties, email: [email protected] or call 313-626-5208. Questions for community-based programming or overall?Email [email protected] or call 734-263-1970. Ready to get started?
 BBBSSM Littles and Lions join forces during training camp
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan (BBBSSM) attended the Detroit Lions Training Camp on July 31 in a demonstration of community spirit and partnership. This exciting event, held at the Lions’ training facility in Allen Park, provided a unique opportunity for BBBSSM to connect with local sports enthusiasts, promote the agency’s mission and celebrate the vital impact of mentorship. This day was especially impactful for BBBSSM Little Leo and his brother, also a Little, La’velle who had the chance to meet their football heroes up close including Terrion Arnold — more on that in a moment. The Lions players, known for their dedication both on and off the field, took time to engage with the children, signing autographs, posing for photos, and sharing inspiring words. The brothers’ excitement were a testament to the power of these meaningful interactions. A Special Reunion: Little Leo and Terrion Arnold One of the day’s most heartwarming moments was the reunion of Little Leo and Lions player Terrion Arnold. Their bond began ahead of a spring Big Draft Watch Party hosted by BBBSSM at Comerica Park, where Leo had the unique opportunity to serve as an Old Spice Little Reporter and interview Arnold. This memorable interaction left a lasting impression on both Leo and Arnold. Reuniting at the training camp was a significant moment for Leo, who was thrilled to see his role model once again. Arnold made the day even more special by signing a picture of their first meeting and sharing that he keeps Leo’s photograph in his locker room as a source of inspiration. This powerful connection exemplifies the profound impact that mentorship and positive role models can have on young lives. Building Stronger Bonds Through Sports Attending the Lions Training Camp was more than just a fun outing; it was a strategic effort to reinforce the ‘Bigger Together’ theme that BBBSSM champions. Sports, particularly football, have a unique way of bringing people together, fostering teamwork, and building lifelong bonds. For the Littles, many of whom look up to athletes as role models, this experience was both motivational and affirming. BBBSSM Interim Development Director Anne Marie Veneroni emphasized the importance of such events. “We believe in creating opportunities where our Littles can see the potential within themselves. Meeting the Lions players like Terrion Arnold, among others, seeing their dedication and hard work, and understanding that they too can achieve greatness is an invaluable lesson. We are bigger together when we support each other, and today’s event is a perfect example of that.” Strengthening Community Ties The Lions Training Camp visit was also an excellent platform for BBBSSM to engage with potential volunteers and supporters. As the organization celebrates its first year as an agency, the focus on expanding their network of Bigs – adult volunteers who serve as mentors – has never been stronger. Events like this showcase the vibrant community BBBSSM is building and the positive ripple effects of mentorship. A Day of Inspiration and Aspiration BBBSSM Match Support Specialist Linda Goble (pictured with La’velle and Leo) highlighted the inspirational aspect of the day. “Being here today is not just about watching football; it’s about showing our Littles that they can aspire to be anything they dream of. Whether it’s on the field or in any other arena of life, the sky’s the limit. And we, as a community, are here to support them every step of the way.” As BBBSSM continues to grow and foster meaningful connections, events like the Lions Training Camp visit are crucial. They provide memorable experiences, deepen the impact of mentorship, and strengthen the fabric of the community. With the ongoing support of partners like the Detroit Lions Foundation and the dedication of countless volunteers, BBBSSM is poised to make an even greater difference in the lives of young people across Southeast Michigan. Together, we are indeed bigger, stronger and better. BBBS knows mental health matters to men At the tail end of June, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan (BBBSSEM) held its inaugural Men’s Wellness Day event at The Dive inside Durfee Innovation Society in Detroit. The event, a resounding success, encouraged Black men to prioritize their mental health. Partnering with other nonprofits such as The HUG Haven, Enjoy Detroit, and Detroit Dads Group, the event fostered community solidarity around this crucial topic. Timed to honor National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month in July, the free event was born from heartfelt conversations among local men grappling with mental health challenges. Recognizing the need for a supportive space to discuss mental health and self-care, Men’s Wellness Day came to life. “Men’s Wellness Day is a significant step in addressing the mental health needs of Black men in our community,” said DK Williams, Director of Operations & Innovation at BBBSSEM. “We aimed to create a safe and supportive environment where men could openly discuss their struggles and learn practical strategies for self-care.” According to the Hutchins Center for African & African American Research, Black communities saw a significant increase in suicide death rates from 2010 to 2020, with Black men particularly at risk. This reality underscored the urgency of events like Men’s Wellness Day. The event featured various activities including:
BBBSSEM is dedicated to helping children realize their potential and build their futures by fostering a culture of health and wellness. This event aligns with our mission to support the holistic well-being of the individuals we serve, nurturing children and strengthening communities through mentorship and supportive programs. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and made Men’s Wellness Day a success. Your involvement has helped amplify the message of mental health awareness and the importance of self-care within our community.  This year’s local Juneteenth celebrations are just around the corner and BBBS of Washtenaw is so excited to share-and participate in-some of the planned activities.
Juneteenth (short for "June Nineteenth") commemorates the day in 1865 that federal troops finally arrived in Galveston, Texas to free all enslaved people in the state, almost three years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. While it has only officially been a federal holiday since 2021, it is considered the longest running African American holiday in the country overall, and will be marked by some fantastic activities here in Washtenaw County. Ypsilanti Juneteenth Celebration Once again, the Ypsilanti Juneteenth Celebration is shaping up to be a wonderful event! This year’s event will run June 16th, 17th, and 18th, and will include hustle lessons, a kids’ corner filled with games and other fun activities, church services on Sunday, a Gospel and Giggles comedy hour, and an almost 5 hour music festival on Saturday. For more information about Ypsi’s event, check out this feature article in Concentrate! Ann Arbor Activities There will be several different events happening throughout Ann Arbor this weekend, including the 3rd annual University of Michigan Juneteenth Symposium. This year’s theme is Systems Check: Exploring Structural Solutions to Systemic Racism and everyone in the community is invited to join the university as the panel discusses highlighted topics such as housing discrimination and voter suppression. Other university events include a prayer breakfast, a Black film festival, and a tent in the Top of the Park Kids Zone. Click here for a full list of U of M sponsored events and click here for the calendar of other Juneteenth events happening around Ann Arbor. BBBS of Washtenaw is thrilled to be a part of the Ypsilanti Juneteenth Celebration again this year-look for us at the Kids’ Corner!  The advent of social media has brought many wonderful changes to modern life, including more convenient and instantaneous ways to communicate, greater global connectivity, and expanded business marketing opportunities. However, it has also had negative effects, especially on our mental health. Since May is Mental Health Awareness Month, this is a perfect opportunity to look into the effects of social media on our mental health, both positive and negative.
Positive Impacts of Social Media Used sparingly and with the right intent under the right circumstances, social media can have a very positive impact on daily life and can even boost our mental health. According to ZocDoc, the primary ways social media usage can positively affect our mental well being includes making it easier to meet new friends and stay in contact with old ones, sharing art and music, finding communities of people who share similar interests, and having a place to explore and express our thoughts, ideas, and opinions. Negative Impacts of Social Media Unfortunately, when used too often and for more detrimental reasons such as a fear of missing out, responsibility avoidance, or mindless habit, social media can also negatively affect our mental state. Help.org lists the following as the primary ways excessive social media use can harm us:
Warning Signs of Unhealthy Impacts What are some signs you can watch for in yourself, your child, or other loved one to warn you that social media usage is becoming unhealthy and potentially damaging?
If you or someone you know is experiencing the negative effects of social media usage, consider downloading a usage app, turning phones off at certain times of the day, disabling social media notifications, or even removing social media from phones altogether as simple ways to cut down potentially harmful levels of social media use. Visit Mental Health America for more information on Mental Health Awareness Month April is Child Abuse Prevention Month and we’re spotlighting how our new Keep Connected program can play an important part in preventing child abuse in our community.
According to the Administration for Children & Families, one of the most successful ways to prevent child abuse and neglect is to strengthen the family as a whole and create opportunities for them to flourish and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) compiled the following list of strategies that are most helpful in creating stable, nurturing, and safe family environments:
To tap into the benefits of education and enhancing parenting skills in the prevention of child maltreatment, BBBS of Washtenaw recently applied for and received a State of Michigan grant that will enable us to implement the Keep Connected program, an interactive workshop series specifically formulated to strengthen youth and parent relationships during the middle school years, often a highly stressful time for families. This program is designed to improve parent-youth communications, increase student motivation, connect families to other families in similar places, and give kids more confidence as they move into their teen years. In 2023, BBBS will host four full Keep Connected workshops at various locations, with room for 10 families in each set of workshops. Each workshop will also include six individual sessions, plus an additional graduation session. The six sessions will focus on:
If you are interested in learning more about our Keep Connected program, please contact our Family Engagement Coordinator, Keyera North, at [email protected] |
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