 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.  |
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