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| Big Brothers Big Sisters |
September 27, 2000 |
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| Earlier this year I had the privilege of joining city officials, volunteer mentors, and students during a reception to recognize the many volunteers—including more than 20 city employees—in the Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program at Emerson Elementary School.
VIDA, the Big Brothers/Big Sisters’ Volunteers Into Direct Action Program, has placed more than 20 volunteer mentors at Emerson, most of them employees of the City’s Transit Department. Among the people that take the time to volunteer as mentors at Emerson, is my district director, Julie Dreike.
For Julie, and people like her, this program has been an incredible experience. “I remember the people in my life who were my mentors,” said Dreike. “They helped teach me how to have fun, right from wrong, helped with school work, taught me hobbies that I still enjoy today and so much more.
“I enjoy my visits with my Little Sister at Emerson Elementary. We read books together, work on crafts, walk around the campus and talk, put puzzles together, or play games. She is a bright 5th grader and VIDA is a well-organized program, providing support to the adults and the students,” concluded Dreike.
Big Brothers Big Sisters has been in the mentoring business for nearly a century and aims to connect children with adult mentors who can offer them friendship, guidance, and a positive perspective on life. As a Co-Chair of America’s Promise, I encourage you to consider getting involved in this wonderful program or anyone of the other outstanding volunteer programs across New Mexico. For more information check out the Big Brothers Big Sisters of central New Mexico web page or contact my office in Albuquerque at 346-6781. |
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