Holiday Party Pics!

Many thanks to the John Deere WomenREACH group for hosting the holiday party yet again this year!  We are so grateful to have your support!  The Bigs and Littles experienced a fun and festive event filled with games, crafts, holiday goodies and many laughs.

November Matches and December Anniversaries

Big Brothers Big Sisters would like to WELCOME the following new matches made in November:

Kayla Birmingham and Za'ah
Nathan Buchheit and Kadin
Jordan Higgins and Maya
Angela Richards and Kaytlyn
Ali Sheahan and Syncere
Lauren Twait and Brooklyn


CONGRATS to the following matches reaching their anniversary during the month of December:

One Year:
Heather Fiato and Sarah
Kirstie Ruhland and Aaliyah

Two Years:
Nanette Kane and Mo'randa
Todd Kerr and Ben

Four Years:
Ruth Schluter and Emily

Five Years:
Carol Houk and Trinity
Sean Hylton and DeQuonterio

Seven Years:
David Buck and Malik

What Katie is thankful for...

Program Director, Katie Klein, shares what she is thankful for during this holiday season...

"I am thankful for the STAFF at Big Brothers Big Sisters for their passion to serve our mission on a daily basis.  For their persistence to continue serving the youth and all involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters to the best of their ability.  For showing up everyday ready and willing to change how children grow up in our community.

I am thankful for the BOARD of DIRECTORS  for volunteering their time to guarantee the success of Big Brothers Big Sisters through their leadership and guidance.

I am thankful for the BIGS for their unwavering dedication to their Littles.  Who give their time to commit to changing little lives for the better, forever.  For accepting the challenge and persevere through the struggles in order to show a child new and grand opportunities.  For cheering on their Little as they learn how to ride their bike for the first time, pass the math test they've study for together, discover new talents, and to watch their Little with pride as they become the first person in their family to accept their high school diploma, attend college and pursue their dreams.

I am thankful for all the DONORS for their gracious support. Who give their time, talent and treasure so that the community we live in can become a better place for all.  You believe in Big Brothers Big Sisters and understand that your contributions help put a child on the path to success.

For ALL OF YOU, I am grateful to be a part of SOMETHING BIG!"

What Meredith is thankful for...

Match Coordinator, Meredith Goldman, shares what she is thankful for during this holiday season...

"I am thankful for this new opportunity to work with the wonderful people in the Cedar Valley. I have the good fortune of caring co-workers who share a desire to support the youth in our community. I have really enjoyed getting to know the people matched in our program and look forward to visiting with everyone further. Big Brothers Big Sisters is a great program, and I am so glad to be here."



 

What Keri is thankful for...

Bremer County Site Manager, Keri Kono, shares what she is thankful for during this holiday season:

"I am thankful for every individual who dedicates their time and energy to Big Brothers Big Sisters.  Those who accept the challenge and invest in a child in our community deserve all of the thanks in the world.  So to all of you, whether you are a Big, a Board Member or a supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters thank you for allowing me to come to work every day and do something that I love!"



 

Tips for Tuesday: What to do when Littles say "I don't know"

"Help!  I ask my Little what he would like to do during our visits and he always answers with,  I don't know."   "What should I do?!"

This is just one example of several questions we receive from Bigs over the course of a match span.  Since it is so common amongst matches, we thought we'd offer some suggestions to help guide you along the way of developing a lasting friendship with your Little.

First, as difficult as it may be, please do not take it personally.  It can be a fear for some Bigs that this means their Little doesn't like hanging out or isn't having fun.  Rest assured this is not the case.  Often times, Littles simply just don't know how to respond or may not feel fully comfortable yet in the friendship to offer suggestions.

Many of the children in our program have not had the opportunity to see what the community has to offer or what ideas to suggest.  To help your Little through this process and empower them to make decisions we've outlined a few tips to try...

1.  Always give options when deciding what to do during visits.  Depending on the age of your Little you may want to suggest 2-4 options.  Instead of simply asking Littles what they want to do, come up with a few activity ideas for Littles to pick from each time.  With time, they will feel more comfortable with making the decision and might get to the point of coming up with activities on their own.
*Remember, when giving options choose ideas you are prepared to do if chosen.  Keep ideas simple and inexpensive

2.  Create a list of ideas with your Little that you think you would like to do together.  Be prepared to come up with your own ideas to get the process started.  Utilize your Match Coordinator in this process for activity suggestions.

3.  Choose ideas listed on the E-Update.  For those of you who aren't familiar, this is a bi-weekly newsletter that your Match Coordinator emails to you providing community events and activity ideas.  If you're not receiving the E-Update, please let your Match Coordinator know!

4.  Drive or walk around the community and show your Little what opportunities are available.

5.  Take turns, depending on the age of your Little (the older the better for this tip), discuss during your match visits how you would like he/she to have more say in determining how you'll spend your time together.  Alternate visit by visit and take turns deciding what to do. 
*Remember to set boundaries around money spending

6.  Utilize the Resource Room located in the Big Brothers Big Sisters office.  Bring your Little along to choose an item to check out or check out several items yourself and let your Little decide during your visit. 
*Remember, the Resource Room can be made available to you after office hours if necessary


Developing a friendship is not always easy, but hard work does pay off!  Continue to remain consistent with your visits and praise your Littles as they begin to gain a sense of empowerment throughout this process! 

October Matches and November Anniversaries

Big Brothers Big Sisters would like to WELCOME the following new matches made in October:

Alexandria McNamee and Ryan
Karen Schmitt and Anna




CONGRATS to the following matches reaching their anniversary during the month of November:

One Year:
Emily Rogers and Jamilei
Laura Cross and Keeasia
Lydia Sink and Madison
Ashley Shaw and Trevor
Blakely Gardner and Nadine
Stephanie Ehlers and Serenity
Kelly Brown and Colton
Jenny Hagarty and Sarah
Margaret Delaney and Kamarion
Eric Johnson and Mondre
Michael Moorhead and Dante
Marcie Sharp and Jazmyn

Two Years:
Justin Tolan and Zion
Caitlin Bielenberg and Kylee
Lisa Frank and Elizabeth
Tom Taiber and Caleb
Karelyn Pohl and Alyssa
Cory Berkenes and Grant
Grace Rogers and Chalea

Three Years:
Vern Byl and Michael

Five Years:
Dave Vandeventer and Aaron

Six Years:
Mary Ann Hinders and Veronica
Ruth Mick and Jayden
Ellen Vanderloo and Nashalet

Seven Years:
Dewitt Jones and Todd

Eight Years:
Erick Mandt and Tom

Little Sisters Needed!

Do you know a child who would benefit from time spent with a

Big Sister?

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Iowa is currently recruiting Little Sisters for the Community Based program.  In this program, Bigs and Littles would spend time out in the community doing different activities they both enjoy.  For example, visits might consist of playing board games, going to a movie, visiting the library or community museums.  Most importantly, Bigs and Littles have fun together developing a lasting impact and friendship.

If you or someone you know would be interested in enrolling a child or would like more information please contact
319-235-9397 or visit www.iowabigs.org.

 

Halloween Party Pics!

Bigs and Littles had a spooky good time this year at the Big Brothers Big Sisters annual Halloween party! Featuring a costume contest, pumpkin painting, marshmallow roasting and trick-or-treating on the trails with ghosts and goblins galore!

October Anniversaries

CONGRATS to the following matches reaching their anniversary during the month of October:


One Year
Matt Buzynski and Mikael
Brian Crow and Connor
Sydni Fenner and Annie
Carol Hoffman and Matt
Jesse Knight and Tucker
Bob Quinlan and Sam
Matt Ray and Kadyn
Julie Wilharm and Hailey

Two Years
Courtney Bauer and Jachise
Joey Boyer and Tyrell
Matt Brady and Blake
Dan Daly and Jake
Dewitt Jones and Jaden
Lorrie Kingen and Serina
Jerrilu Leach and Briana
Jordan Richards and Colin
Steve Schmitt and Quinton

Four Years
Andrea Blanchard and Lakyah

Five Years
Bob Claassen and Antonio

Seven Years
John Mardis and Mitchell
Frank Thompson and Ashanti

Eight Years
Sherry Etringer and Tru
Joanne Koweil and Quaynisha

Extra! Extra! Read All About It!

The Fall 2013 newsletter is here!  Read up on all the Big Brothers Big Sisters happenings:

Fall 2013 Newsletter

September Anniversaries

CONGRATS to the following matches reaching their anniversary during the month of September:

Two Years:
Ashley Coleman and Lacey
Scott Kinter and Ivan
Charlie Metcalf and Kaiden
Monica Severson and Amity

Three Years:
Kathleen Sallee and Dysis
Amie Steffen and Haley

Four Years:
Brittany Davis and Emily

Five Years:
Jim Grandon and Damarius

Six Years:
Amy Hunzelman and Craig

Match Spotlight: Jordan and Colin

Big Brother, Jordan ,has been matched with Little Brother, Colin, since 2011 in the Community Based Program.  Colin says “the match is epic!”  Colin’s mom agrees and states, “I feel that the match between Colin and Jordan has been wonderful for Colin. It is a relationship that Colin will never forget. They have so many things in common and have so much fun together. Colin has had the chance to experience so many things through Big Brothers Big Sisters such as; the airport where Colin got to fly in a plane for the first time, pro football game (Minnesota Vikings), hockey game, and a baseball game; plus they have plans to do laser tag later this summer. These are all things that Colin would not have been able to do any other time and he spent it with his Big Brother.”  Jordan adds that they also do simple things together too such as attending the Waverly Heritage Days parade, attending 

Big Brothers Big Sisters events, throwing a football, playing games, eating ice cream and one of Colin’s favorite, bowling.  Jordan is glad that Colin is always open to new experiences. 

 Since Jordan and Colin’s match, Colin’s mom, Carly, has seen Colin grow into a young man and feels that Jordan has helped lead Colin in the right direction. Carly is excited that Colin has not been getting into trouble at school and says, “It is awesome.”  Colin has also seen a difference in himself since he has been matched with Jordan.  Colin says, “I have been more kind and open to trying new things."   Jordan sees the changes in Colin too and has seen some of Colin’s interests change since they have been matched. 

Jordan became a Big Brother because he was interested in being able to help, he likes being around kids, had a lot of free time, and wanted to make a change in someone’s life; even if it means playing football each week.   

Carly wanted a Big Brother for Colin because he has two sisters and felt he needed someone in his life he can look up to, get help from if he needs it, and just be there for him. Carly feels that Jordan has been a wonderful person in Colin's life and thanks him for everything he does, the time he spends with Colin and just being the Big Brother Colin has always hoped for.

July Matches and August Anniversaries

Big Brothers Big Sisters would like to WELCOME the following new matches made in July:

Trent Duniven and Josh
Erica Jacobsen and Kalena
Mark Graf and Antwan
Christi Nebbia and Kiana


CONGRATS to the following matches reaching their anniversary during the month of August:

One Year:
Matt Kiser and Jared

Two Years:
Michael Petersen and Logan
Ben Delagardelle and Daniel

Three Years:
Ben Jones and Darrin

Four Years:
Pam Taylor and DaQuevian

Start Something Big

Get an inside look at what Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Iowa is all about as Bigs, Littles, and Parents share their experiences.

 

                           

 

To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Iowa visit www.iowabigs.org

 

 

 

Match Spotlight: Amie and Haley

Nearly three years ago, Haley and Amie were matched in the School Based program.  Haley was in 4^th grade at the time, and they began consistently meeting every week in school.  During this time, they played many games and even created their very own books.  After two and a half years of being matched, they both decided that it was time to expand their relationship and began meeting outside of school. They have enjoyed going to the Humane Society and working in the Community Garden, amongst many other things.

“I have loved being matched with Haley because we are alike in a lot of ways. She's fun to talk to and we think of a lot of fun stuff to do together,” stated Amie about their time spent together. When asked how Amie feels Haley has changed in the past few years, she responded, “I have noticed her attention span is a bit longer, her mood is great and her teacher says she is doing better in class.”

Haley’s mother also feels that Haley has greatly benefitted from being involved in the program.  “Amie has done wonders with Haley.  Haley has gotten to go out and do so many more things than she otherwise wouldn’t have the opportunity to do.  We are very thankful that Haley and Amie are matched,” stated Haley’s mom.

Haley will be moving into Junior High this upcoming school year and is happy to have her Big Sister there for her as she takes this next big step. The opportunities for fun are endless in this match and many more memories are bound to come!

 

 

June Matches and July Anniversaries

Big Brothers Big Sisters would like to WELCOME the following new matches made in June:

Tenille Graf and DeNay
Andrea Schupbach and Jazmyn


CONGRATS to the following matches reaching their anniversary during the month of July:

One Year:
Chelsi Baker and Cally
Ted Mikels and Cameron
Charles Shumaker, Amanda Higgins and Kyan

Two Years:
Dan Hatala and Rylee
Chris Noland and John
Meghan Winger and Kennedi

Three Years:
Cassy Moorhead and Katahvia

Four Years:
Linda Bergmann and Hannah
Jim Brown and DeAngelo

Five Years:
Shari Anderson and Chelsey
Michelle Temeyer and Dahzhanel

"Oh, the Places You'll Go!"

 

Seven years ago, Little Sister, Shannon, met her Big Sister, Sherry.  The two were paired together in the School Based program and began their relationship meeting every week at Lincoln Elementary.  It didn’t take long for Shannon and Sherry to discover they had more in common than they thought and soon decided to expand their friendship and transferred into the School Based Plus program. This decision allowed them to continue meeting during school hours in addition to meeting outside of school.  Sherry wanted the chance to give Shannon the opportunity to experience new adventures in life such as going to the ballet and community plays.

 

As the years went on, Shannon’s mother, LeAnne, was able to witness the improvement in her daughter’s development.  Shannon felt confident with her Big Sister and found the confidant she’d been seeking.  LeAnne’s decision to enroll her child into Big Brothers Big Sisters was proven correct day after day during each awaited visit as she watched Shannon’s face light up when Sherry arrived.  Through Shannon’s ups and downs, her Big Sister has been by her side.  Shannon feels supported, understood and feels comfortable in her own skin with Sherry.  During their time together, Sherry has allowed Shannon to discover her strengths in creativity and performing.  She has encouraged Shannon to go after her dreams by working on scrapbooks to hold the memories they’ve made, and even recording Shannon’s music and plays she has written over the years.

This match started creating a bond seven years ago that cannot be broken.  Together, they have accomplished what Big Brothers Big Sisters envisions for all mentoring relationships.  One such achievement was celebrated this past month: Shannon’s high school graduation.  Shannon has made great strides in her academic performance and was all smiles receiving her diploma.  From the crowd, you could see her Big Sister, Sherry, beaming as her Little Sister walked across the stage.

Today, Shannon has dreams to become a music therapist and plans to attend Hawkeye Community College in the near future.  Shannon and Sherry’s involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters has officially come to an end, an end that Shannon describes as “bittersweet.”  Program Director, Katie Klein, agrees, “This moment is bittersweet but the absolute best way for it to end.  We will cherish the achievements of this relationship and will sit back and watch Little Sister, Shannon, soar.”



June Anniversaries

CONGRATS to the following matches reaching their anniversary during the month of June:

One Year:
McKenzie Bruch and Haylee
Adam Eich and Martez
Brianna Matthias and Starr
Lindsey McCoy and Sierra
Dana McDougall and De'Vontay
Irina Moye and Dauje
Lindsey Petersen and Zoe
Amber Smit and Mylee

Two Years:
Erin Meeker and Aliyah
Jonathan Wangler and Kelondis

Three Years:
Dave Kane and Elliott

Four Years:
Christy & Dietrich Tice and Joseph

Match Spotlight: Adam and Martez

Adam and Martez have been matched since June, 2012.  They meet every Thursday and do a variety of different activities during their time together, from ice skating to running errands.  Believe it or not, one of Martez’s favorite visits was when he and Adam went to Menards together!

Martez's mother suffers from illness and limited mobility which prevents her from doing many activities so she wanted Martez to become involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters so that he could experience new activities in the community and have a positive male role model to spend 1 to 1 time with and do "boy things."  Martez's mother has been very pleased with this match.  She reports that Martez has become more polite and benefits from getting to spend alone time away from his siblings.

Adam became involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters as he is aware of the need for mentors in the area.  When asked how he feels about his match Adam stated, “I enjoy it; he is a great kid to be around.”  Adam’s favorite part of being matched is watching Martez light up when he receives praise and accomplishes small victories.

Adam and Martez are an excellent example of what Big Brothers Big Sisters is all about. They have created a friendship through consistent visits and fun, yet simple, activities that will last years!

Wordless Wednesday: End of the School Year Party (Bremer County Matches)

Thank you to the Waverly Community Fund for making this year's party a success!

April Showers WILL Bring May Flowers!

Spring is in the air (at least we hope) so it's time to get outside and get active with your Little.  To help you along, we've added a list of spring & summer activities for you to enjoy!

1.   Walk the trails
2.   Get an ice cream cone
3.   Wash your car
4.   Plant a garden or flowers
5.   Go to city parades, concerts, and other events
6.   Watch a movie outdoors during Cedar Falls' "Movies Under the Moon"
7.   Participate in the SCHEELS Run/Walk Club
8.   Make bubbles
9.   Fly a kite
10.  Go fishing
11.  Rollerblade
12.  Check out all the different parks
13.  Have a picnic
14.  Attend your Little's baseball, softball or other summer games
15.  Visit the library on a rainy day
16.  Explore the nature trails at Hartman Reserve
17.  Visit the Arboretum
18.  Mini golf - stay tuned for more information on Big Brothers Big Sisters Mini Golf
          Madness tournament
19.  Visit a Farmer's Market and introduce new fruits and vegetables to your Little
20.  Play catch
21.  Make your own smoothies or popsicles
22.  Read under a tree
23.  Get creative and paint rocks, draw with sidewalk chalk or visit Pursuing Picasso
           and paint pottery  (remember to use your Big Card for a discount)
24.  Build a birdhouse, Lego creations, boats to race, sand castles and forts
25.  Volunteer
26.  Visit the museums
27.  Jump rope
28.  Have a lemonade stand
29.  Roast hog dogs or marshmallows
30.  Visit the Sunrise Petting Zoo in Waterloo
31.  Go swimming
32.  Feed the birds and ducks at a pond or lake
33.  Look at the clouds and pick out different shapes
34.  Go to a Buck's baseball game
35.  Ride go-carts at Palmer's-Golf-Food-Fun  (use your Big Card for a discount)
36.  Paint your nails
37.  Hula hoop
38.  Catch butterflies and insects
39.  Go to a fireworks show
40.  Visit the Resource Room at Big Brothers Big Sisters and check out the following items to use:

• Sidewalk chalk
• Basketballs, soccer balls, volleyballs, footballs, kickballs, baseballs
• Wiffle bat and ball
• Tennis rackets and tennis balls
• Ladder Golf
• Frisbees
• Board games
• Paint & craft materials
• Hula hoops

April Matches and May Anniversaries

Big Brothers Big Sisters would like to WELCOME the following new matches made in April:

Amanda Borglum and David
Kendra Giardino and Ahlivia
Erica Jacobsen and Andri'onna
Pam Pringle and Selena
DiAndra Strelow and Lauryn
Cassie Upshaw and Maria


CONGRATS to the following matches reaching their anniversary during the month of May:

One Year:
Alyssa Bodecker and Maddy


Two Years:
Dave Condon and Amari
Patty Hoffa and Tanner
Steve Kingsley and Jeremiah
Abbie Smith and Bobbie

Wordless Wednesday: End of the School Year Party (Black Hawk Matches)

Matches celebrated the "End of the School Year" with a party this past weekend at Byrnes Park.  Sunny weather provided the perfect setting for lawn games, sand volleyball, kickball and some time on the playground!