Big Brothers Big Sisters of Manitowoc County has named Big Sister Kendra Hammel and Little Brother Connor as its match of the month for September. Each month, the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization selects a “match” for this recognition. The award is given in honor of the commitment the volunteer and child have made to each other and to the organization in developing a special friendship. To celebrate, Kendra and Connor were treated to free sandwiches courtesy of Subway.
Kendra and Connor were matched in 2017 and have since developed a wonderful relationship. They were matched as part of the school-based program and partnership with the Valders School District. The Valders school-based program matches high school student “Bigs” with elementary or middle school student “Littles”. They spend one lunch hour a week together playing games, reading, or just sharing a story. The program in Valders has been a huge success thanks to the support of the school staff and students. Our favorite thing to see is that when former “Littles” are old enough, they sign up to be a “Big” because of the experience they had as a “Little.”
Connor is a 4th grader at Valders Elementary School and he enjoys reading, gym class, playing basketball and video games. Connor said that his favorite thing about being a “Little Brother” is getting to see Kendra, getting to have fun and play together, and having someone to talk to. Because of his time with Kendra, Connor said he has become more confident and social. Some of his favorite activities to do with Kendra include playing games on the computer, playing basketball, or just talking.
Kendra is a senior at Valders High School and has been a “Big Sister” since her sophomore year. She is also involved with 13 different clubs, is a three sport athlete, and maintains her status on the high honor roll. She also has a job on the weekends feeding calves. Kendra became involved with BBBS because she wanted to make a difference in a child’s life and feels that every child deserves to have a good role model.
Kendra and Connor want to encourage others to get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters. They both have grown from participating in the organization and are making a positive impact on one another and the community. There is a thorough process to make sure you get matched with Big/Little who seems like a good fit for your personality and who you could foster a meaningful relationship with as Kendra and Connor have. It only takes an hour a week to make the kind of impact on a child that Kendra has had on Connor. If you would like to learn more or get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters, contact the Manitowoc agency at bbbs@bbbsmantycounty.org or by calling 920-684-7445.
