(INDIANAPOLIS) – Big Brothers Big Sisters kicks off its 150 Men in 50 Days campaign Saturday in an effort to recruit more male mentors.
When the Indians throw the first pitch on Saturday, April 13, at 7:30 p.m. against the Charlotte Knights, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana will officially kick-off their “150 Men in 50 Days” male recruitment campaign.
The goal is to recruit 150 adult male volunteers in 50 days and raise awareness of the importance of mentoring. The campaign begins Saturday and ends on June 1.
The Indianapolis Indians are serving as the Presenting Partner for the campaign and will offer Knot Hole Club memberships to Bigs and Littles matched as a result of the campaign, as well as make special appearances at BBBSCI events during the campaign.
Seventy percent of the children waiting to be matched with Bigs are boys. The average wait time for boys waiting to be matched is about one year due to the lack of male volunteers. The campaign is aimed at involving individuals and organizations of all kinds to engage with BBBSCI and the Indians. Through various community events, social events, and awareness opportunities, the BBBSCI staff, current volunteers, Board of Directors, and campaign ambassadors are pounding the pavement to engage men as Big Brothers, Big Couples, and Big Friend pairs.
“The Indianapolis Indians are fully invested in making our community the strongest it can be, and we know that our community is at its best when we are fully invested in the potential of our youth,” Darcey Palmer-Shultz, BBBSCI Chief Executive Officer said. “We’re thankful to partner with the Indianapolis Indians for the fourth year in a row to recruit more men to serve as mentors. We have so many kids who have asked for someone to encourage and guide them, and we want to make sure they get that opportunity.”
“The Indianapolis Indians are proud to once again partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana,” said Randy Lewandowski, Indianapolis Indians president, and general manager. “The success of the campaign in previous years has been exciting, but we know there is still work ahead of us to continue recruiting matches for the ones who need it most–the youth of our community. We’re thrilled to shine another light on this important campaign.”
Companies and individuals who are interested in getting involved with BBBSCI are encouraged to contact Rick Belbutoski, Corporate Volunteer Outreach and Engagement Coordinator, at: rbelbutoski@bbbsci.org or call 317-472-3720 or visit the website at www.bebigforkids.org/volunteer.
