Being a mentor to our youth is a great way to give back

What is the Little Brother/Little Sister Program?

The Little Brother/Little Sister Program is based on the concept that young people can benefit from having the influence of a consistent, positive, role model in their life. This program helps youth between the ages of 4 and 14 in meeting a youth’s need for acceptance, understanding and positive guidance. The mentor and their “Little” get together at least once a month and participate in fun activities that enable the child to have a relationship with a role model who helps them build their self-esteem, expand their horizons and enrich their future. Free group activities are offered to program participants as well.

How is a match made?

Mentors are matched to meet the individual needs of the child. The matching of youth and mentor is made on the basis of location, personalities, interests, and the ability of the mentor to meet any particular needs which the youth may be experiences. All volunteer mentors receive a background check and provide three character reference referrals. You need to commit to spending four hours a month with your Little.

How do I enroll my child?

To enroll your child in the program, the parent/guardian would request and fill out the youth enrollment packet which helps to know more about the likes and dislikes of your child, what their hobbies are and any needs they might have. This information will help make the right match for your child. The program coordinator can answer any of your questions and help you decide if this program is a good fit for your family. Referrals can also come in from schools, grandparents, social services and law enforcement.

What kinds of activities can you do together?

There are free group activities provided by the program every other month that include mini golf, pool parties and movie nights. You are also encouraged to find other cost free activities in your area such as local sporting events, church events, going to the park, help with homework, ice skating, etc.

There are currently Little Brothers/Little Sisters waiting to be matched with mentors. Please contact your county Little Brother/Little Sister Coordinator today: 

Kittson, Roseau and Lake of the Woods County LBLS Coordinator: Madeline Waage at 218-528-3258 / Email: mwaage@nwcaa.org

Marshall County LBLS Coordinator: Stacey Urbaniak at 218-745-5124 / Email: stacey.urbaniak@co.marshall.mn.us

Pennington County LBLS Coordinator: CharLee Mathieu at 218-689-9471 / Email: lbls.pennington@gmail.com

A recent Little Brother/Little Sister Program event

Despite the snow last week, there was a great turnout for the Little Brother/Little Sister Archery Event! Program participants from Pennington County, Marshall County and Kittson County came together to enjoy an evening of archery indoors. With the expert assistance of Dana Klos and Gracie Hannon, the participants were able to learn just how to hold their bow to get their aim on the bull’s eye. It was a wonderful opportunity for mentors to come together with their “Little” to give archery a shot and enjoy the company of others in the program. The support of the community for the Little Brother/Little Sister Program is very much appreciated! Domino’s Pizza was generous with their donation of pizza for all to eat. The event wouldn’t have been possible without the use of the Thief River Falls Archery Club and the assistance of the award winning Dana Klos and state champion Gracie Hannon to help assist with the skill of archery. They were both so very with patient in guiding everyone closer to the target! 

To learn more about the Little Brother/Little Sister Program or to enroll your child, please call your county coordinator above.