MARSHFIELD (WAOW) -
Lee Schaefer has volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters
four about 7 years.
"I do like children because of the things they come up with.
You know, your life is never dull when you've got a child around, believe me,"
said Schaefer.
Even though the mentoring program has loyal volunteers,
leaders say it isn't enough.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Wood County has seen an
increasing number of children, and now, they need help.
"It's difficult, and we have talked a few of our Bigs right
now into taking 2 children," said Lisa Larson, Wood County Big Brothers Big
Sisters Executive Director.
Officials say they have 75 children currently waiting to be
matched with a Big, and that's caused the staff to have to pick up some of the
slack.
Larson says it's important to let those children know
someone is there for them.
Mentors and children are matched based on similar interests.
Leaders say sometimes all the children need is someone to
talk to.
"I think they like the idea of somebody else caring for
them, you know, and somebody who listens to them," said Schaefer.
His little brother, Austin Reid, 13, agrees.
"You can tell them if there's something stressing you out,
and it works, and it gives you something to relax about so you don't have all
the weight on your shoulders," said Reid.
And the program isn't just important to the kids. The
mentors get a lot out of it as well.
"Your life is fulfilled more, you know, like you've got a
purpose in life. You know, I mean, you can make somebody happy," said Schaefer.
And leaders say they hope people will take on a small
commitment to make a big difference.
For more information on how to get involved, visit http://www.bbbswood.org/programs/programs.php.
