🌟 𝐕𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐭𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭! 🌟
As celebrate and recognize National Volunteer Week (as we like to call it, Volunteer Appreciation Week), we are recognizing various volunteers at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oxford County and shining a spotlight on the work they are doing to make a BIG impact in the lives of young people and our community, as well as highlight what encouraged them to volunteer with BBBSOC!
We are so grateful to have phenomenal volunteers like Patty Wettlaufer! Patty has been a mentor, a Board Member, an event volunteer and participant, and an all-around dedicated friend and supporter of BBBSOC for many years.
We asked Patty if she could answer a few questions for us about being a mentor and board member:
Why did you get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters as a Board Member?
Getting involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters was an easy decision for me. I was very fortunate to have had an incredible childhood filled with love and constant support and my parents also made sure I was given every opportunity to succeed in life. As I grew older I realized that not everyone was as lucky as I was. This resonated with me and led me to become a Big Sister. Many young people could flourish and thrive in our community, with just the help of another positive influence in their lives. I hoped that I could help a young person realize their potential, take that potential, and soar!
I joined the BBBSOC board after becoming a Big Sister as it was the next logical step. This board believes and is dedicated to ensuring that all youth involved with BBBSOC are provided with opportunities that will encourage them to reach their full potential in a healthy and safe environment.
What have been some of the highlights, memorable moments, or impactful experiences you’ve had in your time with BBBS?
I had several memorable moments with my Little (mentee) over the seven years we were matched. It’s difficult to pick a favourite, there were so many great times… from our Christmas tradition of baking cookies, making gingerbread houses, and wrapping presents, to teaching her how to swim in the summer and skate in the winter, to giggling at the movies or mastering the high ropes at The Factory, all were amazing! Perhaps the most impactful moments were seeing her so excited to see me at the door to pick her up for our outings when she told me that she knew I would never let her down and finally hugged me.
What would you say to others to encourage them to get involved with BBBS, as a Board Member and/or mentor?
I have found that people are hesitant to become mentors because they are concerned about the time commitment. To this, I reply that yes, three to four hours a week can seem like a lot, but as your relationship strengthens and grows you will find yourself not only looking forward to the time you spend together, but wanting more. The benefits of being a mentor are not one-sided. As a mentor, you will find your fulfillment and joy as you become more than just a Mentor / Mentee and witness the growth and increased self-confidence of your mentee. It truly is an incredible and memorable experience.
Thank you Patty for the many years of mentorship and dedication you have given to BBBSOC! We are beyond grateful and so fortunate to have your friendship, loyalty, and support!
