BBB announces newest volunteers

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County is pleased to announce the newest volunteers in the core mentoring program. 

Ashley Wilt, of Minster, is eager to do something for the community and chose to volunteer as a mentor Big Brother because of the need for positive role models.  Ashley admires the curiosity and creativity in children, and says, “I like it that they are open to be taught.”  He wants his new Little Brother to feel he has a friend and to maintain positive memories of their experiences.  Ashley is a PGA Professional who enjoys being outside playing golf, playing tennis, and riding bikes.  He looks forward to sharing his time and interests, as well as bowling and playing X-Box and Nintendo games, with his new friend as they develop their relationship. 

Steve Svelund, of Sidney, is a college student who wants to offer support to a vulnerable child.  He enjoys running, bowling, playing darts, hiking, fishing, and boating.  Steve likes that children are active and have an imagination.  As the weather warms, Steve looks forward to becoming a friend to his new Little Brother as they spend time enjoying outdoor activities together. 

Kristy Warren, of Piqua, covers a three-county area in her employment with AmeriCorps, where she works to develop employability and job readiness skills in at-risk youth.  Her experience helping teenage girls in South Africa through the Peace Corps, led her to volunteer at Big Brothers Big Sisters.  Kristy has seen the positive impact of mentoring, and wants to continue that mission to “make a difference.”  She enjoys yoga, reading, traveling, volunteering, and attending concerts.  

Cheri Allison lives on a small farm near Sidney.  She enjoys tending the farm animals, camping, swimming, reading, shopping, and eating out.  Cheri is a Parents Night Out volunteer at Shelby Hills.  She loves children and decided to become a Big Sister volunteer for an opportunity to enjoy activities with a child, in addition to her 12 year old son.  Cher looks forward to enjoying outside activities with her newly assigned Little Brother. 

Justin Nance, of Sidney, enjoys working with children at his job as a pediatric dental hygienist.  He has found new interest and friendships in photography.  Justin has two horses he enjoys riding, and also spends time camping, fishing, and watching OSU football.  Being a ‘big kid’ himself, Justin looks forward to having fun and developing a relationship with his new Little Brother as they share interests and activities. 

Carolyn Johnston lives in Sidney and is active in the community at church, Relay for Life, and Chamber Leadership training.  She enjoys being with people and working as a team.  Her hobbies include reading and walking.  Because she likes children, she has taught Jr. Achievement programs and Sunday School and helped with the Ohio Reads program.  Carol now wants to be a mentor to an at-risk youth in the community.  She looks forward to making a positive impression on a child.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Shelby & Darke County is a non-profit United Way Member Agency, Lisa Brown, Executive Director. The program specializes in mentoring children from “at-risk’ families with adult volunteer Big Brothers and Sisters. These adults provide children with positive role modeling, as well as new educational and social activities. If you would like to become a volunteer and put a little magic in the life of a child please call the BBBS office at 492-7611 or 547-9622.