Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana Partners with the Indianapolis Indians to Find 100 Men in 50 Days

INDIANAPOLIS - Earlier today, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana (BBBSCI) kicked off its annual 100 Men in 50 Days campaign with a ceremony hosted by the Indianapolis Indians at Victory Field. The Tribe "signed" four Littles currently in the program as honorable members of the Indians and presented them jerseys for tonight's MARVEL Super Hero Night feat. Black Panther. Tonight the team is wearing the same jerseys, which will be auctioned off to benefit BBBSCI.

For the third year in a row, BBBSCI is partnering with the Indians in the effort to recruit 100 adult male volunteers in 50 days and raise awareness of the importance of mentoring. The campaign begins today and ends on June 9, 2018. This yearly campaign was launched by BBBSCI in 2014 to meet the overwhelming need for male mentors. 
Nearly 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 participate or spread the word about the importance of mentoring. Through a wide range of community speaking events, social events, and awareness opportunities, the BBBSCI staff, current volunteers, Board of Directors, and campaign ambassadors will be pounding the pavement to engage men as Big Brothers, Big Couples, and Big Friend pairs.
"The Indianapolis Indians are truly invested in helping our community thrive," Darcey Palmer-Shultz, BBBSCI Chief Executive Officer, shared. "We're excited to partner with them for the third year to meet our shared goal of finding more male volunteers to mentor boys in our community. Mentoring has big benefits for not only the kids we serve, but also our community, and we're grateful for the Indians' support of our mission."
"Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana has an important mission," said Randy Lewandowski, Indianapolis Indians president and general manager. "Many of us have mentors and others we look up to, but not everyone is fortunate to have such an influence in their lives. It's important for our community to recognize the needs of our youth and do something to help when it's needed."
Individuals interested in getting involved are encouraged to visit www.bebigforkids.org/volunteer.