A regional mentoring program arrives in Kern County
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California is expanding into Kern County, creating new opportunities for local children to develop consistent relationships with adult mentors.
The nonprofit currently operates in Fresno, Kings, Madera and Tulare counties. Its Kern County expansion will serve children and teenagers between the ages of 6 and 18.
Participants are matched with adult volunteers who provide encouragement, companionship and exposure to experiences outside a child’s immediate neighborhood or circumstances.
Read the source: 23ABC: Big Brothers Big Sisters expands into Kern County ↗
Safety and consistency are central to the program
The organization also operates a Lunch Buddy program through which volunteers meet with children at elementary schools once a week.
Volunteers undergo fingerprinting, interviews and screening beyond a basic background check. Match-support specialists continue checking on the child, family and volunteer after the relationship begins.
That continuing supervision is important. Mentoring is most effective when relationships are safe, stable and sustained rather than brief or unpredictable.
Read the source: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California ↗
The expansion needs volunteers and business partners
The nonprofit is recruiting individuals and Kern County businesses willing to support the program. Employers could help by encouraging workers to volunteer, sponsoring activities or providing career-exploration opportunities.
Mentorship does not replace parents, teachers or relatives. It adds another dependable adult who can listen, introduce possibilities and help a child navigate challenges.
Kern County’s size will make recruitment difficult, particularly in rural communities. Broad participation will be necessary if children outside central Bakersfield are to receive equal access.