January 2009 Newsletter

September 2008 Newsletter

June 2008 Newsletter  

March 2008 Newsletter  

January 2009

A message from our CEO 

2008 was a wonderfully successful year for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region.  We served 1120 children in 2008 and continue to be an agency making an impact in the community.  Of those 1120 children matched in our program in 2008, none entered into the juvenile justice system or drug and alcohol placement and all the seniors that were matched with a big, graduated from high school.  That is a huge accomplishment and affects our communities exponentially.  Thank you for your part in that success!
 
As we move into 2009, we kicked off January as National Mentoring month.  President Barack Obama has issued several calls to service during the past four months.   "This country is great because of its people. And when all of our people are engaged and involved in making the community better ... we can accomplish anything,"... "I will ask all Americans to make a renewed commitment to serving their community and their country,"... "Dr. Martin Luther King's was a life lived in loving service to others. As we honor that legacy, it's not a day just to pause and reflect - it's a day to act."  We have received several phone calls from local community members asking how to become a Big Brother or Sister based on President Obama's call to service.  Regardless of your political affiliation, we can all agree that volunteering in our local communities has an impact on the quality of life for us all and volunteering to mentor a child can impact everything from one life, to the lives of a whole family, to a local school, and then to the juvenile justice system.  We can and do make a difference...Thank you for being part of Big Brothers Big Sisters! 

Save the Date!
 
The Steve Keys Classic: 
Golf For Kids' Sake
benefitting:  Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region

Wednesday, September 30, 2009  
Blue Ridge Country Club, Harrisburg

Bowl For Kids' Sake is Big Brothers Big Sisters' biggest fundraising event of the year and it is how we raise a great deal of support for the mentoring programs and services we provide each year.

So are you ready to have some fun?  All we ask is that participants raise a minimum of $80 each to participate.  This may sound like a lot, but you would be amazed at how quickly a few dollars here and there adds up.

Once your fundraising is done, then you and your "team" come and enjoy the bowling celebration!

Get together with a group of friends and family, or get a group of your co-workers together for some interoffice competition!

READY TO BEGIN ? Great ! It is as simple as 1,2,3

1. Teamwork is the key - Find a team - start one of your own, join someone else's team, or pass this info on to someone you know who can help support Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl For Kids' Sake.

2. Together pick a date and time for the team to bowl (see dates listed below).  Next they contact BBBS either by calling Jill at 717-236-0199 or emailing her at This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it to reserve a date and and bowling lane for the team.

3. Start the fundraising - either online at www.capbigs2009.kintera.org or by downloading the pledge sheet on capbigs.org.  Bowlers are asked to raise at least $80 in order to participate, and by raising $100 you earn a "Happy Kid" t-shirt too.  All teams are provided with the chance to come have fun, enjoy two games of bowling, free shoe rental, pizza, snacks and drinks, plus lots of laughs.

This year our goal is to raise $250,000.  We know it's a BIG goal, but we also know that with help from you and others, we'll get there - one team and one bowler at a time!

Call TODAY to reserve your lanes, bowl for free & enjoy free pizza and drinks!

Big Brother, Brendan O'Neill was matched with his Little brother J.T. in our Community Based program on October 2, 2008.  We asked Brendan to talk a bit about his experience as a Big Brother so far.  The following is a few of Brendan's thoughts on his BBBS experience....
 
"When I first walked into BBBS office there were two boys playing on the floor being a little reckless and I immediately felt myself getting uncomfortable.  After I realized I was doing this I began to question my readiness to do this.  The lower age barrier is twenty, which is my age, so I really began to worry about what I got myself into. But J.T. is such a sweet kid that I have no problems to deal with that you might expect from an 11 year old.  His politeness exceeds my own.  Every time I pick him up at his house, he and his twin sister, Brittany, exchange "I love yous.  This gives an idea of how much a good kid he is."

"J.T. is injured right now and it is not nice outside, so our activities have been limited a little bit because we both take enjoyment out of being outdoors.  I went to grade school pretty close to J.T.'s house.  I mention this because the park that recess was held in is the place where J.T. and his friends play.  I thought that was pretty neat.  We have played basketball a few times and I hope he doesn't grow anymore because I don't know if my ego can take losing to an 11 year old.
Our match works because J.T. is an even-tempered, smart kid.  We also are able to relate to each other because I grew up in this city just as he is doing right now.  The fact that we are both fraternal twins is a very good point to connect on.  It is unique relationship having a sibling in the same grade and I can relate to the dynamic that he and his sister share. 
I have a brother in the Peace Corps, and he keeps repeating the fact that he gets more out of it than the people he's helping.  Although my experience with BBBS can't really be compared with teaching South Eastern Africans about AIDS prevention I do have the same feelings.  This might sound a little selfish but there is no way J.T. enjoys our relationship more than I do.  BBBS is an absolutely great program!"
 
And we think that Brendan and J.T. are a great match!

School based mentoring is off and running!  We have mentors in over 20 elementary and middle schools this year throughout the four county area. Our high school partners have been meeting with their Littles as well. Two new corporate partners, UPS and PSECU have joined the ranks of companies with staff enjoying some time at lunch with their Littles. Our corporate partners continue to spread the word about the fun they are having, by talking with their co-workers, which results in more individuals becoming involved. 
 
One of our school based "Littles", a fourth grader, received a gift of $100.00 from his grandmother for Christmas. When they went to the mall together to see what he was going to use it for, his grandmother was surprised when instead of heading for the video games, Little Brother went to the clothing department of another store. There he used his Christmas money to buy some crew neck sweaters, button down shirts and a couple of nice pairs of slacks. Somewhat alarmed, grandmother called Little Brother's mother to find out what was going on. "Are some of the kids making fun of what he wears? I thought most all the kids wore jeans and t-shirts!"  Mother was able to set her mind at ease - and thoroughly make our day - when her answer was: "It's not that at all. On Wednesdays, his Big Brother from UPS comes to see him, and he wants to dress like his Big Brother does." 

Big Brothers Big Sisters is looking for more than a few good men:
 
A few weeks ago, a delightful 11 year old perspective Little brother came in to the office to "get signed up for a Big Brother". In talking with him, he was able to articulate the need out there among too many of our community's male children in a very eloquent fashion. In the front office, while his mother was in for her part of the interview, we spoke a bit about why he to be involved. Here's what he said:
 
"I live with my mother, my sister, my aunt, my cousin who's a girl, and my one boy cousin, but he's only 1 and not any fun yet. My Grandmother and my other aunt live around the corner. Nobody but me in my family thinks snakes and lizards are cool. I have a girl teacher, a girl principal, a girl school nurse, a girl crossing guard, a girl Sunday School teacher, a girl  I stay with after school and all the people in the cafeteria that help you with your lunch are girls. I just want somebody to show me how to throw a spiral football."
 
Mentoring is about having fun, liking some of the same things and enjoying some of the same activities --- as well as learning about some new ones. Keep us in mind, and please help spread the word.

Shanon Watts was seven years old when she was matched with her Big Sister, Larissa York.  Eleven years later Shanon has now graduated from Harrisburg High School, going to college, and still matched with Larissa.  Shanon was the winner of Big Brothers Big Sisters' Elliot Riegler Scholarship.  She sent us this letter of thanks:
 
"Dear Big Brothers Big Sisters,
 
I am writing to thank you for your generous $1,000 scholarship.  I was very appreciative to learn that I was selected as the recipient of your scholarship.
 
I am a freshman at Clarion University pursuing a degree in Business Administration and adjusting well to college life.  I am very serious about my education and plan on making my college years very memorable, by applying myself to be my best.  By awarding me this scholarship, you have lightened my financial burden and contributed to my future.  Big Brother Big Sister has also contributed to my future by matching me with a wonderful Big Sister, thank you so much for your generosity and support.
 
I promise you I will work very hard and hope one day I will be able to help students achieve their goals just as you have helped me. I also have plans in my future to give back to my community and becoming a Big Sister. 
 
Sincerely,
Shanon Watts
Harrisburg, Pa"

New Community based matches have been made - Congratulations to the following Bigs and Littles who have become new matches since September 1, 2008. 

Little                   Big

Adrianna             Breanna
Christian            Dave and Lorie
Keara                Terri
Shandale            Elaine
Tatiana               Niki
Yoshira              Julie
Asia                   Desiree
JT                      Brendan
Bryce                Kanyon
Branda              Kristen
Mishadai           Jennifer
Tyla                  Lori
Aaliyah             Anna
Aeris                Stephanie 
Xander             Lance
Sean                 Phillip
Roderick II       Tara
Jonathan           Justin
Shula                Diana
Kwashay          Carly
Keyuon            Julie
Daniel              John
Acacia             Julie
Brianna            Dianel
Austin              Barry
Melanie           Stephanie
Ijala’                Kelli
Emily               Stephanie
Destiny            Kate
Savanah          Kristine
Austin              John and Melissa
Joey                Jacob
Alexus            Nsenga
Miahl              Stephen
 

* You may also deduct the cost of meals, movie tickets, museum admissions, etc. which you spend for the Little. However, you cannot deduct the costs you incur for your own meals, tickets. etc.
While BBBSA encourages quality time rather than money spent on the Little to be most important in the relationship, we trust that you will find the above information useful.

Fall and winter have been busy times for us here at Big Brothers Big Sisters.  We enjoyed the Harrisburg Holiday parade where Bigs and Littles participated in wrangling the big nutcracker balloon through the parade route; we came together for our Holiday Season Kick-Off Party where we danced to the music of DJ Joe George and created crafts under the direction of students at Shippensburg University.  We saw the Lipizzaner Stallions and the Disney on Ice-Fairy Princesses; we saw Hershey Bears hockey games and even took a behind-the-scenes tour of the Giant center and player locker room. 
 
We are very lucky to receive donations of tickets to many wonderful events here in the Harrisburg area; be sure to keep checking your email for updates on new opportunities.  Also, remember to check the list of community web sites to find additional activities. 

PA Farm Show Complex
            Ongoing: Harrisburg Stampede Indoor Football
            2/7-2/15: Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show
            2/21-2/22: Motorama Races and Shows
            2/26-3/1: PA Horse World Expo
            2/28-3/8-PA Home Show
            3/12-3:15-PA Garden Expo
            3/14-3/15-PAWS Ability
Whitaker Center
            Harsco Science Center: How People Make Things
            Harsco Science Center and IMAX: Free admission President’s Day
Hershey Park
            Weekends in winter: Ice Skating at Hershey Arena
            Ongoing: Hershey Bears Hockey Games
Check out the local newspaper or keep an eye out for signs advertising an activity.  My lists are never 100% complete as flea markets, and festivals are announced all the time.  I would also recommend a couple websites for those who have the time to check out and look over the events sections.
http://www.visithhc.com/
http://www.spotobe.com/
http://www.harrisburgevents.com/
http://www.pa-events.com/Kids+and+Family/index.shtml
http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/fscomplex/site/default.asp
www.lebanonchamber.com/
www.hersheypa.com

September 2008

A message from our CEO

Summer is wrapping up and before we can even take a breather from our summer activities and reflect on all the was accomplished…we are busy ramping up to go back into the schools with our School Based Mentors, hold our Annual Golf For Kids Sake Celebration, host our first Mentoring Children of Prisoners Symposium, organize our Annual Appeal Campaign/Breakfast, recruit volunteers to march in the city’s Holiday parade and plan our end of year holiday parties.  We have much to do and we hope you can be part of our activities in the upcoming months! 

We do want to reflect on all the wonderful things that took place in the last couple of months and the articles in this issue will give you some insight into what we were up over the summer.  But on a sad note, we lost two wonderfully energetic and long term Bigs in recent months.  The time they spent with their Littles will never be forgotten and they truly changed a child’s life. We’ve talked about each of their matches and experience in this issue and hope it gives some insight into how they helped bring a “Little Magic” into a child’s life.

Sincerely,
Maddie Young

Destination Downtown

Big Brothers Big Sisters would like to thank all of our supporters who joined us on August 21 for Destination Downtown.  Participants enjoyed an evening of great food, drinks, and entertainment at numerous restaurants in downtown Harrisburg.  A special thanks as well to all of the participating restaurants, Cruise Control and Gunn-Mowery Insurance for helping make Destination Downtown a fabulous event.  Everyone involved played an important role in helping Big Brothers Big Sisters raise money to support our matches. 

Brighter Futures: A Symposium addressing the needs of children with an Incarcerated Parent.

Did you know? Almost 2 million children in our nation have at least one parent who is incarcerated ... 3000 of those children currently live in our area of Central Pennsylvania.
Can you image what it feels like to watch a police officer arrest your parent and take you to a neighbor's house without any of your belongings or your supplies for school the next day?
How would you act if you didn't know where your parent was going, if they were safe, or when you would get to see them again?  These are some of the real life concerns of a child whose parent is incarcerated. 

On October 7th, at the Holiday Inn East Big Brothers Big Sisters is hosting a one-day symposium to learn more about the unique needs of children who have a parent behind bars. Our goal for the day is to become more educated about the issues these kids face.  We plan to develop strategies to facilitate intervention and a proactive response to the needs of these children. 

The Symposium will include a presentation called "Cracking the Cultural Code," based on the works of Ruby K. Payne and presented by Vladimir Beaufils, founder of Scientifically Sound Youth Solutions.  The session will explore the economic differences among us that affect our understanding and perceptions of one another.
A keynote address by The Reverend Dr. Wilson Goode, former mayor of Philadelphia and current director of the nationally acclaimed Amachi program, a faith based mentoring model for children of incarcerated parents.

Funding provided by a Mentoring Children of Prisoners Grant through the Department of Health and Human Services.

Golf Fore Kids’ Sake

Please join Big Brothers Big Sisters September 26, 2008 for our 11th annual Golf Fore Kids' Sake and Awards Reception at Blue Ridge Country Club, brought to you by this year’s title sponsor, The Hollinger Group.

You can choose to attend just the reception, just golf, or join us for both events.  Begin the day with the option of an 8:00 am or 1:00 PM shotgun start.  Lunch will be provided, and hors d'oeuvres will be served on the course. 

We will follow the day of golf with an awards reception.  The awards reception starts at 6:00 PM with hors d'oeuvres and stations throughout the evening.  The reception will include live entertainment, cocktails and a silent auction.  New to the event this year, we will be holding live auctions for a few of the most coveted auction items.  Be sure not to miss your chance for a week at the beach, some fabulous new jewelry, and so much more!

Contact Big Brothers Big Sisters at 236-0199 ext 231 or dkruger@capbigs for ticket and sponsorship information.  We hope to see you there!

On Wednesday, October 1, your local Pizza Hut is offering BIG rewards to Big Brothers Big Sisters.   Order your favorite pizza, snacks and sodas at any of the Pizza Hut locations listed below and 20% of your total will go directly to Big Brothers Big Sisters.  This offer only lasts one day, so plan a pizza night with your friends and family on Wednesday, October 1 and help support our mentoring programs.  

This offer is valid at any Pizza Hut restaurant in:

Camp Hill
Elizabethtown
Harrisburg
Hummelstown
Lebanon
Middletown
Palmyra
Mechanicsburg
New Cumberland

Please note* You must have a coupon ready when placing your order.  Print out your Pizza Hut Coupon

Community Based Corner

The phrase “lazy days of summer” certainly does not apply to the Bigs, Littles, and staff of BBBS!  As school begins and we look back on the summer that flew by so quickly, I fondly remember the many activities and events that so many of us attended over past three months.

• Picnics and Parties-Lebanon County, Harrisburg area and Cumberland County programs all celebrated the outdoors with potluck picnics, games and a pool party!  A wonderful opportunity to enjoy the weather and get to meet some of the other people involved in BBBS!
• Philadelphia Phillies v. the Atlanta Braves-Citizens Bank donated 50 tickets to the July 26th game.  Before the game, fans were able to go onto the field for photos and autographs with the players, too!  (The Phils won 10-9!)
• American Music Fest and Kipona-An opportunity to volunteer and help BBBS by selling soda at the festival tents. 
• Disc Golf Outing-We love when volunteers share their hobbies!  A very generous Big Brother offered to host a number of matches to learn one of his favorite sports.  We encourage everyone to consider sharing your hobbies and knowledge with others; it’s a great way to share the fun of being a Big!
• Girl Scout events-You didn’t need to be a girl or a scout to attend the three events hosted by our friends at the Girl Scouts.  Bingo night, Board game night and a Movie & Ice cream Social, three free events for everyone to enjoy!
• Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire-Sponsors of the annual RenFaire donated tickets to our matches, a very popular event!
• Over 30 Homerun Derby-Harrisburg area baseball leagues invited our Littles to help out during their homerun derby, retrieving balls and hanging out with players at Commerce Bank Park.  Not only did the “big hitters” share their day but they even donated proceeds from the event to BBBS!  (And it didn’t rain until the 9th inning!)
• Ticket Donations!  Very often we are notified of ticket donations from generous friends of BBBS.  We have been given tickets to the Harrisburg Senators, Baltimore Orioles, Baltimore Ravens, and the Big 33 Game, for example.  These smaller donations usually come with very short notice, but if you are interested in being notified of these donations let your match support staff person know!
• Graduation Celebration-One of our happiest events comes as we congratulate our graduating seniors, their families and their Bigs at our June Board of Directors meeting.  We couldn’t be more proud of their accomplishments!

As the days grow shorter and the weather a bit cooler, the BBBS family doesn’t slow down!  Be looking for upcoming events shared with you by your match support staff member, agency emails or other special announcements.  As you can tell by our summer list of events our interests are as varied as our program participants, so if you have an idea, a hobby or special interest that you’d like to share to benefit BBBS and our matches, let us know!  And remember, it’s important that we have your correct contact info at all times in order to help you share in the fun!

Staffing Changes Bring New Faces and New Positions

We have successfully transitioned staff and branches into the second phase of our agency restructuring. 

Steven Early has been moved to the position of Director of Partnerships. Steven will now focus on recruitment and marketing as a way to increase our numbers of matches, both community based and school based.  He will also work jointly with the Development staff to creating funding partnerships with both corporate and private donors.  

Cathy Watlington has been appointed the Director of School and Site based Services. As a previous school based coordinator and match support person for the past six years, Cathy brings much expertise to her new position.

Stephanie Alsvan has become our first full time Community Based Match Support Staff. As she has been a Big Sister for almost three years, she brings a perspective to the position that makes for a well-rounded knowledge base.

Stephanie Hicks, who provided match support to our Lebanon Bigs and Littles for the past seven years, has graduated and is leaving us for teaching position at South West Elementary. She will be missed, though we know her class of second graders will enjoy her enthusiasm!

Getting to Know…
 Santaisha Price
We’d like you to get to know our staff, so each newsletter we’ll be introducing you to a staff member.  We are very fortunate to have staff composed of very dedicated hard working team players we hope you have a chance to talk with them at an event on the phone or in an email.

Santaisha Price. We would like to congratulate and appreciate Taisha, our Customer Service Manager, as she celebrates her 10th year anniversary of BBBS employment in October. Taisha has been very involved and has worked in a number of different job functions. From Office manager to Enrollment and Match to Big Sister and now as our primary contact with people calling to become involved in BBBS services, she has consistently demonstrated a sincere dedication to the mission. As the first voice to parents and potential mentors, she welcomes our Bigs and Littles and streamlines the process for their involvement.

A tribute to Big Brother Robert “Bob” Noonan

On Monday, July 21, Big Brothers Big Sisters said their final farewells to a very dear friend and Big Brother Robert “Bob” Noonan.  Bob passed away at Heart of Lancaster Hospital at the age of 61.  He was matched with his Little Brother Alex for four years. 

Anyone who knew Bob would agree that he had lived an amazing life.  He was a graduate of Bishop McDevitt High School, Class of 1965 and Duquesne University 1969, R.O.T.C.  He served in the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War and was awarded the Purple Heart.  Aside from his involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters, Bob was strongly involved with Susquehanna Ski Club, enjoyed golfing, skiing, and biking.  He was an avid reader, and enjoyed other outdoor activities. 

Bob continually went above and beyond our expectations.  When Alex struggled in school, Bob tutored him once a week.  He remained in close contact with Alex’s teachers to make sure Alex was turning in his assignments.  He encouraged Alex to play sports and attended almost every one of Alex’s baseball games. 

Bob also became a powerful advocate for Big Brothers Big Sisters.  He participated in a photo shoot to help the agency recruit more male mentors, delivered speaking presentations to local businesses and joined the Communications and Marketing Committee shortly before his death. 

We will remember Bob’s sense of humor, his warmth and his wit.  He was the kind of person that could approach a complete stranger on the street and convince them that they needed to become a mentor.  Bob was that passionate about our program. 

Bob is survived by his 2 sons, Sean Noonan and Pat Noonan, both of Des Moines, Iowa; his sister Kathleen Kauffman of Etters; and his brother Thomas Noonan of Mechanicsburg. 

Bob’s brother Tom has agreed to become Alex’s Big Brother.  They will be officially matched by the end of this month.   

The loss of Big Sister Nancy Zarker

Big Brothers Big Sisters was both stunned and saddened by the loss of Big Sister Nancy Zarker on Monday, July 21, 2008. 

Nancy was born here in Harrisburg and lived in Etters working at BBBS partner PHEAA for over 26 years.  It was through PHEAA that Nancy become involved as a Big Sister. 

Nancy was matched with her Little Sister Apollyon at the Ben Franklin School, as part of the Site-Based program, in December 2004.  They maintained a relationship and transitioned to the community-based program in March 2007.  After becoming a community match the two went to the movies, the park and went shopping.  They also enjoyed playing games and cooking when getting together on Wednesdays and some weekends.

Nancy’s husband has said that she really loved her little sister and spending quality time together building a relationship.  

Agency Picnic and Volunteer Appreciation

Koons Memorial Park in Linglestown was taken over on Sunday August 10 as Big Brothers Big Sisters celebrated their Annual Agency Picnic with a Hawaiian Luau and Olympic Games in the Park. 

Over one hundred Bigs, Littles, Family Members, Friends, Staff and Board Members celebrated the day listening to 99.3 Kiss FM and enjoying the perfect summer day in the part.  Everyone especially enjoyed the great food, the refreshing blue and red slushies and the exciting Olympic style games.  Our Bigs and Littles took to the court for a few friendly games of basketball, tested their pitching arms in the Kiss FM blow up display, and teamed up for a water balloon toss towards the end of the day.
 
After lunch, ABC27’s Valerie Pritchett delivered a great speech about the importance of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program.  The Littles were then invited to pick up a special reward for their Big, a new t-shirt with the words VIB: Very Important Big. 

Big Brothers Big Sisters would like to thank our donors for their generous contributions:
Sheetz
Karns Foods
Hershey Foods
Kint
Clearchannel
Frito-Lay
Pepsi
Big Brother Jeremy Williard

New Community based matches have been made - Congratulations to the following Bigs and Littles who have become new matches since June 1, 2008!

Little  Big
Amber  Kelli
Kayla  Lissette
Zoe  Carol
Melaycia Melanie
Debbie  Christina
Richard Robert
Nicholas David
Joshua  Carl
Philanna Lori
Catherine Alexis
Edward Eric
Emarelyz Tracy
Theresa Lisa
Shylia  Keisha
Sage  Lloyd
Da'Mira Nadia
Audrey  Rebecca
Bryce  John
Mykenzie Linda
Shaun  Matthew
Kianna  Lisa
Ariana  Christie

Community Events Calendar

Summer is coming to a close and school is starting again as we wind our way into the Fall Season.  As a continued aspect of the newsletter and website Big Brothers Big Sisters wanted to let you know about some very exciting events and opportunities that are just around the corner in our four county area including contact information.  Some events are still updating information so be sure to check for any changes as the event date gets closer. 
 
As always if there are any special events or activities that come up we will send e-mails and make phone calls to alert as many people as possible about the new and exciting opportunities. Thanks to anyone who participates and please be sure to check our website for additional events that come up in the months ahead.   

September Events

City Island Attractions – Arcade and Batting Cages open weekends in September and October from 11am-8pm

Pride of the Susquehanna – Sept 6th – Oct 25th Public Cruises at 12pm on Saturdays.  $7 Adult, $6 Senior, Children (3-12) $4 http://www.harrisburgriverboat.com/

Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex Events – Till 11/20 • Farmers' market, Tue & Fri, 6/1-11/20; flea market, Sun, 6/3–10/28; All American Dairy Show, 9/13-9/18; Penn National Horse Show 10/09-10/18; PA 4-H Horse Show 10/24-10/26; Builders Show 11/05; Motorcycle Swap Meet & Motorcycle Show 11/23; Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg. Call for details. 717-787-5373; www.farmshowcomplex.state.pa.us

The Science of Aliens – 6/16–11/18 • Alien-themed exhibits & activities. Harsco Science Center, Whitaker Center, Harrisburg. Call for details. 717-214-2787; www.whitakercenter.org
Central Jazz Service  Thursday, Sep 4, 2008, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm, FREE
(Fairs/Festivals, Rockabilly/Swing, Blues, Jazz)
Market and Main Sts., Mechanicsburg, PA 17055, 717-796-0811 As part of the 'Concerts on the Corner" Series, presented by the Mechanicsburg Chamber of Commerce. The Series is in it's fifth year.  
Corner Concerts Ready to Roll in Mechanicsburg

Smiles Project, McRad and more (Fairs/Festivals, Recreation)
Saturday, Sep 6, 2008, 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm, $5 at Veterans Memorial Park
(down town, Newport, PA 17074)

Open Skate Sessions Longboard and OG Slalom demo and downhill races. Skateboard teams and Pro demos Contests--Biggest Ollie, s.k.a.t.e., best trick Tattoo artists Graffiti artists--Ramon Trevino Skate shops--CharmCity, Revival, Exist, Alternative Board Companies--Heater, One Skateboards, Keystone Live Music--Smiles Project, McRad and more DJ. Raffles, giveaways, prizes! raindate September 7th!

Fall Festival at Messiah Village Saturday September 6,2008 9am-4pm.
Enjoy a chicken barbecue, ice cream, french fries, funnel cakes, bounces and slides for kids, the Steve Courtney Band, ZooAmerica demonstrations, books sales, quilt auction, bake sales and crafts. FREE.
Messiah Village 100 Mt Allen Drive Mechanicsburg, PA Phone: 717-697-4666 http://www.messiahvillage.com/events.htm - events1

Children's Story Time and Discovery Walk  September 6, 2008 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM at the Benjamin Olewine III Nature Center
In the classroom of the Olewine Nature Center, pre school and early elementary school aged children will listen to a story and learn about some of the animals that live at wildwood. A discovery walk in the Sanctuary will follow the story.  This event is FREE and has no pre registration required http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=18434

20th Annual Harrisburg Gallery Walk Sunday September 7, 2008 11am-6pm
21 N Front Street Harrisburg, PA 17101 717-236-1432
Celebrate the Art and Soul of the City !
http://www.artassocofhbg.com/81043_Gallery%20Walk%20brochure%20PROOF.pdf

Marysville Fall Festival Saturday September 13, 2008 9am-3pm at the Marysville Lions Club: Children’s activities, Chicken BBQ by the Boy Scouts, 1st Annual Car Show, Hall’s Hand Dipped Ice Cream.  Rain or Shine.

Jazz Festival  September 13, 2008 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Fort Hunter Mansion and Park: Relax and enjoy an evening with jazz artists Jazzy Soul Collective Tour, Central PA Friends of Jazz, Jimmy Sommers, Randy Muller, Mike Phillips, Angela Johnson, Andre Ward and Gordon Chambers.  This event does cost money.  Advanced tickets are $20 and tickets at the door are $25 http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=17592

All American Dairy Show September 13-18 at the Farm Show Complex
The All-American Dairy Show announces its 45th anniversary with a ‘Celebration of Excellence' this Sept. 13–18 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center.  Exhibitors, dairy enthusiasts, visitors and guests are invited to attend the special anniversary celebrations in addition to the popular shows, activities and contests that are scheduled for show week.  Special activities planned for the 45th celebration will be the Anniversary Social Gathering, the Youth Benefit Auction and the Value Added Trade Show.
http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/aads/site/default.asp

BookRATs Thursday, September 18, 2008 6:00PM - 7:00PM East Shore Area Library 4501 Ethel Street Harrisburg PA 17109 (717) 652-9380
Read a book (We'll choose a topic. You choose a book.) And talk about what you've read. You'll also do a craft or activity, have a snack and pick a book for next month's meeting. BookRATs meetings are for kids 6-10 years old.
Registration is required. To register 652-9380 option 5.  FREE

Fort Hunter Day  September 21, 2008 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Fort Hunter Mansion and Park: An Autumn festival where once a year Dauphin County closes down Front Street so visitors can really get a sense of what the area was like before the automobile. This annual autumn festival features tons of activities for the kids. Children's crafts and games, pony, hay and carriage rides, live music, a terrific craft show and sale, food and quilt display are only part of the many things to do.  FREE http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=18406

October Events

Fall Carlisle - Carlisle Events, Carlisle Fairgrounds, Oct 1st – 5th                 
1000 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA, 717-243-7855. This is Carlisle Events' original swap meet, created in 1974 for post-war vehicles. You'll find a huge car corral and thousands of vendors.

25th Anniversary Festival Saturday, Oct 4, 2008, 12:00 pm - 6:30 pm, FREE
Little Buffalo State Park (RR 2 , Newport, PA 17074, 171-567-7023
Featuring Live Music, Visual Arts, Children's Activities, Workshops, Food (lot's more!!). Come and spend the day with your family in Perry County at Little Buffalo State Park! FREE TO ALL!!!!
http://littlebuffalofestival.blogspot.com/

Pennsylvania Indians Festival  October 5, 2008 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Fort Hunter Mansion and Park: Curious about how Pennsylvania Indians once lived? Visit a wigwam, learn about the food Indians grew and gathered, how they hunted and made fire. See their tools, dances, music, beadwork and clothing, and the animals and plants they used.  FREE
http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=18407

Halloween at Fort Hunter  October 15,16, 22, 23,29, 2008 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Fort Hunter Mansion and Park: Enjoy a Spooky Scavenger Hunt, Pumpkin Carving, Spooky Stories and Hayrides at historically haunted Fort Hunter. The evening concludes with refreshments. Apple cider maybe?  $10 per child, Adults enter free
http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=18408

BookRATs Thursday, October 16, 2008 6:00PM - 7:00PM East Shore Area Library 4501 Ethel Street Harrisburg PA 17109 (717) 652-9380
Read a book (We'll choose a topic. You choose a book.) And talk about what you've read. You'll also do a craft or activity, have a snack and pick a book for next month's meeting. BookRATs meetings are for kids 6-10 years old.
Registration is required. To register 652-9380 option 5.  FREE

Oktoberfest at the Carlisle Barracks  (Fairs/Festivals, Food/Dining)  Saturday, Oct 18, 2008, 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm Carlisle Barracks (Carlisle Barracks, Carlisle Barracks, PA 17013, 717-245-3131  Fun for all ages. FREE ADMISSION (pay as you go). Come join the people's fair. Volksmarch, live entertainment, food/beer, kids games, street vendors, games/activities.
http://www.carlisle.army.mil/events.shtml

Health America Children's Literacy Festival Saturday, October 18, 2008 10:00AM - 2:00PM at  Strawberry Square 11 N. 3rd St. Harrisburg PA 17101 (717) 255-1038  FREE  The Literacy Festival is open to the public. Bring the whole family out to enjoy a day of free books for children, entertainment, celebrity readers and literacy activities, along with games and arts and crafts. http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=15758

College Fair Tuesday, October 21, 2008 10:00AM - 2:00PM Strawberry Square, 11 N. 3rd St. Harrisburg PA 17101 (717) 255-1038 FREE As you begin to plan your future and decide what college or university you want to attend, you want to be as knowledgeable as possible. Stop by the College Fair and pick up some information from various colleges and universities.
http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=15759

Susquehanna Orchid Society Show  Saturday, Oct 25, 2008, 8:00 am FREE  (Fairs/Festivals, Home & Garden, Shows) Stauffers of Kissel Hill - Harrisburg (5350 Linglestown Road, Harrisburg, PA 17112, 717-657-1760 Annual Orchid Show and sale. Orchid education and conservation of their habitat. http://www.susquehanna-orchid.org/

Out of the Ordinary Tales For Halloween October 25, 2008 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Fort Hunter Mansion and Park: Kinder, gentler Halloween stories appropriate for all family members. That's our kind of event, we're still afraid of the dark.  Tickets range from $1 to $3. $1.50 per child, $3.00 per adult. Maximum charge of $6.50 per family
http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=18410

November Events

Holiday Festival Saturday November 15, 2008 Holiday party hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters.  More details to follow.

Holiday Parade Saturday November 22, 2008 Harrisburg.  BBBS participates in this parade every year and will be helping out again this year.  Please keep a look out for more information about this event to follow in the coming months.

Post Holiday Parade Reception Saturday, November 22, 2008 12:30PM - 3:00PM Strawberry Square 11 N. 3rd St. Harrisburg PA 17101 (717) 255-1038. Stop by for hot chocolate, cookies and a visit from Santa.  FREE
http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=15761

Super-dooper-de-looper! Hershey and the History of Amusement Parks
November 19, 2008 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Fort Hunter Mansion and Park: Are you a rollercoaster junky? Learn about the lure of the amusement park. Join John R. Haddad, for a walk down memory lane with the history of amusement parks in this area, with a special emphasis on Hershey. FREE http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=18417

BookRATs Thursday, November 20, 2008 6:00PM - 7:00PM East Shore Area Library 4501 Ethel Street Harrisburg PA 17109 (717) 652-9380
Read a book (We'll choose a topic. You choose a book.) And talk about what you've read. You'll also do a craft or activity, have a snack and pick a book for next month's meeting. BooRATs meetings are for kids 6-10 years old.
Registration is required. To register 652-9380 option 5.  FREE

Toy Train Exhibit Saturday, November 29 and Sunday November 30, 2008 12:30PM - 4:30PM In the joy of simple things memories are made. The Keystone Model Railroad Historical Society returns to Fort Hunter with a display of HO gauge trains that travel over a large layout representing communities in Central PA. Fort Hunter Park Harrisburg, FREE http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=18508

Festival of Trees Saturday, November 29, 200812:30PM - 4:30PM at Fort Hunter: View Christmas trees decorated by local Garden Clubs of the Harrisburg Area Civic Garden Center using handmade ornaments. Trees are available for raffle and a selection of ornaments are for sale.  Fort Hunter Park, Harrisburg FREE http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=18502

There are also dozens of fall festivals, hayrides, parades and community days throughout the fall.  Check out the local newspaper or keep an eye out for signs advertising an activity.  My lists are never 100% complete as flea markets, and festivals are announced all the time.  I would also recommend a couple websites for those who have the time to check out and look over the events sections.
http://www.visithhc.com/
http://www.spotobe.com/
http://www.harrisburgevents.com/
http://www.pa-events.com/Kids+and+Family/index.shtml

If you ever have any suggestions of other websites we could add to our lists or events we should advertise please let me know at This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region is participating in the Walk for a Healthy Community presented by Highmark Blue Shield this Saturday, June 7, 2008 at City Island in Harrisburg.  
 
The Walk for a Healthy Community is a fundraiser that benefits 26 local health and human service agencies in Central Pennsylvania, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters. 
 
More than 60 walkers will lace up their track shoes and take part in the 5K or 1 mile run walk to benefit our organization this year.  
 
Highmark Blue Shield underwrites the cost of the walk so that 100 percent of the money raised by walkers goes directly to our organization.

2nd Street Stroll: A New Twist on an Old Classic

October 7, 2008 marks the date of a region-wide Symposium that Big Brothers Big Sisters will be hosting to call attention to the important needs of children who have an incarcerated parent. 

Mentoring has been proven to have a very positive influence on children who have a parent locked away from them, providing a sense of security and consistency that can be missing. The conversation will be broadened to include other agencies who deal with the children of incarcerated parents. The goal is to develop a strategic plan for collaboration with our community partners on behalf of children with an incarcerated parent. 
Those partners include but are not limited to educators, members of the criminal justice system, other children service providers, faith based partners, community groups and most importantly, parents.
 
Speakers for this symposium include Ann Adalist-Estrin, the Director of the National Resource Center for Children and Families of the Incarcerated at the Family and Corrections Network as well as the Rev. Dr. Wilson Goode of Philadelphia, the developer of the Amachi Program, a mentoring program for children of incarcerated parents provided through the faith based community. We are indeed fortunate to have these two very knowledgeable dedicated people involved in our event.
 
Both presenters will also be available for an evening educational opportunity on that date so anyone unable to join in the day's symposium will have an opportunity. Mark your calendars - this will be an illuminating and invigorating day and evening!

Total Raised:  $215,000
Corporate Sponsorships:  $34,000
Bowlers:  $181,000

Perfect Game Sponsor ($2,500 to $5,000)
Applebee's
Bon-Ton
Pizza Hut
The Phillips Group
Wal Mart

Frame Sponsor ($1,000 to $2,499)
Carlisle SynTec Incorporated
Millers Mutual Group
M &T Bank
Nationwide
United Concordia
Utz
W & L Distributors

Lane Sponsor ($250 to $999)
Bowers Insurance
Carlisle Events
Dawood
Diamond Automatic Sprinklers, Inc.
F&M Trust
Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, Inc.
JPL Productions
Motor-Vation
Orrstown Bank
Saidis Flower & Lindsay

At the EITC birthday celebration, students, parents and community and business leaders, including Big Brothers Big Sisters' own board member, Daniel Wright, spoke about the importance of this program. 

Over the past seven years, 3,200 businesses have qualified for the EITC, donating $360 million for scholarships to over 158,000 students and funded thousands of public education initiatives. 
The High School Mentoring Program, a sub-division of the School Based Mentoring Program, qualifies Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region as an Educational Improvement Organization (EIO).  As an EIO, Big Brothers Big Sisters will use corporate EITC contributions to fund mentoring services in Harrisburg University SciTech High, Harrisburg High School, and Carlisle High School.  Students from these high schools are matched with elementary school students from their respective school districts.  The “Bigs” and “Littles” spend lunch together a few times a month.

Through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC), businesses will receive tax credits equal to 75% of their contribution up to a maximum of $200,000 per taxable year.  If a business commits to donate the same amount for two consecutive years, they will receive credits equal to 90% of their contributions.  Tax credits may be applied against the tax liability of a business for the tax year in which the contribution was made.  Since donations are made to a 501 (c)(3), they are deductible on federal tax returns as well. 

Businesses in Pennsylvania that pay any of the following taxes qualify to participate in the EITC program:

Corporate Net Income Tax
Capital Stock and Franchise Tax
Bank and Trust Company Shares Tax
Title Insurance Companies Shares Tax
Insurance Premiums Tax
Mutual Thrift Institutions Tax

EITC tax credits are given out on a first-come first –serve basis, and once the designated amount is gone, it’s gone, so you should act quickly!  Applications will be accepted starting July 1, 2008.

To apply for EITC eligibility, complete the one page application located in the EITC Business Guidelines online at newspa.com.  Submit your application via mail, fax, e-mail or in person:

Department of Community and Economic Development
The Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program
Center for Business Financing – Tax Credit Division
400 North Street, 4th Floor
Commonwealth Keystone Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120-0225
Telephone: (717) 787-7120
Fax: (717) 772-3581
E-mail:  This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it

In 2-3 weeks, if funding is still available, you’ll receive an award letter, allowing your company to give EITC donors to Big Brothers Big Sisters. 

Your company has 60 days from the date your award letter was issued to make a contribution to Big Brothers Big Sister, an approved EIO.

After receiving a contribution, BBBS provides your company with a contribution receipt, which you submit to DCED within 90 days from date of award letter.

Now’s the time to consider registering for the EITC program and secure your EITC tax credits to support Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs.  I you have any further questions, or would like to set up an appointment, please contact Maggie Bowley, Vice President of Development, at 717.236.0199 or This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it . 
 

The study by the Prevention Research Center at Penn State focused on programs that provide mentoring opportunities for at-risk youth, school-based and family building initiatives, substance abuse prevention efforts, and individual and family therapy for juvenile offenders.

Each of the programs reviewed by the Prevention Research Center had a positive cost benefit ratio from nearly $54 to nearly $80,000 per youth resulting in an estimated average return of up to $12 million per community for a single program and a total cost savings of $317 million statewide. 

“This report comes at a critical time,” said Brian Bumbarger, co-author of the report and the director of policy research for the Prevention Research Center.  “Given the current rate of inmate population growth, Pennsylvania can spend $700 million on new prison construction and we’ll still be overcrowded by more than 9,000 inmates within five years.”

The report is available from the Penn State Prevention Research Center at www.prevention.psu.edu .

Under the new staff restructure plan of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region, I was selected to head the team of staff working with our community based (traditional) matches.  That translates into to a team of nine staff members across our four counties whom you will meet through "enrollment" (the application/interview process) or through "match support" (once you are matched).  

Prior to my position as Director of Community Based Services, I was working in the Carlisle office as Area Director and I have been employed with BBBS since 1998, in various direct service roles.  Through the centralization of direct service programs, I am excited to be working with an experienced and enthusiastic team of professionals dedicated to making long lasting matches for all the children and volunteers in our communities that choose to become involved in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.

The Community Based Services team is focused upon getting out into our local communities to make our agency more visible to the public.  So don’t be surprised if you see an enrollment specialist sitting at your local coffee shop talking to a prospective “big” or a Big Brothers Big Sisters training held in your local library.  It is all part of our efforts to be more responsive and available to the people interested in mentoring! 

Our team welcomes and encourages any request to promote our programming to your community group, church or organization.  Through brochures, displays or speaking engagements, we are available to spread the word about the value of mentoring to the mid-state.  I look forward to meeting more and more of the friends of Big Brothers Big Sisters throughout our area and extend an invitation to you to join us in working towards meeting the needs of children through mentoring.

Our school based coordinators have worked extremely hard to make sure the school districts, parents and especially the children are comfortable with these new match relationships.  I would like to recognize them for their efforts because although the child and volunteers jobs are simple. The behind the seams efforts can be very time consuming and often overwhelming at times. I thank you all, as well as all of our school, site and business contact people who assist us in making this work. 

SCHOOL BASE PLUS is our news option for site based mentoring. This option gives the match an opportunity to communicate via phone, email or letter throughout the summer months.

Please visit our website www.capbigs.org or call us at (717) 236-0199 to find out how you can get your child, business or family involved in our efforts to create brighter futures for our youth. We have a large variety of way to contribute. We would love to visit your child’s school for the 2008/2009 school year.

"This I Believe" is a national media project engaging millions of people in writing, sharing, and discussing the core values and beliefs that guide their daily lives.  WITF offers your students the opportunity to contribute to this project by writing and submitting their own statement of personal belief and the reasons behind it.  Based on a 1950s radio program of the same name, This I Believe was hosted by acclaimed journalist Edward R. Murrow.  Murrow said it best when he claimed that the program seeks "to point to the common meeting grounds of beliefs, which is the essence of brotherhood and the floor of our civilization."

Interested students are encouraged to submit an essay of 500 words or less via e-mail to This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it with the phrase This I Believe Submission in the subject line. Essays may also be mailed to the following address: WITF-FM 89.5 "This I Believe," WITF Public Media Center, 4801 Lindle Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111.  Writers are asked to include their name, address, daytime and evening phone numbers, and e-mail addresses with their submissions. Essays will not be returned.

WITF-FM 89.5 will review all submissions and contact your student if his/her essay is chosen.  Students whose essays are chosen will have the opportunity to come in to WITF to record their essay for air. Essays air weekly on Morning Edition and All Things Considered.  Students will also receive, via e-mail, an mp3 of their broadcast, exactly as it was heard on the air.

For more information, visit http://www.witf.org/FM/believe.php
 

Shanon was the winner of Big Brothers Big Sisters' Elliot Riegler Scholarship.  Big Brothers Big Sisters VP of Programs, Susan Hair, presented the award at Harrisburg High School's Senior Award Night Celebration.  
At the ceremony, Susan talked about how the winner embodies the mission of realizing that mentoring contributes to brighter futures, that she put effort into working to better herself and others, and that we hope she will become a Big Sister someday.  When she announced Shanon’s name as the winner, the audience erupted into applause.  Susan said she was very honored to present the scholarship award to Shanon, adding, “She is a rock star.”

As the night went on, Shanon was called to the stage again and again.  The Rotary Club recognized Shanon as a senior that put others before herself, awarding her one of their scholarships.  Then the John Harris-William Penn Alumni Award going to a graduating senior who represents Harrisburg High School in the community in a positive way was given – also to Shanon.  Finally, Shanon was announced as the winner of the Ollie Rosenberg Scholarship, which goes to a student who has overcome adversity to demonstrate personal strength, growth and confidence.

Shanon will be attending Clarion University this fall, where she will study business management.  She plans to open her own business one day – a women’s clothing boutique.  Shanon’s Big Sister, Larissa, said, “I’m not surprised at all that Shanon has accomplished what she has.  I’m proud, very proud.”  Though their match must now officially close, they both say they will definitely stay in touch; Larissa is already making plans to visit Shanon at college.

New Community based matches have been made - Congratulations to the following Bigs and Littles who have become new matches since January 1, 2008!


Date:    Little:       Big: 

January
2           Ellysa         Mimi
2           Brohdy       Daniel
7           Joshua       Hannah & Ed
12         Cenedra     Shayla
17         Keyuon’ya  Kristen
22         Brandon     Stephen
23         Brent         Herman
26         Egan         Michael

February
6          Melani       Gladys
7          Cheshnia   Laura
8          Danielle     Sheri
11        Briana       Erin
15        Brandon    Ryan
25        Tiffany      Sharon
29        Megan      Sherry

March
5         Tajheem   Larry 
6         Terrance   Jonathon
7         Maya        Marci
7         Briona      Anne-Marie
10       Samantha Deborah
16       Regan       Kija
16       Jordyn      Beth-Ann
16       Taylor      Karen
20       Gwen       Loretta
24       Jordan     Jennie
24       Reinaldo  Timothy
26       Tanya      Denise

April
3         Lorin        Johnny
4         Brandon   Eric
8         Na-sheam Stephen
9         Frankie     Bradley
15       NyJera       Anna
17       Miracle      Ashley
23       Deion       Christopher
29       Donna-Jo  Melissa


May
1        Daniel       Steven
2        Sadie        Lauren
13      Krystal       Esther
13      Shavonne  Carolyn
14      Daijha       Ashley
16      Harmony   Karima
19      David    Joyce & Daniel
22      Dasha       Molly
28      Kevin        Pete

Two Elliot Riegler Memorial Scholarships of $1,000.00 were awarded. One went to Shanon Watts, who will attend Clarion in the fall and the other to Sarah Freeman who intends to begin her post high school studies at HACC.
 
Appreciation for all their efforts and mentoring was extended to all Bigs. While the BBBS involvement officially ends at the high school graduation, we know that the relationships that have been built will continue to grow.
 
We thank all our Bigs for their dedication and participation; without them, BBBS wouldn't exist. We wish all the Littles best of luck as they move forward with their lives after high school. It is our hope that all have profited as much from their involvement with us as we have with them.
 
Graduating seniors and their Bigs are:
    Sara Watkins who has been matched with her Big Sister Robin Lauerman for 7 years.
    Shanon Watts who has been matched with her Big Sister Larissa York for 11 years
    Darrian Terry who has been matched with his Big Brother Bob Welsh for 9 years.
    Sarah Freeman who has been matched with her Big Sister Linda Morrison for 9 years
    Carolyn Higgins who has been matched with her Big Sister  Michelle Quigley for 7 years
    Brittanee Mowrer who has been matched with her Big Sister Marcia Perrotti for 11 years
    Brittany Nace who has been matched with her Big Sister Corrina Chandler for 6 years
    Mark Baer who has been matched with his Big Brother Robert Tecau for 7 years
    Tiarra Sawyers who has been matched with her Big Sister Erika Flynn for 10 years
    Christina Cardamone who has been matched with her Big Sister Tiffany Rivera-Smith for 
       8 years
    Jeremy Moore-Snyder who has been matched with his Big Brother Bob Hopstetter for 8 years.
 
Thank you so very much for your involvement. To our graduating Littles, best of luck in the future and consider becoming a Big yourself whenever the time is right! To our "graduating" Bigs, please know we will be in touch and surely hope you will remain involved!

Attention Bigs!  Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region is starting a speaker's bureau, and we want to hear from you! 

The speaker's bureau will visit local companies, clubs and other organizations across our service area, sharing their special stories, thoughts and ideas about Big Brothers Big Sisters.  The goal is to increase awareness, recruit more "Bigs" and stir up conversation about the many positive influences mentoring programs have on our communities.

If you would like to get involved, please contact Kim Stutzman at (717) 236-0199 ext. 224. 

As a continued aspect of the newsletter and website, Big Brothers Big Sisters wanted to let you know about some very exciting events and opportunities that are just around the corner from our four county areas including contact information.  Some events are still updating information so be sure to check for any changes as the event date gets closer.  As always if there are any special events which come up we will send e-mails and make phone calls to alert as many people as possible about the new and exciting opportunities. Thanks to anyone who participates and please be sure to check our website for additional events that come up in the months ahead.   
 
There are lots of free activities that exist in our community everyday. 

Look up your local library and check out story times, movie nights and maybe check out the book shelves!

There are hiking trails and conservation areas all around including Peters Mountain, Stoney Creek (Dauphin Co), the Joseph E Ibberson Conservation Area (www.visithhc.com/z/ibbersonpark.htm) and King’s Gap State Park (Cumberland Co) which has hiking and an Environmental Education Center
    Tour the Capital Complex (Harrisburg)
    Visit the Carlisle Barracks (Carlisle)
    Governor’s Mansion Tours (Harrisburg)

Harrisburg City has multiple Summer Recreation Programs available to the youth of the city which can be explored by clicking here: http://www.harrisburgevents.com/Recreation/Recreation.html

Dauphin County Parks-Rec & Wildwood Lake Sanctuary Events – 6/2–6/29 • Bird walk, 6/2; National Trails Day events, 6/2; volunteer work day, 6/9; triathlon, 6/16; Emerald Necklace walking program, 6/17; summer day camps, 6/18-6/22 & 6/25-6/29; summer flower walk, 6/24. Call for details. 717-221-0292.

Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex Events – Till 11/20 • Farmers' market, Tue & Fri, 6/1-11/20; flea market, Sun, 6/3–10/28; PA High School Rodeo, 6/8-6/10; Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg. Call for details. 717-787-5373; www.farmshowcomplex.state.pa.us

The 1930s: Prosperity Is Just Around the Corner – 6/4–8/2 • Clothing exhibit. Shippensburg University. Mon-Thu noon-4pm; by appointment. Free. 717-477-1239; http://webspace.ship.edu/fasharch

2008 Youth Expo June 6, 2008
Time(s): 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. The 2008 Youth Expo will feature vendors who cater to the needs of today's youth. The event will include information, samples, fundraising ideas, employers, entertainment, merchandise and more. This event is Free and will be located at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Harrisburg. For more information: Phone: 717-503-2242
Pipes & Drums Festival – 6/9 • Food, music, crafts, more. Fort Hunter Mansion & Park, Harrisburg. 10am-3pm. Free. 717-350-5603; www.pennscots.org

The Science of Aliens – 6/16–11/18 • Alien-themed exhibits & activities. Harsco Science Center, Whitaker Center, Harrisburg. Call for details. 717-214-2787; www.whitakercenter.org

Public Astronomy Observation – 6/18 • Grundy Observatory, F&M College, Lancaster. Begins one hour after dusk. Free. 717-291-4136; www.fandm.edu

Jubilee Day Thursday, June 19, 2008 10:00AM - 9:00PM Mechanicsburg Downtown Main St. & Market St Mechanicsburg PA 17055
Jubilee Day is the largest, longest one-day street fair on the East Coast. Celebrating its 80th year, the 2008 edition features food, rides, games, arts and crafts, children's activities, and entertainment. This year's theme is `Past, Present and Future` and looks at the beginnings of the event and where the future may lead. Free parking with shuttle service.  http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=17244&search=categoryIDs%3D7
Kids, Crafts and Creations – Monday June 23, 2008 – Friday August 15, 2008 This event will have a variety of hands-on crafts and demonstrations that help the whole family connect with the Hershey Museum’s various exhibits. The activities are available weekdays between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM.  Hershey Museum 170 W. Hersheypark Dr. Hershey PA 17033 (717) 534-3439 Tickets prices vary between $3-$7 and activities are free with admission.

Fort Hunter Events – 6/23 • Dauphin County Day & A Midsummer Nights' Tales storytelling. Fort Hunter Mansion & Park, Harrisburg. Call for details. 717-599-5751; www.forthunter.org
18th Annual International African Family Festival, Dates: Saturday, June 28 and Sunday, June 29, 2008 Location: Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts

Reservoir Park – 100 Concert Drive.  This is a two-day outdoor festival, celebrating African culture, heritage and tradition. "A colorful world of arts, heritage and entertainment for families in Central Pennsylvania and surrounding areas"  Saturday from 7:00 PM-10:00 PM featuring "Jazz’in at the Levitt", a live jazz concert. Music lovers bring your blankets and lawn chairs for a relaxing evening of good jazz music and food concessions. Sunday from 12:00 noon - 8:00 PM will feature a colorful and vibrant African Marketplace, international foods booths, local community non-profits and businesses are available with helpful information and children’s activities. Live performances throughout the day include Jazz, R&B, Hip-hop, Dance, Steppers, and much more.
For more information call 717-232-8803 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it

MusicFest  July 4 - 6, 2008 • 12 Noon - 10 PM http://www.harrisburgevents.com/Common_pages/AMF.html
*** Big Brothers Big Sisters will be staffing Soda tents at this event.  Feel free to contact us about volunteering ***
Six entertainment stages will run the length of Riverfront Park from Forester to Vine Streets featuring a wide variety of rock & roll, classical, reggae, international, funk, hip hop and country artists. Three food courts will offer menus for every taste and the expanded amusement ride areas will insure thrills for every age. ACTIVITES: Live Music from Local, Regional and National Artists, Children's Village, International Bazaar, Strolling Performers, Volleyball Tournament, Karate Tournament

Harrisburg Street Festival Saturday, July 12, 2008 12:00PM - 6:00PMThe 2nd Annual Harrisburg Street Festival will be Located in Downtown Harrisburg (Walnut Street from 4th to Court and Third Street from Pine to Market Street). The event will kick off at 12 noon with a live performance by renowned children's artist, Steven Courtney as well as various activities such as inflatable attractions, sports and fitness activities and various human interest activities. Several food vendors will be there, and there will also be a children's section focused on promoting family fun and interaction with arts and crafts, a children's performance stage-sponsored by PSECU and SuperReader along with many other fun events.  For more information contact Leigh Ann M. Urban This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it (717) 236-9762ext 105

Family Fun Day & Camp Out Saturday, July 12, 2008 10:00AM - ???  The National Civil War Museum One Lincoln Cir. Harrisburg PA 17103  is inviting people to bring out the family and see the encampment of Thompson’s Independent Battery C with artillery and enjoy period children’s games. You can also spend the night at the encampment.

Registration for the overnight camp out is required by July 3.  Contact Information for this event is Lynn Smolizer This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it (717) 260-1861

College Fair July 17, 2008 10am-2pm at Strawberry Square 11 N. 3rd St. Harrisburg PA 17101 (717) 255-1038.  This is a great way to learn a little about what the future might hold and help students see a path through high school, leading to college. http://www.spotobe.com/events/Details.aspx?ID=15755&search=categoryIDs%3D5

Kipona Festival -  August 30- September 1, 2008 Riverfront Park and City Island http://www.harrisburgevents.com/Common_pages/Kipona.html
*** Big Brothers Big Sisters will be staffing Soda tents at this event.  Feel free to contact us about volunteering ***
This event will feature: PSECU Artfest, GIANT's State Chili Cook-off, Live Music, BELCO Children's Village, PA State Grange Baking Contest, Children’s Village, State Volleyball Tournament, Dragon Boat Races, Boat Parade, National Karate Tournament, Canoe Races, Native American Pow-Wow, and of course Fireworks!!

There are also dozens of fairs, carnivals, and community days throughout the summer.  Check out the local newspaper or keep an eye out for signs advertising an activity.  My lists are never 100% complete as flea markets, and festivals are announced all the time.  I would also recommend a couple websites for those who have the time to check out and look over the events sections.
http://www.spotobe.com/
http://www.harrisburgevents.com/
http://www.pa-events.com/Kids+and+Family/index.shtml

If you ever have any suggestions of other websites we could add to our lists or events we should advertise please let me know at This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it

We have already accomplished one quarter of our intended “2010 new mentoring relationships by 2010”. Our mission, to help children reach their potential through professionally supported, one-to-one relationships, continues to prove successful. Outcomes measures bear witness to the tremendous positive changes mentoring does achieve. Talking with our “Littles” does, too.

I hope you learn more about us. Please call with any questions; we enjoy spreading the news.  We are all part of something “Big”!

Maddie Young, Interim CEO

Calling All Bowlers!

Bowl for Kids' Sake (BFKS) officially kicks off Sunday, March 30 at ABC West in Mechanicsburg and lanes are filling up fast.  We are happy to report all of the sessions at ABC East and one of the sessions at ABC West are officially sold out! 

We still have many open sessions to choose from, so if you want to have a little fun and support a fantastic program for kids, now's the time to ask your friends, family and fellow employees to join you in supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters!
 
We've reserved over 25 sessions at six bowling centers in, and around, the capital region for your convenience. 

Visit capbigs.org/bfks2008 for a list of available dates and locations. 

You can register your team by calling Dana Kruger at (717) 236-0199. 

Remember, you'll receive two games of bowling, pizza, drinks and more! 

It's not too late to sponsor Bowl for Kids' Sake (BFKS) 

Big Brothers Big Sisters is inviting civic-minded organizations to join our growing list of Bowl for Kids' Sake sponsors. 

Bowl for Kids' Sake is by far our largest and most popular fundraiser.  This year, over 3,000 people will raise money by asking their friends and family to make small donations to our organization.   

The money will support nearly half of our overall budget and allow us to continue matching local children with caring adult mentors.

Should you decide to sponsor Bowl for Kids' Sake, each of our 3,000 plus bowlers will know that your company is committed to supporting today's youth. 

In exchange for your generous support, we offer all of our corporate sponsors nearly three months of free advertising in bowling centers throughout Dauphin, Cumberland and Lebanon Counties.

Contact Dana Kruger at (717) 236-0199 or visit Events Sponsorship for a complete list of sponsorship opportunities. 

A Special Thanks to our 2008 BFKS Sponsors
 
Perfect Game Sponsor ($2,500 to $5,000)

Applebee’s
Bon-Ton
Pizza Hut
The Phillips Group

Frame Sponsor ($1,000 to $2,499)

Carlisle SynTec Incorporated
Millers Mutual Insurance
Nationwide Insurance
 
Lane Sponsor ($250 to $999)

Carlisle Events
Diamond Automatic Sprinklers, Inc.
F & M Trust
Herbert, Rowland & Grubic Inc.
Motorvations
JPL Productions

We welcome the following corporate teams participating in BFKS '08.
 
Aerotex
AFSCME
AGA
AmeriChoice Federal Credit Union
Belco Community Credit Union
Brownstone Lodge
Builder's Benefits
Centric Bank
Chamber of Commerce
Cohen, Segalias, Pallas, Greenhall & Furman
Commerce Bank
Core Settlement Services
Deloitte
DEP, Office of Chief Council
Diamond Automatic Sprinkler's, Inc.
Dickinson College, Office of Religious Life and Community Service
Embarq
Footlocker, Camp Hill
Harrisburg City Detectives
HealthAmerica
Holiday Inn West
Hooke, Hooke & Eckman
Herbert, Rowland & Grubic Inc.
Jonestown Bank
McNees, Wallace & Nurick
Members 1st Federal Credit Union
Millers Mutual Insurance
Motorvations
Movie Merchants
Nationwide Insurance
Office of Consumer Advocates
PA Child Welfare Training Program
PA Department of Public Welfare
PA State Association of Township Supervisors
Paxtang Jaycees
PCI Insurance
Penn National Insurance
Pennsylvania Place
PHEAA/AES
Phillips Office Group
PNC Bank
PP&R Comptrollers
Square D/Schneider Electric
Stabler Companies Inc .
State Office of Consumer Affairs
United Concordia Companies, Inc.
Wanner Associates
You could see your company name here!  Call Dana at 236-0199 ext. 231

Our programs are booming!

Throughout 2007 there were a total of 1263 children served; many of those kids are still matched. The traditional community based mentoring program where we match “Littles” with individuals, couples or families continues to be the most well known. Our school and site based programs are expanding and awareness of those is becoming more widespread as well.

BBBS is one of the few – if not the only! – truly proactive, preventive programs aimed at helping kids choose the best paths for themselves to stay out of trouble and ensure a brighter future.  Studies show matching a caring adult with a child who wishes to have some additional one-to-one attention helps increase the child’s self confidence.   Children with mentors are known to have better relationships with peers and other adults. 

In fact, the benefits of our mentoring relationships reach far beyond our children.  Our Bigs often say they get as much out of the relationship as their Littles!

In the community based programs, matches spend time just getting to know each other, generally doing whatever life brings – washing the car, fixing a bike, shooting baskets, making brownies, studying spelling words, talking about friends, etc.  We have been able to offer some group activities also. Through the generosity of community partners, matches have gone to the Hershey Bears games, had the opportunity to hear the Harrisburg Symphony, and most recently were invited to watch the Disney Princesses on Ice.

Our School and site based programs make it possible for volunteers to mentor during the day, such as breakfast time, lunch or after school. Currently we are involved in over 12 school districts throughout our four county area with school based programs in almost 30 elementary and middle schools. A number of those programs involve High School students as mentors. We also have Bigs from a law school, four colleges, and over ten corporations. Additionally, there are BBBS matches at a number of after school programs.

We are constantly updating our website with new training options for Bigs, new community events for matches and new volunteer opportunities for our supporters.  Check it out!

"On the Move"
The Story of Big Sister Evelyn and Little Sister Amber 
 
When Evelyn Arnold decided to become a Big Sister, she already had experience working with children through her work as a volunteer for Girl Scouts. She had an interest in spending more one on one time with a child, and like most volunteers that make the commitment to be a Big, she wanted to make a difference in the life of a child. She wanted to be a friend; she wanted to be the person that her Little Sister could talk to, count on, and be silly with. 
 
When Kim decided to enroll her 8 year old daughter, Amber, in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program she was hoping, like most parents, that Amber would be able to have fun with her Big Sister. She wanted someone that Amber could talk to and share her interests with. Also, as Amber is very energetic she hoped that staff could find a Big Sister that would be able to 'keep up' with her. Amber was looking to have fun, play games and go to the park.

Nearly two years later, it seems that everyone has gotten their wish. Since meeting each other, Evelyn and Amber have been on the move. There is no stopping this duo. They can be spotted at big events such as the Holiday Parade or they can just as easily be seen simply playing outside. Amber especially loves jump rope and often insists that Evelyn to jump rope right along side her. The match have had 'skip it' contests, participated in a bicycle safety derby, and made their own scarecrow at Ashcombes. They have also gone strawberry picking, taken bicycle rides, and participated in the Mechanicsburg Fishing Derby. Evelyn and Amber have memberships at the YMCA and enjoy spending time there when they can. They have taken swimming lessons and dance classes. They went to the Halloween Party and are even considering taking a Karate Class together soon. This match is obviously no stranger to physical activity and also enjoys ice skating, tennis, bowling, and playing basketball.
 
When they are not at the YMCA, the park, or the ice skating rink, Evelyn and Amber also spend time attending church functions. Evelyn has taught Amber valuable lessons, like keeping things organized and becoming more independent.  Amber was Evelyn's guest on 'Bring a Child to Work Day' where she had the chance to learn all about her Big Sister's office.  Overall, Amber describes her relationship with her BS as 'fun, fun, fun'. Evelyn is pleased to have been given the opportunity to make a difference and share in the boundless energy that makes these two hard to catch!

The first time Harrisburg City Police Detective Cindy Baldwin saw 10-year-old Taji, she was watching abc27 News Daybreak.  As she flipped through the newspaper and got ready for work, a piece of his story caught her attention. 
 
"The reporter was talking about a little boy who was looking for a mentor.  The boy said he wanted to be a police detective when he grew up."  Detective Baldwin said.  "At the time, I was working with Big Brothers Big Sisters for Bowl for Kids' Sake and wanted to find out who he was."
 
With a little detective work of our own, Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) tracked down the story and suggested the pair participate in an upcoming event called Job Shadow Day. 
 
Job Shadow Day is meant to give older Little Brothers and Sisters an opportunity to see the direct connection between schoolwork and careers. The event was created in 2003 by BBBS and the Harrisburg Young Professionals (HYP).
  
Detective Baldwin felt she could give Taji a memorable, firsthand experience and agreed to participate.  The pair met for the first time on Job Shadow Day, February 8, 2008.
 
Detective Baldwin had a few surprises in store for Taji on Job Shadow Day.  That afternoon, she was running security for Vice President Dick Cheney, who was visiting Harrisburg to speak at a Republican Party luncheon with Mayor Stephen R. Reed.  
 
By the end of the day, Taji got to meet a number of detectives and had the chance to provide security for the Vice President--something very few 5th graders get to talk about when they go back to class!

"HYP has been a great partner in this event," Susan Hair, Vice President of Programs for Big Brothers Big Sisters said. "This is an excellent opportunity for the Littles to see what working is all about. Hearing from the mentors about what they do - what they did to get where they are - and participating helps make the need for education all that more real. We want to do more of offering kids opportunities to spend time with people in the workforce and invite any others who may wish to participate to give us a call!"
 
Detective Baldwin and Taji's experience was just one of the special stories we've heard from this year's Job Shadow Day participants.
 
Business Development Manager David Botero was matched with Harrisburg High School Student Alex.  Botero handles the media campaigns and business partnerships for “andCulture,” an integrated marketing communications agency in downtown Harrisburg. 
 
"Alex strikes me as a very knowledgeable, inquisitive, and forward-thinking young man, Botero said.  "He really gravitated to the Computer Programming side of the house, and the guys were completely amped to show him the ropes.  I was delighted to have his company."
 
Little Sister Megan was matched with Sergeant Kristal Turner-Childs of the Pennsylvania State Police.  Sergeant Turner-Childs gave Megan a tour of the State Police Headquarters and even let her ride in an unmarked police car.  "We pulled someone over for driving too fast," Megan said.  "It was so cool!"

We would like to thank the following local business leaders for participating in Job Shadow Day:

Cindy Baldwin, Harrisburg City Police
David Botero, andCulture
Michele Koons, Family Health Council of Central Pennsylvania
Jeff Murison, Harrisburg Downtown Improvement District
Annette Sisk, PA Department of Revenue
Tricia Smith, Diverse Technologies Corporation
Sergeant Kristal Turner-Childs, Pennsylvania State Police

Big Brothers Big Sisters has been working with our Harrisburg School District partners and other community agencies to plan an area wide "Stay in School" summit. Among other sponsors, America's Promise, Gear Up, The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, HACC and BBBS will be hosting the first such summit meeting on March 17th.
 
On that date, at the Cooper Student Center, there will be two half day sessions aimed at learning more about and developing some responses to the burgeoning drop out rate among our high school students. Parents of students in the Harrisburg School District will make up at least half of each audience; goals are to learn from them as well as empower them to help with the changes.

Having a mentor, a person in one's corner to provide encouragement has been shown to be one of the most effective ways to help a student decide to stay in school. Our own outcomes demonstrate that time and time again. Our BBBS staff will be an integral part of this day.
 
Mayor Reed, Judge Turgeon, and Judge Cherry will be among the community participants who plan to give their time to this important cause. A panel of students and break out groups with focused agendas will be a part of each session. Morning or Afternoon sessions are available to fit different schedules.
 
In addition to parents of Harrisburg students, registrants include other educators and area providers of service. If there is a question, please call Susan Hair or Janelle Flanagan at our office, 236-0199.

The Mentoring Children of Prisoners program is funded by a federal grant we have received through the Office of Families and Children.

Brighter Futures is the name of our local program that is geared to matching children who have at least one parent incarcerated. There are many such kids in our area and they are often struggling with many worries that their friends may not understand. Matching a caring adult to a child who is missing such a loved one can provide some needed consistency and another source of support.

BBBS has always had children and families of incarcerated parents ask for Bigs; this is nothing new to us. The MCOP grant helps provide some additional resources so that we can reach more children. At MCOP conferences, we have heard about other programs needing to recruit Mentors specifically for this population of kids. We are fortunate; almost every volunteer we have interviewed has expressed interest and enthusiasm about mentoring a child with an incarcerated parent.

A number of children on juvenile probation have a parent who is incarcerated.  We are partnering with the probation folks in our counties to provide some intervention with the siblings of those kids.  Our goal is to match those brothers and sisters and keep them from entering the juvenile justice system.

We are open to referrals of children for this program. If you know of such a child, please ask his or her caretaker to give us a call. (717) 236-0199