Who says African Americans don’t volunteer?
Certainly not Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri.
The local children’s advocacy and mentoring agency had such a big year recruiting black volunteers that it has emerged as a national role model.
In less than 12 months, BBBS surpassed its goal of recruiting 300 African-American volunteers, leading the nation in recruitment for the national organization.
That success defies the organization’s findings that many blacks don’t volunteer because they feel like they’re already volunteering n for example, helping in church or mentoring a niece.
“Typically, a lot of people believe that getting African Americans to volunteer is such a hard task, because it means different things to different people,” said John Suggs, director of community engagement for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri.
“People feel like they’re already volunteering for things, but to do it in an institutional fashion is a lot more work. And for us to be able to hit our goal, we take all the stereotypes and research and prove it wrong by working hard for our community.”
Aloha Cornell, who became a mentor last year, said that even though she spends time with her nieces and nephews, “there are other children who might not have that advantage at home and could use some one-on-one attention.”
BBBS decided to reach out to African-American volunteers because it has a high percentage of African-American children on its local waiting list. And while the agency acquired 342 black mentors this year, with one in every three calls coming from an African-American volunteer, more than 500 children still await a mentor.
The value of volunteers, Suggs said, is great because children with a positive adult influence are less likely to use drugs, skip school or indulge in alcohol. He said volunteering also builds a legacy of volunteers.
Cornell said she began mentoring because she remembered how her aunts and other women made a positive impact on her life. She first considered volunteering when actor and activist Hill Harper noted that 700 children were on the local BBBS waiting list when he spoke at the St. Louis American Foundation’s Salute to Excellence in Education Banquet last year.
“I get satisfaction knowing I’m giving back to the community by helping someone like I was helped,” said Cornell, noting that one of her aunts also is a Big Sister.
Children aren’t the only ones who benefit from the relationship.
“You think you’re going to make a big impact on this young person’s life but they make one on yours,” said Suggs, who serves as a volunteer mentor in addition to his staff position.
The local organization beat its goal while juggling other logistical tasks. In August it relocated to Grand Center, in the former Woolworth building, and held an elaborate grand opening. This summer it also hosted the organization’s national convention, with more than 400 branches attending.
“It was kind of challenging keeping people focused on various things, and it got a little overwhelming when everything collided, but we were able to navigate it,” Suggs said.
“But we can’t take full credit, because the community really stepped up.”
The Winning Wards Initiative, which matches mentors with youth in various wards with the support of the aldermen, played its part. It’s the brainchild of Allie Williams, the mother of slain police officer Norvelle Brown. She too became a volunteer.
Suggs also pointed out key assistance from Alpha Phi Alpha and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. North Patrol’s Maj. Afred Akins allowed 25 police officers to volunteer as mentors. There are too many crucial players to name, Suggs said, but this community of villagers is proving its willingness to help to raise our children.
But more mentors are needed. To volunteer, call (314) 361-5900, ext. 251.
