Big Brothers Big Sisters of Licking & Perry Counties honored with national award

From Staff Reports
·2 min read
The staff of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Licking and Perry counties, shown in a 2023 file photo, was the only agency in Ohio recognized as a Platinum Award winner by the national organization.
The staff of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Licking and Perry counties, shown in a 2023 file photo, was the only agency in Ohio recognized as a Platinum Award winner by the national organization.

NEWARK – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Licking & Perry Counties has been recognized as a Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Platinum Award Winner for program excellence in 2023.

Every year, the National Leadership Council, comprising local Big Brothers Big Sisters agency leaders and board members, recognize local agencies for excellence in its signature one-on-one youth mentoring program. Of more than 230 local agencies nationwide, the Licking & Perry Counties agency is one of 51 across the country and the only one in Ohio to receive the award, according a news release.

It recognizes top agencies that have shown "remarkable achievements" in consistently retaining mentor and youth matches year to year and "exceptional growth" in their local programs. In the past year, BBBS of Licking & Perry Counties has served over 500 youth and grown its local services by over 20%, according to the news release.

“It is exciting for us to be recognized with an award like this. This is not just a Big Brothers Big Sisters achievement. It signals growth and strength for our entire community,” Executive Director John Alan Wilson said in the release. “Our dedicated staff strive every day to support local youth through mentorship. We also have the best volunteers in the world. If you have ever thought about becoming a Big but haven’t applied yet, now is the time! Today is a great day to decide to help a child in our community.”

In the news release, Big Brothers Big Sisters of American President and CEO Artis Stevens said: “Big Brothers Big Sisters of Licking and Perry County’s commitment to creating and fostering positive mentoring relationships is a testament to the individuals within their organization. Through a shared dedication to meeting the needs of youth in their communities, BBBSLP continues to empower young people to reach their full potential. We are proud to recognize the agency for its excellence in building brighter futures and championing new possibilities."

This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Licking & Perry Counites get national award