Caitlin McCusker

January 24, 2010

Presentation Speech—Big Brothers Big Sisters of America

Good evening and welcome. My name is Karen Mathis, and on behalf of the National Big Brothers Big Sisters of America organization I would like to welcome you all to our annual Volunteer Banquet. We as an organization would be nothing without our volunteers. Today marks the end of one year and the beginning of the next in changing the life of a child. This evening I have the honor in presenting the volunteer of the year award to a special individual who truly has made a difference in the lives of everyone at Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is the oldest, largest and most effective youth mentoring organization in the United States. We have been the leader in one-to-one youth service for more than a century, developing positive relationships that have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of young people.

Our mission is to help children reach their potential through professionally supported, one-to-one relationships with mentors that have a measurable impact on youth.

Not everyone is cut out to be a mentor, but those who are make a world of difference. Our mentor’s help children reach their goals and in turn lead them to brighter futures. Our studies show that children who have dependable mentors are more confident in their schoolwork performance and able to get along better with their families. 46% of these children are less likely to begin using illegal drugs, 27% less likely to begin using alcohol and 52% are less likely to skip school.

As a mentor in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America organization you have the opportunity to expand the horizons through the power of one-on-one friendships with young boys and girls. Whether you are shooting hoops, playing a board game, sharing a pizza, taking a walk in the park or just hanging out an talking, it is these little things in life that light up the face of a child.

It isn’t easy being a kid these days. In these complex and confusing times, children need a caring adult to be a mentor and a friend — someone they can talk to, have fun with, and learn from.

Mentors are those individuals that others look up to for advice and guidance. When choosing the “mentor of the year “our board of directors looked at over 100 nominations that were sent in by directors of Big Brothers Big Sisters chapters throughout the country. Needless to say there were many outstanding candidates, however we could only chose one to receive the “mentor of the year award.”

I am proud to award this year’s mentor of the year award to Miss Madison Grace. Madison has been volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters for over eight years. She has significant experience as an organizational leader, coalition builder, fund raiser, and advocate. Her contributions to this organization go above and beyond that of any other volunteer.

Madison has been an outstanding Big Sister to many children throughout the years. Her drive and want to make a difference in the life of a child is truly shown by her positive attitude and selfless heart. Madison is wise enough to make sense of the world, and humble enough to connect with anyone. It is without a doubt, that people truly admire Madison. Along with her directors nomination for the “volunteer of the year award” Madison also had many nominations from children she has worked with in the past.

“Madison made me feel more confident and inspired me to reach my dreams” said a young girl who calls Madison her “role-model”. It is clear to all who know Madison how much of an inspiration she is to these children. Even with working a full time job and balancing her personal life, Madison fines the time to volunteer usually five times a week at her local Big Brothers Big Sisters chapter located in Washington, D.C.

Madison is undoubtedly very deserving of this honor and we are more than pleased to have such inspirational individuals like her volunteering within our organization.

As Big Brothers Big Sisters continues to grow and touch the lives of many children in the years to come we as an organization know that Madison will continue to encourage everyone she meets as well as continue to be a large part of our Big Brothers Big Sisters family.

On behalf of the entire Big Brothers Big Sisters community I would like to congratulate Miss Madison Grace on receiving the 2009 “Volunteer of the Year Award”.

Congratulations Madison!