Big for a Day: Big Brothers Big Sisters and Disney VoluntEARS

Big for a Day: Big Brothers Big Sisters and Disney VoluntEARS

Big for a Day: Big Brothers Big Sisters and Disney VoluntEARS

For a few hours, 12-year-old William had a big brother. While spending the afternoon with Ryan Brueckner of Big Brothers Big Sisters, William played games and ate at a food truck for the first time. Most of all, he had someone’s undivided attention as he explained his dreams of building a new computer.

There are more than 250 boys like William in the community who are on the waitlist for a mentor. Big Brothers Big Sisters works tirelessly year-round to recruit new volunteers to match with these youth. The nonprofit also teams up with local companies to host fun activities for them as they wait.

Last month, Big Brothers Big Sisters invited 30 boys on the waitlist to its Santa Ana headquarters for a Big for a Day carnival bash. Children were matched with employees, friends and a special group of Disney VoluntEARS for an action-packed afternoon. Matches like William and his “Big for a Day” Ryan enjoyed one-on-one time together as they raced through an inflatable obstacle course and chowed down on TK Burgers.

A hands-on activity also taught Littles about the importance of community service. Between jumps in the bounce house, matches created Valentine’s Day cards and care packages for local seniors at an arts and crafts station. Rounding out the experience was a photobooth, face-painting and freshly spun cotton candy. A prize booth ensured that all 30 boys went home with big smiles and fun memories.

Want to learn more about being a mentor to a child like William? Click here to get started!

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