Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut Celebrates Pride Month

HARTFORD – During Pride Month, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut (BBBS of CT) affirms its commitment to providing support for children and youth and volunteers throughout the state who identify with the LGBTQ+ community.

The organization is seeking applications from Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Little Brothers and Little Sisters who identify with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, gender expressions, cultures and backgrounds to be part of its Community Based, Site Based, Foster Grandparent and Big Futures programs.

“Our agency is dedicated to an open environment that celebrates everyone. We seek positive adult mentors for young people of all backgrounds so they get the guidance and support they need and deserve,” said Andy Fleischmann, CEO of BBBS of CT. “When we support diversity, it encourages young people to believe in and be their best selves. We invite members of the LGBTQ+ community interested in empowering children in need to become volunteers with us.”

Recent studies have shown that young people matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister develop increased confidence and resilience. 94% of children report that their mentor is a “very important adult” in their life.

“We are grateful to our LGBTQ+ volunteers, who are making a difference in our children’s lives,” said Tara Gill, Director of Community Based Programs. “Our mentees have benefitted immensely from having caring Big Brothers and Big Sisters in their lives. They are more likely to perform well in school, stay away from alcohol and drugs and avoid getting in trouble.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut encourages prospective volunteers, parents and guardians interested in enrolling to visit ctbigs.org.