By Emily Rivard

When Stephanie Pichardo, a junior psychology major, joined Big Brothers Big Sisters through the University, she didn’t know what to expect.

“Last year was my first year and my Little [sister] was really shy,” said Pichardo. “It was really hard.”

However, by the end of the year, Pichardo had not only bonded with her Little, but also had seen her grow as a person. “One day we went outside to play and from that day on she opened up,” described Pichardo. “It was a really good feeling to see the transformation from beginning to end.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters Long Island was established in 1977 in order to provide positive adult influences to children in the area. “Big Brothers Big Sisters is a not-for-profit agency who provides children who could benefit from an additional caring adult in their life with a volunteer mentor,” said case manager Stacy Gordon.

The Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Long Island meet with their “Littles” on a regular basis to do things such as participate in sports events, playing games, join in gatherings with other Bigs and Littles, or just to talk. Big Brothers and Sisters provide children the opportunity to develop positive relationships with adults they trust.

“We get the chance to provide them with extra support, extra attention and an honest friendship with an adult and friend they can trust,” said Gordon.

University students in particular are an important part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Long Island in that they not only provide the attention and support the children need, but also the chance for the Littles to see that there is an opportunity for everyone to go to college.

“College students provide the perfect opportunity for these kids to see life in a different way,” said Gordon. “Besides a flexible schedule, college students are able to convey the value of higher education to the children in the program.”

Most Bigs agree that the best reward of any volunteer is the relationship that is developed with their Little. “One of the most touching moments is when you see your Little every week and they run up to you just to hug you and show their excitement to just see you,” said Gordon.

The Big Brothers and Sisters are also able to see the positive influence they have made in their Little’s life. “The most amazing feeling you get while being part of [Big Brothers Big Sisters] is at the end of the year when you sit down with your Little and just talk to them,” described Gordon. “You see the huge change both psychologically and emotionally that they have experienced for the better.”

“By the end of the year they open up and when you sit down with them, they’re so open, polite and sweet,” confirmed Pichardo. “They’ve matured so much. It’s an amazing transformation from beginning to end.”

Each week, the Big Brothers and Big Sisters from the University meet on campus and spend time with their Littles. Meetings between the University volunteers and children from Walnut Elementary school are held at Hagedorn Hall every Wednesday from 3:30 until 5 p.m.

The University site-based program is open to all students, of any major in any year. Students may apply to become a Big Brother or Big Sister with the BBBSLI Site Based Program by calling 516-731-7880.