A Seasonal Assistance and Cheer Grant from the Polk County Community Foundation funded a Christmas party for the Big Brothers Big Sisters community program, gift cards for all Littles, and grocery gift cards for all families served by the organization. A donation from the Arthur M. and Frances H. Wilhelm Fund at the Foundation supplemented party expenses for Littles and their volunteer Bigs. BBBS is very grateful to the Polk County Community Foundation and their donors for this extra dose of support during the holidays.

The seasonal grants are awarded to area nonprofits to help support individuals and families who may need assistance during the holiday season, enhancing the quality of life for recipients in our community. Big Brothers Big Sisters is fortunate to share this bounty with participants in their programs and be able to provide extra food while students are home from school on Christmas break.

Big Sister Lynne Parsons again hosted the party at her beautiful Morning Glory Farm. Postponed from the previous weekend due to snowy weather, the event was well attended on a beautiful day full of activities. Guests enjoyed an afternoon of camaraderie, with refreshments, crafts, games and plenty of fun. Lively rounds of cornhole games, making s’mores at the bonfire and paddleboating were great outdoor activities. Everyone appreciated the food provided by Big Sister and BBBS Outreach Coordinator Mary Prioleau, and Big Sister Sue Anderson and her Little Sister Nathalie.

In January the Polk County branch of Big Brothers Big Sisters will celebrate their 15^th year of bringing volunteers and youth together to benefit children facing adversity. The positive impacts are multifold, with Littles improving in school performance and attendance, in relationships with others, in self-confidence, and they are influenced to make better choices.

Big Brothers Big Sisters recognizes that it takes an extended network of volunteers, community contacts, and supporters for their success. There is always a waiting list of children hoping for a Big Brother or Big Sister in the school or community-based programs.

For more information about BBBS, please call 828-859-9230, 899-9699, or email polk@bbbswnc.org. Donations are tax-deductible, and end of year gifts are gladly accepted at BBBS, 301 N. Trade St, Tryon, NC 28782 or via secure online donation at www.bbbswnc.org.

Submitted by Karen Dacey