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POLK COUNTY—Big Brothers Big Sisters of Polk County has announced its fall fundraising drive to support underserved boys and girls in the area. 

The organization, which was voted the BEST small region in the USA at last fall’s national convention, currently has 17 youths enrolled in their community-based program. This program asks each “Big” to spend two to four hours a month with their “Little” in one-on-one activities they jointly plan. 

The organization’s High School Mentor program has also been reinstated, providing at-risk children with a solid role model and much-needed help working through the hurdles of school. 

The organization is asking for community support as they prepare for their Christmas and Fall programs. With only 7% of their money coming from individual donations, local support is needed to help children in the county. Contributions can be addressed to BBBS Polk County, PO Box 140, Tryon, NC, or BBBS of WNC, 50 S French Broad Ave. Ste 213, Asheville, NC. 

The organization is also seeking men and women to join their Big’s mentoring program. With eight to ten children currently on the waiting list, most of whom are in the 6-16-year-old age group, the program is available for anyone willing to assist. According to last year’s national Youth Outcome Surveys, 90% of children in the program had improved self-confidence, 86% showed improvement in school behavior and 79% showed improved problem-solving nationwide. 

For more information, contact Program Coordinator Jessica Toney or Council Chairman Bill Smith at (864) 608-9807 or via email at jessica@bbbswnc.org.