Bigs in Blue
Bigs in Blue is an innovative initiative which grants paid time off to
St. Louis police officers to support area youth. This program is a joint effort involving the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD), Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri (BBBSEMO) and the St. Louis Public Schools. We know that this new program, focused on the city’s littlest citizens, will have a big impact on the entire community.
How the Program Came to Be
The idea for the program originated with St. Louis Police Chief Dan Isom who reached out to Big Brothers Big Sisters and the city schools with a proposal for a collaborative effort. Once the Board of Police Commissioners gave its stamp of approval, Bigs in Blue was officially born. “The police department has a longstanding partnership with BBBS and had been searching for a program that would enable us to reach even more children,” said Chief Isom. “The Bigs in Blue program is another great opportunity for officers to build meaningful relationships with area children.”
How the Program Works
Police officers who wish to participate in the program will receive one hour of paid time off per week while serving as a Big Brother or Big Sister to a child who attends one of the St. Louis Public Schools. Initial plans call for teaming 25 officers with 25 Littles. These police Bigs will meet their Littles at their respective schools on a weekly basis.
The staff at BBBSEMO will manage the Bigs in Blue. Police who indicate interest in being a mentor will apply, be interviewed and then teamed with a Little, just like any other volunteer who comes through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Once a team is made, Big Brothers Big Sisters will continue to offer support, providing a professional staff member who will help the Big and the Little grow together in friendship.
How Can I Join Bigs in Blue?
To “join” means to make a donation, volunteer to be a Big Brother or Big Sister or to replicate this kind of program at your business or organization. To find out more information about how to initiate a mentoring program at your business, please contact Vivian Gibson at vgibson@bbbsemo.org or call 1-855-361-5900.
