Q&A with Becky James-Hatter
Meet the President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri, Becky James-Hatter.
Why are you so passionate about Big Brothers Big Sisters?
"I am not exactly sure, but I can tell you that it is very personal to me. I guess it goes back to the lessons I learned growing up. I grew up in a very small town in rural Louisiana with about 800 people, a cotton gin and a blinking light. But in that little town I learned a lot of great lessons that I feel compelled to pass along. As kids, my parents, aunts, uncles and neighborhood adults watched after us. They talked to us – challenged us. They took us places and showed us things. They taught us how to paint, play the ukulele, every card game you can imagine and chess. We had pets – dogs, horses, cows, rabbits. We ran around freely with no concerns. It was a time when you could ride your bike without a helmet and collect insects under the street lights until midnight. We were encouraged to think, be creative, have an opinion and take care of those who needed a hand up. We were taught to stand up for something and sometimes, somebody. We were exposed to politics, visited museums, and took summer vacations. I think a lot about growing up in that small town with my brother and sister and all my cousins - we were loved and cared for by the adults and I want so much for every child to enjoy that same sense of freedom, adventure and love. Yep, it’s personal and I learned it all as a child. Now, fulfilling the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters is the very best way I can honor all those who have invested so much in me."
If you would like to comment or ask a question, contact Becky James-Hatter by email at bjames@bbbsemo.org or by phone at (314) 361-5900.
If you have a suggestion for a Question of the Month, contact Mary Jane Daum by email at mdaum@bbbsemo.org or by phone at (314) 361-5900.
