Big Brothers Big Sisters is looking for 70 new volunteer mentors to double the number of kids served in its program.

A recruitment event is being held Thursday, October 20, 2011, 5:30-6:30 p. m. at Cyrus Greene Recreation Center, 2101 E. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Those interested in attending should RSVP to Laura Saunders, (813) 769-3606 or  laura.saunders@bbbsfl.org.

About a year ago, Judges Ashley Moody and Lisa Campbell, made a plea to the community to step forward and become mentors for youths between the ages of 5 and 16. Their purpose was to make a difference in the lives of kids who had been arrested or are living in neighborhoods with a high level of juvenile delinquency.

With a 3-year grant from the Department of Juvenile Justice, Big Brothers Big Sisters launched the Mentoring Alternative Perspective Program (MAPP).

MAPP is now moving into its second year. Last year, 97% of the youth in the MAPP program were promoted to the next grade level and 94% stayed out of the juvenile justice system.
Thursday’s meeting is open to the public and male mentors are especially needed.

Those in attendance will hear from people directly involved in the MAPP program and Judge Campbell will talk about the important role mentors are playing in helping kids get back on a positive path.