The Calhoun Journal is proud to provide a monthly report that shines a spotlight on the amazing activities of our Local Calhoun County non-profits. This dedicated website provides the chance that these groups can showcase their impressive initiatives, achievements and the crucial services they provide to the community. By highlighting the unstoppable efforts of these non-profits we seek to bring awareness and inspire the support they need for their mission. If you are a representative of an organization that is non-profit located in Calhoun County and wish to be featured on our website We invite you to fill out the quick form. Let’s all be proud of and promote the positive impact of local non-profit organizations.
January 2023 Spotlight on Non-Profit
Calhoun County, AL Calhoun County, AlabamaNortheast Alabama Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Northeast Alabama, a nonprofit organisation dedicated to establishing and sustaining one-to-one mentoring relationships and is currently looking for male volunteers to make an impactful contribution to the lives of children in the area. The organization, which has been in operation since its inception, played a significant role in connecting children struggling with adversity with positive, safe mentors. This has led to improved academic performance, improved behavior, greater self-esteem and much more.
Since the demand of male tutors a great need, BBBS emphasizes the importance of men who volunteer their time to positively impact the lives of young children. Research has proven that mentoring relationships play an important influence on the development of children through offering guidance, support, and a sense of community. The organization encourages men from the community to look into being Big Brothers, as they are in high demand. With only a few hours every month, volunteers will be able to give children the gift of friendship that will positively impact their lives.
Big Brothers Big Sisters operates with a mission to provide children with disabilities with durable and long-lasting professionally supported one-on-one relationships. The company believes that these relationships will transform lives and last forever. The program of mentorship aims to help children navigate obstacles and achieving their full potential.
In addition to the request for volunteer help, BBBS is excited to reveal their upcoming charity event “Mardi Mardi Gras in 2024!” The event will be held at 210 At The Tracks in Gadsden on 3 February 2024. The event’s proceeds directly support local youth with aid for mental health and future workforce development and STEM education programs.
Katrina Lawless-Graben is who is the CEO for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Alabama, personally invites people to join in “Mardi Mardi Gras 2024!” The event serves as an opportunity for the community to help the organization’s efforts to provide vital services to children who live in communities.
BBBS stressed the impact of private donations in their capacity to attract to screen, match, and foster mentorship relationships. The charity has served 235 children between the ages of 8 and 21 in Etowah, Calhoun, Cherokee, DeKalb, and Talladega counties. The impact assessments they conducted in October 2023 showed significant improvement in life of BBBS students as well as High School mentors.
The organization is running at full capacity, however it there is a constant demands for their services. Referrals come from many sources, such as groups homes, Juvenile Justice, and the Department of Human Resources (DHR). To meet the increasing need, BBBS is actively seeking corporate partners, volunteers, and sponsors.
The lack in male role models has resulted in an endless waiting list for “Littles waiting to be mentored,” particularly boys between the ages of 7-14. The boys are in search of positive role models to guide them through different aspects of their lives such as learning to fish, to playing instruments or participating in sports. There’s less waiting on girls as there are women who mentor them. However, do not let that stop women from donating too!
If you’re looking to help in Calhoun County please contact Program Mgr Misty Gardner and she will assist you in completing the application process. People who are who are interested in making an impact on the lives of youth in our community by being a mentor, or donating to BBBS through donations or sponsorship are able to contact the BBBS group at the following addresses:
Office Address:
1400 Noble Street
Anniston, AL 36201
Telephone #: (256-241-3525 (Office hours are by appointment)
Address for Mailing:
PO Box 993
Gadsden, AL 35902
Main Office:
801 East Broad Street
Gadsden, AL 35903
Phone: 256-546-5079 (Office hours: 9-5)
For more details about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Alabama go to their site on www.bbbsneal.org
