One Family’s Big Brother/Sister Program is one of many efforts within a continuum of care that exists for the most emotionally fragile children in our Youth Division. Those who have lost a parent or sibling as a result of a terror attack are paired with university-aged students who act as Big Brothers or Sisters. They act as a support system to help the children address the special difficulties of growing up in painfully deprived circumstances, through direct and personal interaction and relationships.
This program serves a dual purpose. For the children, it transmits the message that someone cares and will always be there specifically for them, offering friendship and emotional support. For the Big Brother or Sister, it creates opportunities to serve OneFamily in monitoring the child’s recovery process and their specific needs, whether they be material, educational, medical or psychological.
The Big Brother/Sister Program pairs those children and teens most in need of strong emotional guidance with Big Brothers and Sisters who become just that - caring, mature role models, always at their side whether in person, by phone, or by social networking media. Their time together can include fun excursions, help with school work, and participation in joint gatherings with similarly bereaved and injured children and their Big Brothers and Sisters.
The Big Brothers and Sisters are also present for the child’s birthday, and on the memorial day for the family member whom the child has lost. They are always prepared to offer support and nurturing, whenever and however the children may need them.
Click here for pictures from OneFamily's Big Brothers and Big Sisters Program