Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Michigan
The Impact of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Michigan:
Since 1970 Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Michigan (Bigs) has served over 13,000 children in five counties in northwestern Michigan (Antrim, Charlevoix, Emmet, Grand Traverse and Kalkaska). Currently Bigs serves over 300 children per year, changing outcomes and reversing the downward spiral brought on by poverty and the absence of consistent adult guidance.
In summer 2021, the Discovery Center & Pier partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Norther Michigan to launched a new program to provide free recreational opportunities to their clients. The goal of the program was to introduce kids – that wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity – to different aspects of the Great Lakes through fun recreational experiences. Many of these youth come away inspired, and we are now working to create pathways for these youth into programs offered by our nonprofit partners in areas that interest them, such as wooden boat building, navigation, and marine technology.
“The Discovery Center has provided both my Little sister and me with unique and fun opportunities this summer. We thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon fishing trip with Alonzo and crew. Every person on the boat caught a fish and we were even able to take home our fileted trout! The second experience was a ride aboard the Tall Ship Manitou. The crew was fun and engaging allowing us to lend a hand in raising the sails as well as providing a lot of great info and commentary on the ship and sailing. The bonus on that excursion was the Moomers ice cream. As part of Big Brothers Bigs Sisters, we are so grateful to the Discovery Center for the unparalleled opportunities they provide to get out on the water and enjoy the beauty that surrounds us here in Northern Michigan.”
-SUSAN F.,
Community Member and Big Sister