Jackson is seen here with her family, LAMS and LAHS students Kellen and Allie, and husband Matt, the Division Leader of MST and a board member of the Los Alamos Community Foundation. Courtesy photo
BBBS News:
Being Big means so much when you’re little. One local program needs your help. Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Mexico needs adults who have just four hours a month to spend with local youth. They have a variety of programs designed around your schedule.
Megan Jackson, our BBBSNM Program Specialist in Los Alamos, is here to help. “At Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Mexico, we work really hard to create matches that last,” Jackson said. “Our hope is to spark a friendship that can last a lifetime.”
That work includes taking the time to interview parents, kids, and volunteers so they can make sure personalities, values, and interests are a good fit. If you like art, they’ll match you will a child that likes art as well. Cars, animals, music, or football more your style? They know just the child. That boots-on-the -ground approach starts a firm foundation to build upon.
The hard part is knowing that there are many kids who must wait for a match. BBBSNM seeks the help of our community residents and employees, so no child is left on a waitlist. It is hard on staff when they see a child is ready, but they have no available adults to fill the gap.
As soon as adults are interested in the program, staff can assist in making those matches happen.
“There are so many ways for adults to get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters,” Jackson said. “Since we’re a volunteer-based organization, we truly couldn’t serve the youth in our communities without them.”
Maybe you’d like to ease into the program? How about becoming a “Site-Based,” volunteer. This program is often referred to as “lunch buddies,” when adults meet during the child’s lunch period at their school. You can show up and enjoy your lunch, play a board game, and even get a little recess time. You might just be the most popular person on the playground that day!
A second option is their “Community-Based,” program. Here, matches spend time together outside of school- often doing things around town like going to a movie at SALA, playing at the park, taking a dog for a walk, or visiting a museum or community event. These activities can become a friendship that can last for years. Jackson is also looking into utilizing high school students for BBBSNM programs.
The program you choose is up to you, but for each one the mission is the same, “To create and support one-on-one mentorships that ignite the power and promise of youth.” BBBSNM knows that meeting for one hour per week can have a positive influence and can make a real difference in a child’s life.
If donating time isn’t in your schedule, how about some time on the links? The fundraiser for Los Alamos and Rio Arriba Counties-The 2025 Drive For Matches Golf Tournament is coming up fast. The funds raised at this tournament directly impact programs in both counties. To learn more, visit https://secure.qgiv.com/event/laragolf/
Jackson was asked to share a story about the program, and it was hard for her to just pick one. “One of my favorites is a match that started back in 2018—they’ve stayed connected through a lot-sticking together through COVID and when the volunteer spent two years working overseas,” Jackson said. “Their connection has remained so strong.”
There are 29 matches currently in Los Alamos and Jackson is always out to find new Bigs and Littles for the program. If you’re interested in volunteering, you can call or email Megan or check out the BBBSNM website to get the bigger view of all that Big Brothers Big Sisters has to offer. BBBSNM serves nearly every county in New Mexico, and there are lots of ways to get involved. You might see her at community events, just look for the green and white logo.
