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During these tough economic times it’s easy for the non-essentials (dinner out, gym memberships, vacations, etc.) to go by the wayside. But for two dedicated volunteers it’s only served as a reminder that their services are needed even more.

The Florida State Association of Big Brothers Big Sisters is recognizing two outstanding volunteers for their dedication as mentors to children in need. Volunteers typically spend a few hours a month with a child, enjoying simple things, from playing catch, baking cookies, or helping with homework. But many times, our ‘Bigs’ go the extra mile for their ‘Littles’. It’s our honor to highlight the work of two special volunteers during National Volunteer Appreciation Week (April 18-25). The two will represent Florida as other state’s winners vie for the National Big Brother and Big Sister of the Year Award, which will be honored at the Big Brothers Big Sisters National Convention in Miami this summer.

Big Sister of the Year: Judy Dickerson, Pasco County
Judy Dickerson is a retired teacher, and it was her passion to help children that prompted her to volunteer as a Big Sister. When Judy met 11-year-old Ashley, Ashley would look at the floor the entire time and she barely spoke a word. Their rocky start didn’t last long; Judy encouraged Ashley to become more social, showed her the joy of participating in sports and cheerleading (Ashley made the squad!) and Ashley’s self-esteem improved. When Judy found out Ashley was struggling in school, she made a special effort to help Ashley with grammar and the tough subjects. Ashley’s grades improved so much, she was named ‘Turn Around Student of the Year’ in Pasco County. In addition to the difficulties she had to overcome socially and academically, Ashley had to deal with an unstable home life. At one time, Ashley, along with her mother and brothers were forced to live in the family car. They eventually ended up in a in a homeless shelter in a different county and keeping track of the family was often difficult. But that didn’t deter Judy. Ashley knew she could depend on Judy to be the one constant in her life. Two years later, their bond is stronger than ever. Ashley now talks about being a doctor and told Judy that when she grows up and has her own house, Judy can move in with her…and she will take care of Judy ‘just like Judy takes care of me now’.

Big Brother of the Year: Roger Covey, Pinellas County
Roger Covey, a physical therapist, was matched two years ago with his then 12-year-old Little Brother Shaq, who was being raised by his grandmother. Because of problems when he was very young, Shaq was placed in a school for children with behavioral problems. But it didn’t deter Roger from making it his mission to provide Shaq with the things we all desire when we are trying to grow. He took an interest in what was important to Shaq, championed his cause, listened to his concerns and supported him through the setbacks. Most of all, Roger believed in Shaq. He told Roger he wanted to attend a “normal” school, close to home, with his neighborhood friends, so Roger explored the possibilities and with input from Shaq’s grandmother, his teachers and school counselors, behavioral and academic goals were set. The two also attended community workshops on Anger Management and Goal Setting, which proved to be invaluable. Shaq learned to handle conflicts in a mature manner, earned the respect of those in authority and his fellow students and performed well academically. After nearly a year of sustained effort, Shaq achieved his goal – the chance to attend a mainstream school near his home. These days, Shaq is an honor roll student, was recently awarded “Student of the Month”, and received an award from St. Petersburg College that recognizes the academic excellence of minority students. In the midst of all the hard work, Roger and Shaq still make time for fun, like bowling, seeing movies and attending local sporting events. While they laugh and lovingly make fun of each other, they both admit they trust each other and look forward to a continuing the momentum of building a lasting friendship.