Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters Ranks Top in Nation

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America has named Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters the 2009 Agency of the Year. Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters is the number one leader among the organization’s small-market Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies across the nation.

“I am proud to be a part of a community committed to helping our children succeed,” said Julie Cervantes-Salomons, Executive Director. “This award says as much about our community of supporters as it does about the agency itself.  We couldn’t do it alone. It was only possible thanks to our families, volunteers, donors and partners.”

 As the agency embarks on its 40^th year, Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters has a history of steady growth, quality programs and thousands of lives changed for the better. In the last 6 years, the organization has more than doubled the number of youth served while expanding outreach to children in Title 1 schools, rural communities and children with an incarcerated parent.

 Following the national conference, the organization is re-committed to creating longer stronger Big and Little matches knowing that the longer matches stay together the more positive the outcomes for youth.

 “Heartland Big Brothers Big Sisters is a pacesetter that collaborates with foundations, corporate and individual donors on an effective strategic plan to efficiently serve Bigs, Littles and families, creating long-term, results-focused mentoring relationships that help put children on the path to success,” said Judy Vredenburgh, President and Chief Executive Officer, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.