Mentors making a difference

This afternoon, I'll be attending a meeting of the Big Brothers Big Sisters' Latino Mentoring Advisory Council.

We haven't met since spring, so it's important we come away with some momentum in planning a fall networking event to spread the word about the agency and its nationally acclaimed mentoring programs. I've been a member of the advisory council since its inception a couple years ago. We're a collection of professionals and community members who advise the BBBS staff on ways to recruit more so-called Bigs (caring adults) who can be mentors to Littles and incorporate cultural sensitivity into its training of volunteers.

The agency has made it a priority to serve the rapidly growing Latino population in the Portland-Vancouver metro area. The biggest challenge: recruiting more adult mentors. Believe me, there's no shortage of kids waiting to be matched up.

Take a couple minutes to watch the video. And if there's any way you can help -- with a referral, a donation, or as a volunteer yourself -- please get in touch with me or the agency: www.bbbsnorthwest.org