(This update was added on June 25, 2020.)
On June 24, Gov. Roy Cooper extended Phase 2 through July 17 and is requiring anyone older than 11 to wear a face covering in public. We are extending, through July 17, our guideline of no outings where the Little is transported in the Big’s vehicle. By doing this, we will comply with social distancing, attempts to reduce the spread of the virus, and attempts to get kids back to a normal school routine in August. Some matches have had very successful visits in the Little’s yard, while social distancing, as a way to see each other in person.
Important reminder: An overnight activity cannot occur before the 1-year point. After the 1-year point, the Big must contact their Program Coordinator 2 weeks in advance to request approval for the overnight, obtain a Permission form, and the Big and parent/guardian must sign the form and return it to the Program Coordinator before the overnight. Please do not plan the details of an overnight outing with your Little before you have it approved. No overnights are being approved during Covid Phase 2.
Jamye Davis, Assistant Director
(This update was added on May 7, 2020.)
In accordance with Governor Cooper’s executive order on May 5, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina has extended its suspension of all face-to-face match activities until May 22. We will share updates on or before May 22 when Governor Cooper makes a further announcement.
There is nothing more important that ensuring our Big Brothers, Big Sisters and all our Littles remain safe. As a team, we will continue to follow recommended safe practices during this time and proceed deliberately but with ample caution.
Lelia Duncan, Executive Director
(The post was published on March 17, 2020.)
With the rapidly developing situation concerning the COVID outbreak, we have decided that for the safety of the Littles, families and Bigs, we need to suspend all face-to-face match activities, as well as all volunteer interviews and match meetings, until March 30. Hopefully, this decision, along with the school closings and all of the other restrictions, will help to prevent the further spread of the COVID virus.
Our Match Support staff will be reaching out to Big, Parents, Guardians and Littles to assist with ways for the Littles and Bigs to stay connected during this time. Our goal is also to help connect you with the resources that your family might need during this time.
To our Big Brother and Big Sister applicants, we really appreciate your willingness to become a Big Brother or Big Sister volunteer. But, during this unprecedented situation, we think it is best to ask for your patience in waiting to complete the enrollment and matching process. We’ll be back in touch.
If you have any questions or concerns about this, please call me at (828) 253-1470. Also, please check our Facebook and our website – bbbswnc.org – for updates and/or activity suggestions.
Robin Myer, Executive Director
