The check presentation the Grater Grand Island Community Foundation did with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Nebraska for a grant for their new program, "Bigs with Badges." (Courtesy)
GRAND ISLAND — The Greater Grand Island Community Foundation is excited to announce a $12,000 donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Nebraska to launch their innovative new program, “Bigs with Badges.” This program aims to connect first responders and law enforcement officers with young people in the community, fostering mentorship, trust, and positive relationships.
The donation, made through a discretionary grant from the Fund for Greater Grand Island, reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to creating meaningful community impact.
“We are proud to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Nebraska in their efforts to build stronger bonds between youth and first responders,” said Melissa DeLaet, CEO of the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation. “This program is a unique opportunity to help bridge gaps and create lasting change.”
The “Bigs with Badges” program aims to strengthen the connection between local youth, law enforcement, firefighters, and other first responders. The program seeks to foster goodwill, understanding, and cooperation by establishing one-to-one mentoring relationships. Chief Kevin Denney of the Grand Island Police Department, a strong advocate for improving community relationships, has committed to being one of the first mentors in the program, and additional officers are being recruited to participate.
Through this program, officers will meet regularly with their “Littles” to provide emotional support, encouragement, and guidance while helping young people realize their full potential. “This initiative is an exciting step toward building a more inclusive, supportive
community,” said Chief Denney. “By positively connecting with youth, we can create a safer, stronger future for all.”
The Bigs with Badges program addresses the ongoing need for positive relationships between youth and law enforcement, particularly for male-identifying youth, who often face challenges finding mentors. With the support of this funding, BBBS anticipates launching the program in the next three months, starting with at least three mentor matches.
This initiative aligns with the Foundation’s vision to support innovative solutions for community challenges and improve the lives of young people in Hall County. The program will also help reduce the number of youth waiting for mentors while improving perceptions between youth and officers.
“Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Nebraska is committed to creating transformative relationships that support youth in reaching their fullest potential,” said Brenna Poindexter, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Nebraska. “With the launch of Bigs with Badges, we are excited to engage youth with trusted mentors who can have a lasting, positive impact on their lives.”
“The partnership between the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and local law enforcement represents a creative effort to invest in the Greater Grand Island community’s future,” said DeLaet. “Together, we are building stronger connections and brighter futures for Hall County’s youth.”
For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Nebraska and how to get involved with the Bigs with Badges program, please visit www.mentorcentral.org.
For more information on the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation and its programs, visit GICF.org or contact the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation at (308) 381-7767.
