In the 2017-18 school year, Big Brothers Big Sisters began working with ninth graders and 10th graders at Davie County High School.

The program is called SMART Mentoring (Students Maximizing Achievement, Relationships and Time).

Big Brothers Big Sisters’ goal is to serve ninth and 10th graders in a one-to-one mentoring relationship with a focus on improving their academic status.

Bigs will visit their Littles during their SMART lunch period (11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) once a week for one year, and a group mentoring session will take place once a month.

In the last month, Big Brothers Big Sisters has matched five Davie High students with mentors, i.e., graduation coaches.

“These matches will enjoy their time with each other during the students’ smart lunch and develop a strong and enduring relationship that has a focus on the students’ academic future,” said Jenna Hendricks, director of programs.

Ninth and tenth grade students matched with a mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters for all four years of high school increase their graduation rate to 96 percent.

“By providing these students with a one-to-one mentor who comes into the school during the day to assist with academic needs and building a friendship, Big Brothers Big Sisters will be able to change their lives for the better, forever. I encourage those who have a heart for children and a passion to see the next generation succeed to contact our agency,” Hendricks said.

Volunteer at bbbsnc.org/davie or call 336-751-9906