Kiyija named new Big Brothers Big Sisters director

Elysia Kiyija has been selected as the new Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon, a program of J Bar J Youth Services. Elysia, formerly with Hope for African Children in Uganda, has been with Big Brothers Big Sisters making matches and serving kids and families since 2015.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon matches 400 kids with an adult mentor each year. The organization is gearing up for a busy 2017-18 year with an increase in the projected number of families requesting mentorship matches.

Kiyija said she believes, “Every child needs a positive adult role model in their life. Kids benefit from having a mentor and families are grateful for the additional support.”

Kids who have mentors consistently report an increase in self-confidence, improved relationship with parents, and they believe they will graduate high school and go on to attend and graduate college.

J Bar J Youth Services is a collection of programs for at risk youth, and is the local sponsor for the national Big Brother Big Sisters program. The other programs of J Bar J include J Bar J Boys Ranch, The Academy at Sisters, Safe Families for Children, Cascade Youth & Family Center with the LOFT, and most recently Grandma’s House.

Executive Director Stephanie Alvstad says “Elysia is a proven leader and a hands on advocate for kids and families. We are happy to have her in a leadership role with Big Brother Big Sisters of Central Oregon.”

You can support Big Brothers Big Sisters by becoming a mentor. For more information go to BBBSCO.ORG.

Big Brothers is a 21 Cares for Kids partner.