Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon to host “The Big Draft” at Greg’s Grill

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon (BBBSCO) has launched "The Big Draft" recruitment campaign this week. It's a partnership with the NFL Inspire Change Initiative. Together, they aim to find mentors for 85 youth in Central Oregon currently on a waitlist.

"The Big Draft" is a national recruitment effort designed to address the critical need for mentors across the country. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon is mobilizing the community to create one-to-one mentoring. This week, they want to tap into the excitement of football season to encourage local residents to become volunteer mentors, known as "Bigs." Jenn Davis, program director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon, says the program allows mentors to connect with youth interests, especially in sports.

"We have boys come to our program every day who want to hang out with an adult mentor who wants to play sports or football around, go hiking and be outside," Davis said. "So it's just a really great, connection to the NFL draft."

As part of the campaign, BBBSCO is hosting a weeklong presence at Greg's Grill in the Old Mill District. Community members can visit the location from April 16 to April 22 to pick up information about becoming a Big and how mentorship impacts lives.

On April 23, BBBSCO staff and volunteers will be onsite to directly connect with the community, answer questions and assist interested individuals in taking the first step toward becoming a mentor.

Greg's Grill will also host a Give Back Day on April 23, donating a percentage of its sales to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon. This support will help fund local mentoring programs and ensure more children in the region receive a mentor. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon is a program of J Bar J Youth Services.

Community members interested in getting involved can visit the BBBSCO table at Greg's Grill through April 23. Individuals can meet the team and learn about becoming a Big on April 23. Dining at Greg's Grill on April 23 will also support BBBSCO through the give-back event.