The Ocala Police Department and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Marion County (BBBS) have partnered to bring a mentoring program to children in Marion County.
The program, Bigs in Blue/Bigs with Badges, is a national initiative that is designed to improve communication and understanding between law enforcement agencies and the communities that they serve. Police officers and civilian staff (Bigs) are matched with local children (Littles) for a one-on-one relationship that provides support, friendship, and eventual academic improvements.
Bigs visit their Littles twice a month and spend time together participating in activities that they both enjoy, such as playing sports, going to the library or museum, or working on homework together.
To kick off the partnership, police chief Mike Balken was the first member of OPD to be matched with his Little Brother, Michael.
“I’m looking forward to building a relationship with him, being a mentor to him, and having fun together,” said Balken.
Balken added, “Here at Ocala Police Department, we have a lot of remarkable role models who can share life experiences and practical skills with some of our youth. I hope more men and women in our agency and throughout the community get involved because, through this program, they can truly make a positive difference in a child’s life.”
On Saturday, May 7, BBBS hosted a launch event at the MLK First Responders Campus. During the event, attendees were able to learn about the mentoring services that are available for the youth in Marion County.
The Ocala Police Department shared several pictures from the launch event on its Facebook webpage.
In a message on Facebook, Balken said, “Folks – if you’re reading this, please consider volunteering to be a Big Brother or Big Sister. There are so many more Little’s out there that need you. Let’s do something incredible together.”