Photo provided Big sister Erin Grishaber and little sister Anne, both of Niles, participated in the Big Brothers Big Sisters fishing day Saturday in Bridgman.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien & Cass teamed up Saturday with Berrien County Trophy Toms to hold a fishing event for the mentors and mentees of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program at Lake Township Park in Bridgman.

“We were delighted to have the opportunity to have our ‘bigs’ and ‘littles’ do something together,” said Christina Frank, executive director of Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Berrien County Trophy Toms provided lunch for participants as well as the bait and fishing poles. Each child also received a tackle box, and prizes were awarded for biggest fish, smallest fish and most fish caught during the four-hour-long activity. Frank says this was a special experience for the mentees.

“A lot of the kids never had the chance to go fishing before, so it was a good experience for them,” said Frank, who estimated that about 25 kids attended the event.

This is the first event of its kind for Big Brothers Big Sisters, as well as the first time Berrien County Trophy Toms chose to team up with another organization for the occasion.

“Big Brothers Big Sisters really appreciates the support of the Berrien County Trophy Toms and looks forward to working with them on similar activities in the future,” she said.
Big Brothers Big Sisters is gearing up for the 2012-2013 school year and aims to expand the program.

“We are always looking for good volunteers,” Frank said. “We have lunch programs in 17 different school buildings throughout Berrien and Cass County.”

Frank said the organization tries to hold at least four such events a year. Big Brothers Big Sisters mentors children ages 6 to 12 years old.

“The goal for Big Brother and Big Sister mentors in all the BBBS programs is to help build the child’s self-confidence, encourage better school performance and help each child have a brighter view of his/her future,” Frank said.

Inquiries are welcome for prospective volunteers at info@bbbsofbc.org, or visit BBBS website www.bbbsofbc.org to learn more.