Part of growing up is having that comfort and security that there is someone you can turn to in a time of need.  The need for a mentor or someone you can look up to can sometimes make all the difference in the world for a young person. 

For me, being the oldest of 4 siblings and never having an olders sibling, I always felt surrounded by people who were my "mentors" in some way.  Be it a teacher, a cousin, aunt or neighbor – I thankfully never had to worry about having a positive role model within arms reach. 

You may have heard of the organization Big Brothers Big Sisters before but what you may not realize is that for many Latino/Hispanic young people, their access to a positive role model they can related to is nonexistent.  Many of them who are facing cultural struggles in their youth can fall into the wrong paths of drugs, truancy, and other risky behaviors that will deter them from growing up ina positive environment.

Big
Brothers Big Sisters volunteers come from all walks of life. Some are bus
drivers, waitresses, business owners, stay-at-home moms, lawyers, nurses and
construction workers. They are college students and retirees.  What makes this volunteer opportunity terrific is that you don’t need special training or a degree
to positively influence a child. You already have what it takes to be a great role
model.

I'm excited to announce my participation in a three-post series about this amazing volunteer opportunity that truly makes a difference in the lives of young people.

For more information on Big Brother Big Sisters visit www.latinobigs.org or www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.  You can also connect with them on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter and  join Latina Mom Bloggers and Big Brothers and Big Sisters on Wednesday, October 10 from 7- 8:00 pm ET for a Twitter chat! There will be loads of info with #latinobigs about regarding Latino ‘littles’ and their need for ‘Big’ volunteers!

{Disclosure: This is part of a supported campaign with Latina Mom Bloggers and Big Brothers Big Sisters. However, all opinions expressed are my own.}