Atlanta's Biggest Role Models

Youth Mentoring Organization Looks to Honor Individuals Who Make a Difference in the Lives of Metro Atlanta Youth as Part of 50th Anniversary Celebration

ATLANTA, July 9, 2010 – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta (BBBSMA), the area’s leading youth mentoring organization, announced today a search to identify “Atlanta’s Biggest Role Models,” individuals who have dedicated their time and energy to improving the lives of and opportunities for Metro Atlanta youth. BBBSMA, which is celebrating 50 years of community impact in Atlanta, will honor selected individuals at its annual Legacy Awards Gala on Sept. 11, 2010. This is the first time community-nominated individuals will be recognized by BBBSMA at the Legacy Awards Gala.

The BBBSMA “Atlanta’s Biggest Role Models” program will honor everyday people who meet the following criteria: motivate Metro Atlanta youth to achieve a better life; serve as a positive example; offer friendship and support; and length of service. Nominees do not have to be affiliated with BBBSMA.

Individuals can nominate volunteers for their work with Metro Atlanta youth between now and Aug. 6, 2010. Nominations must be sent to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and a description that details the individual’s commitment to youth and volunteer activities. BBBSMA, along with its Board of Directors, will select two individuals to be honored based on the outlined criteria.

“Every day, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta encounters and works with unsung heroes – men and women who go the extra mile to ensure the best for our local youth,” said Janice McKenzie-Crayton, CEO, BBBSMA. “As part of our 50th anniversary celebration and Legacy event, we are proud to launch ‘Atlanta’s Biggest Role Model.’ It’s our way of honoring the big role that every day individuals play in making our community better.”

BBBSMA, an affiliate of the national organization, represents the “gold standard” in youth mentoring throughout 12 metro counties: Cherokee, Cobb, Paulding, Douglas, Fulton, Gwinnett, DeKalb, Clayton, Fayette, Henry, Butts and Rockdale. The agency serves more than 3,200 children annually, ages 6 to 18, in a one-to-one, professionally-supported relationship with a screened and specially-trained mentor. Over the years, the demand for its services among young boys and their caregivers has outpaced donor resources and the number of male volunteers in its system. In honor of its 50 year milestone, BBBSMA is waging a major campaign to engage more volunteers and supporters with the goal of reducing the numbers of children on its waiting list.

For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, to nominate an individual, volunteer opportunities or how to donate to the 50th Anniversary Fund, visit www.BBBSatl.org.