The pandemic actually has provided one benefit to Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Laurel Region.
Instead of offering twice-yearly, in-person information sessions for prospective “Bigs,” the organization now has ongoing virtual sessions.
As a result, “we’re making more matches than ever,” said Community Relations and Events Director Ali Iezzi.
Right now, the organization also is looking for another kind of volunteer — people willing to sing, dance, juggle or share any other creative gift for a virtual “Big Talent” show.
Anyone can enter. There is no fee.
“Dancing, singing, art, music, fire dancing, miming, baking, lip (synching), rapping, poetry reading, juggling, magic, blowing bubbles, and on and on. The sky’s the limit,” according to a release. “Time to get creative, have a good time, a good laugh, and share your gifts and talents.”
Video entries of 5 minutes or less can be sent to the organization by email or Google Drive by 5 p.m. March 15. A photo of the performer and a short description of the act should accompany the video.
“Think outside the box,” Iezzi said. “Even a video of a baby who’s a talented bubble-blower or a video of your pet is great. Personally, I would vote for cute.
“It’s a perfect opportunity for older people who learned a musical instrument, or learned to knit or crochet or developed other talents in ways that we don’t do so much any more,” she added.
The talent show will be live from 8 a.m. March 19 through 5 p.m. March 28.
Viewers will be able to vote for favorites by making a donation. Each dollar will count as one vote.
Top vote-getter will receive a $300 gift card to Sam’s Club/Walmart. Every entry will be entered into a random prize drawing for a $100 gift card.
While the list of children waiting to be paired with a mentor has been cut down during the pandemic, Iezzi said, there’s always a need for volunteers — especially men.
It’s not a first-come, first-served system, she noted — rather, Bigs and Littles are matched according to criteria including interests, location, age, parents’ preferences and others.
For more information on volunteering or on submitting a video or viewing the “Big Talent” show, visit bbbslr.org. Talent show inquiries also can be emailed to bigtalent@bbbslr.org.
