Organization Celebrates Birthday

     Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee celebrated 40 years of service to the greater Knoxville area in July.
    The 40th Birthday festivities included a cookout with games, face painting, balloon animals, music, and a program celebrating the achievements of the organization’s outstanding volunteers, known as ‘Bigs,’ and their ‘Littles’.
    As part of the celebration, Big Brothers Big Sisters also named the Big Brother and Big Sister of the Year.
    Jim Eaton received the “Big Brother of the Year” award. Eaton has been matched with his Little Brother Matt for 10 years. He has provided a consistent positive influence in Matt’s life through his graduation from high school this year and his decision to enlist in the military.
    While talking about his Big Brother, Matt said, “He is smart in everything. He makes me feel like family.”
    Tandy Scheffler received the “Big Sister of the Year” award. Scheffler, who has been matched with her Little Sister Heaven for two years, is helping Heaven recognize the importance of working hard, especially in school.
    “My Little Sister Heaven has had as much impact on my life as I’ve had on hers,” said Scheffler.
    In reflecting on the 100 children on the waiting for a Big Brother or Big Sister, Scheffler said, “My hope is that one day we will reverse the waiting list so that there are 100 volunteers waiting to be matched with a child.”
    Throughout the festivities, the lifelong friendship formed between Bigs and Littles was apparent. There were several matches in attendance who have remained involved in each other’s lives for decades.
    “The 40th Birthday Party was a thrilling event for our organization,” said Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee CEO Myra Yeatman. “We came together to celebrate the friendships of past and present Bigs and Littles and look forward to many more years of success.”