Bandwidth partners with Big Brothers Big Sisters for Beyond School Walls program
Yesterday saw the kick-off of Bandwidth’s partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Triangle for the Beyond School Walls program. Coming from Centennial Middle School, the Littles were loudly greeted outside of Bandwidth’s offices with signs custom made for them before going up to the 5th floor for lunch and some get-to-know you time with their Bigs.
What is the Beyond School Walls Program?
A version of the Big Brothers Big Sisters’ classic school-based mentoring program, the Beyond School Walls program mixes it up by having students from local elementary and middle schools meet with their Bigs at the workplace instead of in the school. Meeting twice a month for two hours per session, the students will share a meal with the Bigs, have one-on-one time with them to talk, and engage in group activities together.
Bandwidth’s Commitment to the Community
At Bandwidth we’re big believers in supporting our communities through service and volunteering. We love the cities we live and work in, and we’re always looking for new ways to contribute to those communities. A total of 15 students are a part of the program, each one paired with a Big from Bandwidth.
Bandmates get excited
A total of 19 Bandwidth employees signed up to be Bigs, going through the background checks and training. 15 were paired with students, while the remaining 4 will help out during activities as floaters. Our team could have been more excited, and they were happy to share why they had joined the program.
“I love that Bandwidth is one of the pilot companies for the Beyond School Walls program. It’s a fantastic extension of Bandwidth’s 2018 intention to “Serve” wherever we are able and I’m excited to be a part of it!” — Ashleyanne Stratas
“I am excited to participate to give back to the community and to give a helping hand.” — Evelyn Mathara
“I couldn’t be more thrilled that Bandwidth is participating in Big Brothers Big Sisters, Beyond School Walls. As an only child, I have always wanted a big brother or sister! I enjoy spending time with children of all ages and am really excited to build a strong relationship with my little.” — Amy Bruce
“I love that Bandwidth provides opportunities for it’s employees to volunteer in programs like this. Being able to interact with colleagues outside of the work place and see what energy they bring to life outside of work gives new layers for how we see our co workers, and that is a really great experience.” — Ryan Miller
Kicking off with lunch and some speakers
Starting off with some speakers, including Erin Callahan, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Triangle, and Clayton Dorn, President of the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Triangle, the Bigs and Littles had a catered lunch, and then got to hang out and get to know each other.
“We’ve been working with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Triangle for 15 years,” said Jeanne Cowen, Director of Compensation & Benefits for Bandwidth. “Being able to partner with Centennial Middle School is something we’ve been wanting to do for a while, so we were so happy when this opportunity came up.”
Check out some more great photos from the day, as well as a video our team put together.
