Harrisburg, PA – Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Tyree C. Blocker announced today that troopers from Troop H and the State Police Academy have volunteered to become youth mentors with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region as part of the organization’s Bigs in Blue program. The announcement was made at the Big Brothers Big Sisters Over the Edge fundraising event in downtown Harrisburg.
Bigs in Blue is a one-to-one mentoring program that connects youth with police in their communities to build stronger bonds between law enforcement and the families they serve and to make a positive difference in the lives of children.
PSP First in Country to Partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters
“I am especially proud of the men and women of the Pennsylvania State Police for their commitment to their communities through all that they do, but in particular for being first in the nation to partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters on Bigs in Blue,” Gov. Wolf said. “Congratulations to the 11 members of the State Police who are beginning what I’m sure will be a growing, productive initiative.”
“The Pennsylvania State Police is proud to be the first state police organization in the country to participate in Bigs in Blue,” said Commissioner Blocker. “Partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters was a natural fit for the State Police.”
Eleven troopers in south central Pennsylvania have been matched with a local elementary or middle school student as part of the pilot program. After a thorough screening and background check, each “big” was paired with a “little” who was referred to Big Brothers Big Sisters because they face a challenge or adversity that may be helped by having a mentor in their life.
“The Pennsylvania State Police is dedicated to serving the public and improving the quality of life for all,” said Commissioner Blocker. “Bigs in Blue affords us a unique opportunity to do that while also helping to shape a positive perspective on law enforcement, one child and family at a time. I cannot think of a better role model for a young man or woman than a Pennsylvania State Trooper.”
Throughout the school year, troopers will visit their “littles” at school to help with schoolwork, play at recess, or even just hang out.
“Big Brothers Big Sisters provides children facing adversity with a positive role-model, and we are honored that the Pennsylvania State Police have volunteered to be mentors in the communities they serve,” said Maddie Young, chief executive officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region. “Each ‘Big’ in Blue will have a positive impact on their mentee, and by doing so, create new avenues of communication that will strengthen the community as a whole.”
For more information on the Pennsylvania State Police, visit www.psp.pa.gov.