On June 21, the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Island County chapter elected Hosptal Corpsman 2nd Class Donta Foster, Patrol Squadron (VP) 1 as its Big Brother volunteer of the year.

Foster has been assigned to VP-1 since September 2006 performing duties as a Navy corpsman. As a “big brother” he has sponsored his “little brother” Shaun since October 2006.

His sponsorship has included playing video games, working on home work together, going to Sonics games and playing basketball.

“I always enjoy sharing my time with someone in need,” said Foster. “Shaun and I look forward to our time together.”

The Big Brothers, Big Sisters nationwide mission is to provide positive adult role models to children with one-on-one friendship based relationships.

As a preventive program, Big Brother Big Sisters reinforces positive attributes in children. These relationships provide a strengthened sense of self-worth at home, in school and in their local community.

It is recognized that children who have an older special friend tend to be more even-tempered, less likely to be swayed by peer pressure, and perform better academically.

The Big Brothers, Big Sisters help children between the ages of 6-14 who lack consistent adult role models and would benefit from the positive influence of a warm, caring friendship.

In March, the Island County Big Brothers, Big Sisters celebrated their 200 match. They are always in need of adult volunteers. Anyone interested can contact Big Brothers Big Sisters at (360) 279-0644 or online at .