Local Big Sister, Roberta London, is named Pennsylvania Big Sister of the Year

Local Big Sister, Roberta London, is named Pennsylvania Big Sister of the Year

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh is pleased to announce that one of its own has been named Big Sister of the Year for the state of Pennsylvania.  Roberta London, of Pittsburgh, will be honored for her award throughout 2013.

“We, at the Greater Pittsburgh agency, are extremely proud of Roberta and are happy to have her as part of our team.  The impact she has had on the life of her Little and her unparalleled support to our community are remarkable,” said Jan S. Glick, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh.

“Roberta was part of a long list of highly motivated and successful Pennsylvania candidates.  Her story and her selection as Big Sister of the Year further validates the Greater Pittsburgh agency’s selection as Mid-size Agency of the Year for 2012,” said Ted Qualli, Big Brothers Big Sisters State Association of Pennsylvania president.

For 10 years, Ms. London, a manager at PNC Bank, has been a positive role model to little brother, 17-year-old Ishemer.  The two were matched when Ishemer, the son of a single father, was seven years old.  Throughout the years, Ms. London and Ishemer enjoyed numerous activities together, including trips to Kennywood, Carnegie Science Center and sporting events.  They also attended various Big Brother Big Sister events as holiday parties and summer picnics.

Throughout his middle and high school years Ms. London supported Ishemer’s endeavors in football and basketball, attended his performance at a church play and encouraged his love for books. Now, the two often speak about Ishemer attending a university – something that is becoming less of a dream and more of a reality, said Ms. London.  He is exploring a career in nursing.

“Roberta understands the importance of the consistent mentoring relationship.  Being an outstanding Big isn’t about convenience, but more importantly, to remain matched during challenging times and situations,” said Sandra Eritano, match support specialist.

“Who knew that a relationship with a little boy I considered years ago to be questionable would turn out like this.  I am so blessed to have a solid relationship with a child that I admire, care deeply about, consider family and truly enjoy being around,” said Ms.  London.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is in need of consistent, committed mentors.  E-mailsthomas@bbbspgh.org for more information or call 724.228.9191

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh is part of the nation’s largest donor and volunteer supported mentoring network that helps children in its program achieve educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence and better relations.  Partnering with parents/guardians, schools, corporations and others in the community, BBBS of Greater Pittsburgh pairs children (“Littles”), ages 6 through 13, with screened volunteer mentors (“Bigs”).

BBBS of Greater Pittsburgh serves about 1,200 children annually in Allegheny, Greene and Washington counties and has earned national recognition for program quality and organizational excellence.