The Big Buddy Program is a non-profit youth organization that is committed to providing positive role models in the lives of the youth we serve. We believe that it is important for every child to have a positive role model leading him or her to make good choices resulting in a healthy, rewarding life.

Our Vision: That every child has a positive role model leading him/her to make good choices resulting in a healthy rewarding life.

Our Mission: To provide access to positive role models and learning experiences to children who lack these resources.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!!!

One of the schools Big Buddy serves, Lanier Charter Elementary School will be featured on NBC's School Pride, an Extreme Makeover for schools in need of renovation. The program calls upon volunteers in the community to participate in the 10-day construction project. Lanier, a charter school run by Advance Baton Rouge, needs volunteers from July 12 to July 18.  Lanier was built in 1958 and its enrollment last year was 274 students.  A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held July 17 at 8am.  School Pride, which is produced by Curb Your Enthusiasm star Cheryl Hines, will air Fridays at 7pm on WVLA (NBC) this fall.

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Big Buddy on My 16 TV

Check out our newest addition to the staff, Will Minton, on WBXH My News at 9 talking about the Big Buddy Program.

Congratulations to our Certified Youth Development Professionals!

After completing Beginning (11 hours) and Intermediate (9 hours) level coursework and at least 400 hours of practicum experience, staff are eligible to take a certification exam and to gain certification. In June 2010, Big Buddy Program is graduating its first class of 30 certified Youth Development Professionals. In Fall 2010, we plan to offer these staff the 30-hour Advancing Youth Development training created by the National Training Institute for Community Youth Work.

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