‘Lofty goals need to be nurtured so they can grow’

WWMT helps spread the word on need for mentors

“With only a few exceptions, they all say they love Old Country Buffet,” says Andy Dominianni, WWMT/NewsChannel 3 evening anchor. Dominianni is talking about the nearly 50 children he’s interviewed for his monthly feature highlighting a child who is waiting for a mentor.

Since early 2013, WWMT/NewsChannel 3 has partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters to let the community know about the need for mentors.

“Often the general public doesn’t know that we need more Bigs, particularly men,” says Amy Kuchta, Big Brothers Big Sisters’ chief executive officer. “Andy and Channel 3 have introduced, and put a face on, this need while increasing the agency’s profile in the community. We’re grateful for that.”

For his part, Dominianni says he advocates for the agency “because this group, quite literally, saves lives. They see the value and potential in our children and realize just how critical it is to empower these kids with self-confidence.” Dominianni continues, “A child without a strong support system is much more likely to simply give up on themselves and their own success.”

The monthly feature isn’t the only way WWMT assists Big Brothers Big Sisters. “We’ve been fortunate to be asked to be on the station’s morning show,” Kuchta says. “The Lori Moore show (seen on Channel 3’s sister station CW7) has also had us on several times to talk about upcoming events and the need for Bigs. This is helpful as we work to find mentors and serve 1,200 children in 2016.”

What has Dominianni learned about the kids he’s interviewed? “All 49 children have told me they tend to be bored and uninspired. They all say they wish they spent more time exploring and less time sitting at home. Interestingly, they all, with only one exception, tell me they love math!”

Dominianni says the children he’s interviewed are pretty typical. “What surprises me the most is how big these kids dream. They aspire to careers as teachers, astronauts, professional athletes, police officers, and veterinarians,” he says. “These lofty goals need to be nurtured so they can grow. Otherwise, they may take the easy way out. We can’t let that happen.”