'We have a dying need for mentors': Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee searching for male mentors

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MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- One of the nation's most recognizable nonprofits can use your help now more than ever before.

Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee is looking for more male mentors to help their growing waitlist of "littles," with more than 250 of them being boys.

The mission of the group is to create and support one-on-one mentoring relationships, which would ignite the power and promise of youth. However, the lack of male mentors could pose a problem to the work of the beloved organization.

"We got the bus, we just need some drivers," said Anton Duncan, recruiter with Big Brothers Big Sisters Metro Milwaukee.

Duncan has been a mentor with the group for nearly 13 years.

"One of the most important things he said to me was, 'Anton, you taught me about choices,'" said Duncan.

Now he's on a mission to help other boys and girls find the guidance they need.

"The more drivers (mentors) we get, the more we make a change, and the more we keep these young kids out of trouble," said Duncan.

The organization serves nearly 1,300 youth throughout the year, and as times have changed, so has demand.

"We have a dying need for mentors, male and female, to get involved," said Duncan.

The organization is looking to match nearly 400 of Milwaukee and Waukesha County youth with the right mentor, with some "littles" on the waiting list for upwards of three years.

"Parents are looking at themselves, looking at their ability to provide for the kids, and they say these children would benefit from one additional adult on a weekly basis that cares for him," said Neil Willenson, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee.

Willenson went on to say a child with a mentor can accomplish big things.

"They'll graduate on time, their grades will improve, they'll feel better about themselves."

"If you want lifelong satisfaction, gratification, become a mentor," said Duncan.

For more information about how to get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee, click the link here.

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