Big Brothers Big Sisters of Family Services of NW PA recently hosted its annual Appreciation Dinner. The event serves to recognize sponsors, celebrate volunteers, and honor high school graduates.
The theme of this year's Appreciation Dinner was The Lighthouse Effect. Big Brothers Big Sisters Program Supervisor Heather Filson recently attended the Big Brothers Big Sisters National Conference and had the opportunity to meet Steve Pemberton, a best-selling author and philanthropist. His newest book, The Lighthouse Effect, is a collection of stories from Steve's personal journey of growing up in foster care and recognizing those adults who made him believe in himself.
Lighthouses provide guidance and safety – just like volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Family Services of NW PA. The Lighthouse Effect is "the belief that each day, and each interaction, provides an opportunity to be a lighthouse for another – and to find one for ourselves." In his book, Steve highlights ten ways to live The Lighthouse Effect.
Heather closed the event by sharing her belief that everyone in the room is a lighthouse. According to her closing remarks, "You may not realize the effect and influence you are having on an individual. Your impact may not be recognized every day, but through the days, months, and years, you are making an incredible, if not lifesaving difference."
Thank you to everyone who supports Big Brothers Big Sisters of Family Services of NW PA.
