Big Brothers Big Sisters of SLO County, in partnership with the San Luis Obispo County Fire Department, is thrilled to provide a tour of the SLO Airport fire department to volunteer mentors, their mentees and their families.

The morning of Saturday, August 3 will kick off with an exploration of Airport Station 21, touring the building and seeing the fire trucks and other vehicles that are used for keeping the airport and surrounding areas safe.

Sponsored by the SLO County Board of Supervisors and the SLO Country Fire Department, this event is an example of the many benefits of mentorships with Big Brothers Big Sisters’ programs. Having access to special outings, like this fire station tour, is one of the reasons children who are mentored are statistically more likely to graduate from high school, attend college or trade school and have positive relationships with their community.

Executive Director, Stacy Salame, said, “Bringing children on a tour of a fire station is a fun way to learn about the local heroes who keep us safe, while also gaining insight into the exciting world of firefighting as a career path. We are grateful for the Board of Supervisors and the SLO County Fire Department for their generosity and community engagement in providing this opportunity. Our volunteers and children in our programs get so much out of these monthly adventures, and we’re so happy to provide an educational outing for them.”

Partnerships with community organizations, like the SLO County Fire Department, are crucial to bringing opportunities like the monthly Bigs & Littles Adventures to local youth. Whether it’s with a business or another nonprofit, these partnerships demonstrate a shared commitment to mentorship opportunities for children.