Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine (BBBSMM) is pleased to welcome Haley Stearns as the agency’s new Midcoast program manager. In her new role, Stearns supports the community youth mentoring program, as well as screening, training, matching and supporting Bigs and Littles in school-based programs in Knox, Lincoln, and Waldo counties.

Stearns comes to Big Brothers Big Sisters most recently from Madison, where she taught high school alternative education. She has broad experience working with youth and local non-profits, including service at Wayfinder Schools in Camden, and New Hope Midcoast in Rockland. She is a graduate of American University, where she received a bachelor’s degree in justice.

BBBSMM Executive Director Gwendolyn Hudson said Stearns brings unique skills in working with youth, and the broader community. “Haley’s experience working with children, and her educational training in justice, are a perfect fit with Big Brothers Big Sisters, as justice, equity, diversity and inclusion continue to be an integral part of our values and mission.”

Working every day to help connect and nurture relationships between Bigs and Littles, Stearns said she is inspired by the depth and commitment of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine’s volunteers.

“It’s pretty amazing to get to work with so many selfless, enthusiastic, kid-focused humans,” she said. “I enjoy being their sounding board, helping them work through problems, and celebrating all of the good things they experience knowing and supporting their Littles.”

Stearns lives in the Belfast community, with her husband Julian and their chocolate lab/pointer mix Suzette. She enjoys skiing, hiking, baking, reading cookbooks, playing with her dog, and working with local youth.

“I’m so lucky to be able to see first-hand the positive impact that Big Brothers Big Sisters has on children, as well as their adult mentors,” Stearns said. “If you’ve ever thought about becoming a Big, now is the time. More than 100 Littles are waiting for a positive mentor in their lives to help ignite their greatest potential.”

To learn more about becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister, please visit bbbsmidmaine.org, email info@bbbsmidmaine.org or call 236-BBBS.