McConnell Reservists participate in 'Big for a Day'

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Abigail Klein
  • 931st Air Refueling Group Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  McConnell Reservists took time from their busy schedules to bond with more than 50 boys and girls from the local Big Brothers Big Sisters program during a visit to the base Aug. 6, 2015.

The annual event, "Big for A Day," was sponsored by the active duty 349th Air Refueling Squadron and provided the children an opportunity to experience McConnell firsthand while also allowing them to develop long-lasting bonds with Airmen. 

Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters helps boys and girls, most of whom are considered at risk and live in single parent homes, achieve their full potential through long-term personal relationships with carefully screened and caring volunteers.

The day began with buses lined up outside Hangar 1107, where the "littles" met their "bigs" for the day. The event included several activities for children to explore with their big, including a hands-on tour through a KC-135R Stratotanker, presentations and demonstrations by security forces, explosive ordnance disposal, aircrew flight equipment, the fire station and medical personnel.  The event continued at the Robert J. Dole Community Center, where the children bowled and played volleyball in the gym.

Lt. Col. Glenn Clark, 931st Air Refueling Group Stan Eval Chief, participated in the event for the second time, along with seven other Reservists, and spent the day with his, little, 9-year-old Rogdreck.  The two exchanged basketball stories, while Rogdreck expressed his desire to be a professional basketball player.

Clark volunteered again simply because he enjoys the opportunity to be a mentor.

"It's all about the kids," he said, "It's great to inspire and be a mentor to them, even for a day."
Fran Pack, BBBS Development Assistant and volunteer recruiter, says McConnell's involvement with the organization is strong, as they consist of most of the 'bigs' for the local Sedgwick County Chapter.

"McConnell is our largest source of volunteers, and they have always been very supportive," she said.  "[Big for a Day] is important because it keeps that relationship going, and also allows the children to view all the career opportunities available in the military."

McConnell has partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters for more than 30 years and is one of Kansas' largest contributors to the program. For more information on how to volunteer, Pack suggest visiting the organizations official website.