Sliders of Ypsilanti to become ‘big brother’ for local youth

By Josh Curmi
Jan. 29, 2009    ·    1:51 a.m.

The Sliders if Ypsilanti and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Washtenaw County announced they are joining forces to reach out to the children of the community Wednesday.

Rob Hilliard, owner and managing partner of the Sliders and Jennifer Spitler, executive Director of the Big Brothers Big Sisters made the announcement in a press release.

The Big Brothers Big Sisters, an organization that pairs children, “littles,” with role models, “bigs,” who offer them guidance and support in growing socially, emotionally and academically.

Hilliard expressed how he wants his organization to not only be part of this organization, but also active in the local community.

As part of the program, the Sliders are offering season-long free admission to any “big” who takes their “little” to a game. Additionally, half of the admission fees will be donated to the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization from the Sliders exhibition date May 11th against the Lake Erie Crushers.

Hilliard said he will also is going to become a Big Brother himself.

“Our organization is looking forward to a long-term relationship with the Ypsi-Arbor community,” said Hilliard, noting his group is working with local business leaders to bring organized baseball to the area on a permanent basis.

“I’m anxious to become active in the neighborhood,” he said. “What better way than to be involved in worthwhile service to the community.”

Spitler is very excited to have the addition to her program, and said the players will provide a great opportunity for the children.

“Our goals for 2009 include expanding our activities in Ypsilanti and increasing the number of Big Brothers available to act as mentors,” she said. “We have an Ypsilanti-based ball club whose members are in their early to mid 20’s, playing our national pastime and striving to reach their career goals while not making a whole lot of money.

“There’s a lot to admire in their pursuit of an American dream and a lot our children can learn from that,” she added.
Hilliard said he feels the Sliders relationship with Big Brothers Big Sisters helps the organization in multiple areas. He gave three ways he saw this happening.

“We want to add a new activity for bigs and their littles,” he said. “We want to contribute to the roster of Big Brothers.”

For more information on the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Washtenaw County please visit their Web site, or call 734-975-0933. More on the Sliders can be found at their Web site, or by calling 734-474-1228.