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HISTORY, MISSION, & VISION

ABOUT

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the 7 Rivers Region is a nonprofit organization that is part of the federation of Big Brothers Big Sisters network in the United States. The organization focuses on providing one-to-one mentoring and support services to children and youth in the 7 Rivers Region, which is located in the Midwest, specifically in Southwest Wisconsin and Southeast Minnesota. 

HISTORY

Since 1969, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the 7 Rivers Region has been a part of the oldest and most respected youth mentoring program in the world. Our rich history is built on a national heritage more than a 100 years old and was founded for the sole purpose of enriching the lives of children and youth.

MISSION

To create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. For over 50 years, our agency has professionally matched children and youth, ages 5 through 18, with safe, caring adults. 

VISION

That all children and youth achieve their full potential.

BBBS 7 Rivers Region
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SERVICE AREA

Our offices are in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

We service counties in both Southwest Wisconsin and Southeast Minnesota.

Wisconsin

  • Buffalo

  • Crawford

  • Grant

  • Jackson

  • La Crosse

  • Monroe

  • Richland

  • Trempealeau

  • Vernon

Minnesota

  • Fillmore

  • Houston

  • Winona

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STAFF & BOARD

Our successful organization's strength and "glue" is our TEAM! 

Our Staff, along with the countless volunteers and supporters, all strive to make lives better for the Littles and the Bigs.  And the best reward is seeing our communities come together!

Meet Our Team

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Jeanne Meyer

Executive Director

jmeyer@7riversbbbs.org

608-461-0444

My favorites:

  • Spending time with family and friends and playing with my grandson, Jackson​

​Hobbies:

  • Reading, gardening, relaxing, and working out 

Aaron Zitelman

Director of Operations

azitelman@7riversbbbs.org

608-461-0502

My favorites:

  • Hanging out with family, friends and dogs​, playing cards and board games

​Hobbies:

  • Hiking, camping, volleyball, snowboarding, reading, golf, and being active

Shannon Leary

Program Director & Big Buddies Coordinator

sleary@7riversbbbs.org

608-667-1224

My favorites:

  • Watching movies, trying new restaurants/coffee shops, doing puzzles

Hobbies:

  • Coloring, painting, arts & crafts, shopping, fishing, and cooking/baking

Alivia Smith

Program Specialist & Sports Buddies Coordinator

asmith@7riversbbbs.org

608-389-5939

My favorites:

  • Spending time with friends and family, watching movies, coffee, Taylor Swift

Hobbies:

  • Running, reading, and taking care of my plants

Nick Sandstrom

Program Specialist

nsandstrom@7riversbbbs.org

608-535-6435

My favorites:

  • ​Hanging out with friends and family, board games, watching T.V./Movies, and traveling

Hobbies:

  • ​Being active, golf, coaching/playing hockey, and video games

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair - Kahya Fox

Executive Director

Habitat for Humanity of the Greater La Crosse Region

Secretary - Robert Burke

Project Coordinator

Locknet IT

Danielle Anderson

Manager of Youth Strategies

Altra Federal Credit Union

Vice Chair - Samuel Meyers

Southwest Wisconsin Regional Operations Manager (Cardiology)

Mayo Clinic

Teddi-Ann Carini

Director, Technology Product Management

Optum Serve

Theresa Rudy

Corporate Accountant

Kwik Trip

Treasurer - Tyler Kramer

Credit Analyst

WNB Financial

Seth Hudalla

Account Manager

Wolter

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