T.O. woman enjoys being Big Sister

A WIN-WIN FOR BOTH—Amber Dunn of Thousand Oaks holds a photo of herself and Jessica, 9, of Simi Valley. Dunn became a Big Sister to Jessica shortly after the youngster’s seventh birthday. Dunn says they “clicked very well” and have fun together. Her involvement with the Big Sister program has been a positive experience for both “sisters.” BILL SPARKES Acorn Newspapers Amber Dunn is single and has no children, but the Thousand Oaks resident is making a big impact on a little girl.

Dunn chose to become a big sister to Jessica three years ago, and in May her selfless efforts were recognized with an award from the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Ventura County.

A Phoenix native, Dunn enlisted in the Navy eight years ago. Three years ago, she found herself stationed at Point Mugu and missing her 10-year-old sister. That feeling motivated her to sign up with the volunteer organization.

“I enjoy spending time with children and making a difference,” said the 26-year-old.

Dunn’s “little sister,” 9-yearold Jessica, is from Simi Valley. Jessica was excited to get a Big Sister because for several years her own brother had been enjoying having a Big Brother from the organization.

Although Jessica lives several miles from Dunn, the two sisters spend lots of time roller-blading, going to museums and movies, and doing simple things such as taking Dunn’s dog for walks, playing games and talking on the phone.

“We clicked very well,” said Dunn. “It’s just good for her to have someone she can always talk to or just to get away.”

The Big Brother/Big Bister organization stresses that “siblings” spend time doing lowor no-cost activities.

“We want it more focused on the friendship and less focused on material things,” said Jan Sage, program director.

Sage said they need more adults in the program, especially Big Brothers. About 100 children, two-thirds of whom are boys, are waiting to be matched with adult volunteers, but only a dozen or so adults are waiting to be approved as Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Sage said.

Jessica’s mother, Mary, is a single mom who appreciates the time and attention the volunteer Big Brother and Sister have given her children.

“It’s been wonderful for both of the kids,” said Mary, who recently lost her job and is homeless. “It’s the only thing right now that is consistent and stable for them.”

Her children currently are staying with relatives.

Dunn said a Big Sister or a Big Brother isn’t a substitute for a parent, but someone who’s there to listen to the child and take an interest in him.

The time soon is approaching, however, when Dunn may be saying goodbye to her little sister. In November she plans to leave the Navy and complete graduate school. She wants to work in the nonprofit sector as a project manager, and she doesn’t know if that means she’ll have to move.

“It will be just heartbreaking (if I have to leave her),” said Dunn. “I’ve thought about it a lot; that’s one of the few things that makes me want to stay in this area.”

For more information on becoming a Big Brother/Big Sister, please see the accompanying article.