Monte Dickinson
Match Coordinator, Big Brothers Big Sisters
written by Jenny Halsch, Program ManagerIt is with sheer delight that I announce that Monte Dickinson is The Next Door’s Employee of the Month for October!
Monte is the Wasco County Match Coordinator for Big Brothers Big Sisters and has been with the program since it’s inception in 2000. It is hard for me to put into words exactly what Monte means to BBBS and NDI, because what she brings to the table day in and day out is so great.
Monte is in it for the long haul. One of the things that has impressed me most is how she forms relationships with her Littles and Bigs. If the Little has moved away, chances are good that she is keeping up with how they are doing. I can think of two Littles who have moved up to the Seattle/Tacoma area; and when she is up in that direction she brings them care packages, smiles, and lots of hugs. What awesome support for these two ‘kids’ to have: a mentor and a Monte!
Monte never gives up when she sees a kid has a need for a mentor. About a year ago Monte found a Big Brother for a little boy who had been waiting so patiently for months. Because she knew he was excited to have a “Big” of his own, she went to his house to share the great news. But his mom had a new boyfriend who did not want a Big Brother around and said they would “take a pass”; what was an ear to ear grin across the boys face turned to stone in disbelief.
Monte did not give up. Over the months she would talk about this little guy who had been so close to getting a positive male role model in his life, but then it was all taken away. A month ago Monte got back into touch with the family and found out that the boyfriend was no longer in the picture – Monte did not waste time and immediately had the mom sign the paperwork and began to happily hunt for the perfect Big Brother. She is still searching – so if you know someone…..
Monte has built up our program in The Dalles and she is always at capacity. She keeps a full case load and provides amazing support to the Littles, Bigs, and parents. We are lucky to have her as part of our team.
Congratulations, Monte!
"To all let it be known that Monte Dickinson is an inspiration to anyone who has had luck to meet her. Thank You Monte." ~~Tim Sweeney [son of Stella]
Monte was honored a second time as Employee of the Month.
Here's what Kristin Reese, new Program Manager for BBBS, had to say:
For more than 10 years, Monte has been an integral part of our work at Big Brothers Big Sisters. She has offered her wisdom to all new volunteers and staff and has gone above and beyond her job duties whenever her skills were needed.
Most recently, she provided her invaluable insight to a brand new staff person, assisting in training and development of materials as well as allowing new staff to shadow her for intake interviews – all while maintaining a full case load. She is extremely supportive of other program staff and has been indispensible to this new program manager… What else need I say? Please, join me in congratulating our July Employee of the Month – Monte Dickinson!