Simone Grimes stands as a beacon of positive change, leaving an indelible mark on organizations like Junior Achievement and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Through her dedication to community impact, Simone Grimes, CFO of Acadia Insurance, has become a driving force in shaping the futures of young individuals. At the helm of the Grimes Charitable Trust she spearheads initiatives that provide annual college scholarships, lighting the path for graduating seniors and returning undergraduate students.

Board service emerges as a transformative way that leaders can direct change through philanthropy; nowhere is this impact more evident than in the dedicated efforts of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Board members, like guiding stars, navigate the organization towards its mission of creating enduring positive change in the lives of children and teens. Below, Simone Grimes delves into how board service acts as a catalyst, elevating the philanthropic spirit at Big Brothers Big Sisters and shaping a brighter future for the youth they serve.

Simone Grimes Explains the Big Brothers Big Sisters Mission

At the heart of BBBS lies a powerful mission — to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever. This mission is not merely a slogan but a guiding principle that permeates every facet of the organization’s work.

The Power of Mentorship

Simone Grimes, CFO of Acadia Insurance, says that the cornerstone of BBBS’s success lies in its mentorship programs. By connecting children and teenagers with caring, responsible mentors, BBBS seeks to empower them to reach their full potential. These relationships, often referred to as “matches,” have the power to positively influence a young person’s life trajectory, instilling confidence, resilience, and a sense of possibility.

The Role of Board Members

Board members at BBBS are instrumental in shaping the organization’s strategies, policies, and overall direction. Simone Grimes explains that these individuals, often distinguished leaders in various fields, bring a wealth of experience, skills, and, most importantly, a passion for making a difference in the lives of young people. Through their voluntary service, board members become the driving force behind BBBS’s ability to fulfill its mission.

Strategic Vision and Planning

One of the key contributions of board members is their role in developing the organization’s strategic vision and planning. With a keen understanding of the challenges facing youth today, board members work collaboratively to set goals, allocate resources, and chart a course for BBBS to expand its reach and impact. Their strategic foresight ensures that BBBS remains at the forefront of mentorship initiatives, adapting to the evolving needs of the communities it serves.

Fundraising and Philanthropy

Simone Grimes says that board members also play a vital role in fundraising and philanthropy, essential components of BBBS’s sustainability and growth. Leveraging their networks, expertise, and passion for the cause, board members engage in donor cultivation, organize fundraising events, and advocate for the financial support needed to fuel BBBS’s programs. Their commitment to philanthropy not only secures the organization’s present but also lays the foundation for its future endeavors.

Community Engagement and Advocacy

Simone Grimes, CFO of Acadia Insurance says that beyond the boardroom, BBBS board members actively engage with the communities they serve. By participating in local events, fostering partnerships, and advocating for the importance of mentorship, they amplify BBBS’s impact. Board members serve as ambassadors, championing the organization’s mission and encouraging others to join the cause, thereby creating a ripple effect of positive change.

Success Stories: Impact in Action

To illustrate the tangible impact of board service, Simone Grimes delves into success stories that exemplify how BBBS’s mentorship programs, guided by dedicated board members, have transformed the lives of young individuals.

J.P. Guillerault of Southern Maine

When the 22-year-old Saco native graduated from Curry College in Massachusetts in the spring, he already had secured a job. Getting matched with a “Big Brother” through the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Maine made a huge impact in Guillerault’s life.

In middle school, J.P. was paired up with local business owner and handyman Leo Menard, and it was a perfect match. The two in 2017 were named Big and Little Brother of the Year. Menard attended Guillerault’s high school and college graduations and rugby games, and helped him move to college.

Guillerault is now an adult, but the two remain close. “I like to call Leo to let him know how things are going with me, and see what’s going on with him. Leo’s a really great guy,” Guillerault said. “That’s a cool thing with Leo. I can call someone if I ever have a question,” he said. “He’s been really important in my life.”

J.P’s mother, Mary Guillerault says “Brothers Big Sisters was and is such an important part of our lives. To this day, the experience my son JP had has left an impression.” She continued, “I want you and your organization to know how much I appreciate you and what it can accomplish when children have a positive role model. I know the impact the program gave our family.”

J.P. Guillerault said participating in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Maine really helped shape his life. He would like to someday to become a big brother, and give to someone else the experience that Menard gave him.

Conclusion

Simone Grimes, CFO of Acadia Insurance, says that the impact of board service at Big Brothers Big Sisters is nothing short of transformative. Through strategic vision, fundraising prowess, community engagement, and unwavering commitment, board members become architects of positive change in the lives of children and teenagers facing adversity. As BBBS continues its mission to empower youth through mentorship, the invaluable contributions of board members serve as a testament to the enduring power of philanthropy to shape a brighter future for generations to come.