Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien and Cass, Inc. Board of Directors Appoint Veteran Community Leader, Kathryn S. Rossow, as Interim CEO/Executive Director

September 25, 2008, Niles, Michigan – Kathryn S. Rossow has been a dedicated community leader and volunteer for almost twenty years. Rossow recently accepted an appointment as Interim CEO/Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien and Cass. Rossow’s interest in Big Brothers Big Sisters began when she became a Big Sister herself to a five year-old elementary student. “I've had a soft spot in my heart for the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization for many years because I have seen first-hand the difference that adult mentors can make in the lives of children,” said Kathryn S. Rossow, Interim CEO/Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien and Cass. “Spending just an hour or two talking one-on-one with a child is powerful and it can be life-changing - for both parties. The key is the one-to-one focus of attention. A favorite quote of mine states, ‘When you change the world of a child, you change the world.’ It's true.” Rossow’s Little Sister is now fourteen years old.

In addition to being a Big Sister since 1999, Rossow has served on a number of boards throughout Southwest Michigan and nationally. Rossow’s experience makes her an exceptional leader for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien and Cass during this period of transition. Prior to joining BBBS Rossow worked as the Executive Director of the Volunteer Center of Southwest Michigan. Rossow has also served on the Boards of Lakeland Regional Health System, United Way of Greater Niles and the United Way of Southwest Michigan. Rossow was the Chair for the National Council of Volunteer Centers of The Points of Light Foundation in Washington, D.C.. In 2006 Rossow received the Liberty Bell Award, made by the Berrien County Bar Association to a citizen who has furthered the cause of justice in Berrien County.

"Having a Big Sister as our director is an unexpected blessing,” said Robert Smith, President of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien and Cass board of directors. “And, having a known leader such as Kathryn at the helm is a very exciting prospect for the organization."

In addition to the new Interim CEO/Executive Director, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien and Cass’ board of directors has appointed two new members to their board. Susan Larson works as a Loan Department Manager for Greater Niles Community Federal Credit Union and also serves as the board Treasurer for Kiwanis Club of Niles. Emily McLoughlin works as a Human Resources Department Administrator for K & M Machine-Fabricating, Inc. and is the Dowagiac High School Junior Varsity Girls Basketball Coach. McLoughlin also serves as a committee member of the Dowagiac Dogwood Festival Authors Committee.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien and Cass, Inc.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien and Cass helps vulnerable children beat negative odds. Our professionally supported volunteer services are proven to reduce children’s risk of dropping out of school, becoming violent, using drugs and alcohol, and falling victim to other negative cycles. Big Brothers Big Sisters and our network of supporters recognize the hardship, pain and challenges that children in too many communities confront. Our movement is relevant and there’s an urgent demand for what we achieve. In addition to our traditional mentoring program which matches a Big Brother or a Big Sister with a child of the same gender for at least one year, we provide "Lunch Buddy" mentors who meet with a child at their school once a week during lunchtime. In 2007, the organization served 85 youth and as many Bigs in our community. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Berrien and Cass, Inc. is a 501(C)3 nonprofit organization celebrating 41 years of service in Berrien and Cass Counties of Southwest Michigan. Learn how you can join the movement to change how children grow up in Berrien and Cass Counties by going to BBBSofBC.org or call (269) 684-1100, toll free (877) 367-2244.