Letter: Mentoring kids is better than constant security

Tuesday, May 4, 1999 | 6:35 a.m.

At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Nevada, we are doing everything we can to match boys and girls with caring adults, giving them a sense of belonging and a place where they can feel special, appreciated and valued. In a national study conducted by Public/Private Ventures, researchers found that boys and girls matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister were less likely to join gangs and engage in violence.

Since the incident in Littleton, there has been ongoing dialogue and the call for more police and metal detectors in school. We contend that the need is not for more "quick fixes," but long-lasting and caring interaction between children and adults.

Youth violence will not be deterred by machines, such as metal detectors. It will be prevented when every child feels loved, appreciated and supported. How do we accomplish this? Support mentoring. Be a Big Brother or Big Sister!

WILLI BAER, President/CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters Of So. Nevada

ELISABETH PAINTER, V.P. of Programs, Big Brothers Big Sisters Of So. Nevada

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