History of Big Brothers Big Sisters of SW Virginia

The first Big Brothers group in Roanoke was organized on a volunteer basis by the Roanoke Junior Chamber of Commerce in 1950.  In 1954, due to lack of funds and staff, the service program dwindled into inactivity.  In 1968, thanks to efforts by the Salvation Army, Roanoke Valley Council of Community Services, and interested citizens (Beirne Carter, John Walker, Warner Dalhouse and Sig Davidson), the first full-time paid director was hired and Big Brother services were offered.

Full affiliation with Big Brothers of America followed the same year.  The United Way gave admission to Big Brothers of Roanoke in 1969.  In 1975, the agency began provisions for formal Big Sister services.  In 1979, the agency became Big Brothers Big Sisters of Roanoke Valley, Inc., serving Roanoke City, Salem, Vinton, Roanoke County, Craig County, and Botetourt County.  In 2002, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the New River Valley merged with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Roanoke Valley, adding Montgomery County, Pulaski County, Floyd County, Giles County, and the cities of Blacksburg, Christiansburg and Radford to our service area.  We became Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Virginia, Inc.

The Board of Directors of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Virginia is proud to announce that June House is the new President & CEO.  House has over 12 years expericence as President/CEO of two Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies, ten of which were here in The Roanoke Valley.  House's experience and enthusiasm for the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters are a major bonus in helping our organization to continue successfully.