JACKSONVILLE– Bigs With Badges is moving forward in Calhoun County through a school-based partnership.
In addition, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Alabama is working with the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office and Calhoun County Schools on the initiative.
Most recently, Program Manager Misty Gardner met with Sheriff Falon Hurst to advance the program’s next phase. Their discussion followed the 2026 State of Law Enforcement meeting hosted Friday in Jacksonville by the Calhoun County Area Chamber & Visitors Center.
According to Big Brothers Big Sisters, Deputy Richardson and Sergeant Abernathy initiated the collaboration. The program then took shape through several weeks of planning.
Under the plan, school resource officers will mentor young men across Calhoun County Schools. Participating officers also plan to include weekly school visits in their regular routines.
During those visits, mentors will focus on communication, essential life skills, and academic planning. Mentors will tailor that support to each student’s individual needs.
Additionally, participating officers plan to organize quarterly outings outside the classroom. Possible activities include museum visits, movies, and recreational events.
Big Brothers Big Sisters said those outings can help students and mentors build stronger connections. Community donations can also help support the activities.
The Calhoun County effort also reflects a wider Bigs With Badges model. Nationally, the program connects young people with mentors who work or previously worked in law enforcement.
Meanwhile, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Alabama has served local young people since 1982. The organization serves Calhoun, Cherokee, Cleburne, DeKalb, Etowah, and Talladega counties.
Anyone interested in supporting the quarterly outings may contact Misty Gardner at 256-241-3525. People may also email Gardner at misty@bbbsneal.org.
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