Big Sister Lindsay Hrobak of York Township and her Little Sister, Kerstyn Dorm, 10, play at John Rudy County Park after a dinner at the White Rose Grill on Monday. The sisters have been together for about two years and get together once a month, but sometimes more often than that, through the Big Brothers Big Sisters of York and Adams Counties. (John A. Pavoncello photo)

Bike riding, reading, manicures and pedicures, movies, swimming and trips to the beach - these are just a few of Lindsay Hrobak and Kerstyn Dom's favorite things to do together.

Hrobak, 25, has been a Big Sister to 10-year-old Kerstyn for the past two years through Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of York and Adams Counties.

BBBS is a professionally supervised mentoring program that works to help children and teenagers make wise decisions and reach their full potential.

When Hrobak graduated from York College she continued living in York Township. She missed her own sister and family and decided to try BBBS.

"I did not know what to expect when I started volunteering, but my experience with BBBS has been one the best things I have done," said Hrobak. "I learned how important it is to be a positive role model. I learned that we don't have to always go and do something big to have a great time."

She said their relationship has really developed into a big sister/little sister relationship.

About 55 children are waiting to be matched with a mentor, said Michael Smith, executive director of BBBS in York and Adams Counties.

"We have a tremendous need for volunteers," Smith said, adding that they ask mentors to make at least a one year commitment to meeting with their little sibling about three to four times a month.

Group activities are sponsored by BBBS at least quarterly, he said, and BBBS sometimes provides free tickets for activities like amusement parks and zoos.

"Most activities are on their own, as the goal is for the pair to develop a solid mentoring friendship," said Smith.

Orientation sessions begin this month for volunteers who are interested in becoming a mentor for a child in the community with BBBS.

The sessions last about an hour and will be held in the BBBS York office, 227 West Market Street. Background checks are completed after orientation and followed by more training.

The sessions are scheduled for 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 18, noon Tuesday, May 8, and 10 a.m. Saturday, May 19. To register or for more information call the BBBS office at 843-0051.

- Reach Chelsea Shank at 505-5432 or cshank@yorkdispatch.com.