Lee County Clerk and Comptroller Kevin Karnes recently announced a partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast that allows students to gain an inside look and hands-on experience with the Lee County Clerk’s office and several other constitutional offices.

Through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, called “Beyond School Walls,” students from North Fort Myers High School (Littles) are paired with Clerk employee mentors (Bigs) to build relationships and learn all about the services provided by the Lee County Clerk’s office and other local governments and the functions the organizations perform. The program is also tied to the concept that the Littles would hopefully choose career paths in the public sector.

Beyond School Walls recently kicked off at the clerk’s office, and since that time, the students have had the opportunity to go on a behind-the-scenes tour of the courts department, visit the evidence room to learn about the role evidence plays in the judicial process, and go into a courtroom to hear from Clerk Karnes about the clerk’s role during courtroom proceedings.

“This is such a wonderful opportunity for us to continue our commitment of giving back to the community in meaningful ways,” said Karnes. “Partnering with an organization like Big Brothers Big Sisters will not only create a lasting impact with these kids, but also our Clerk mentors. We couldn’t be more excited to teach these students about the Clerk’s office and our role in local government.”

The students come to the Clerk’s office once a month and spend several hours with their mentor.

“We are grateful for our partnership with the Lee County Clerk’s office,” said Joy Mahler, President|CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast. “Through a collaborative partnership, we have extended the education of our youths beyond their school. The skills students will gain through this program will be unmatched, and will help guide them to the next steps in their lives and careers.”

Learn more about the Big Brothers Big Sisters at bbbssun.org.