Junior League gives Big Brothers Big Sisters a 'one-of-a-kind' room

LAKE CHARLES, LA. (KVHP) - The Junior League of Lake Charles recruits new members each year.

But to become an active member, a recruit must first go through a one-year Junior League provisional class.

Every year, the provisional class selects a community service project, as part of its orientation. This year, it selected Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana.

"Everybody came every single day for two weeks to make this possible," said Jenna Fusilier, execution co-chairwoman with the provisional class.

Fusilier said 38 women completely transformed the multipurpose/ game room at Big Brothers Big Sisters.

"We saw what was needed, not needed. We had to throw away a lot," said Fusilier.

But they also added a lot.

"The room was fine as it was in the past. It served its purpose," said Heather Hohensee, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana's executive director.

But now, three new computers and chairs, a reading nook, an updated game area, freshly painted walls, an arts and crafts area, a chalk wall, and new flooring make it a one-of-a-kind room.

"We came in and transformed it," said Fusilier.

And Hohensee said the project serves them in a larger purpose - just in time for summer.

"We have a summer program that we run in June and July and we offer it to our Littles already enrolled in our program," explained Hohensee.

Hohensee said about 20 Littles use the game room Monday through Friday for BBBS' summer enrichment program.

"We're looking at our children, especially in our community program or on our wait list that probably wouldn't have a place to stay and might be home alone because their parent or guardian might be working during the day," said Hohensee.

While it's a learning experience for the Junior League provisional class, it's also a benefit to the Bigs and Littles.

"What we have now is an environment that's much more enriching and stimulating. It's more peaceful. They're gonna come in here, I think they're gonna feel comfortable," said Hohensee.

They all call it a win-win scenario.

Sherwin-Williams donated all the paint, Stine helped with discounted flooring, and the three computers were donated by CB&I.

You can find out more about Junior League of Lake Charles HERE.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana also has upcoming fundraising events. More information is available HERE.