Roseville's Jim Badzinski Nominated for Big Brother of The Year

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Twin Cities said this week it has nominated Roseville resident Jim Badzinski as Big Brother of the Year.

"Jim and his Little Brother, Dustin, have been matched for eight years, forming a special bond that has lasted through thick and thin," the organization said in a statement. "Badzinski was selected as Big Brother of the Year out of nearly 3,000 mentors for his outstanding commitment to this relationship."

Badzinkski said, "To me, the time I spend with Dustin is the best time of my life. I am so glad that Dustin and his mother took the leap of faith and allowed me into his life."

Jim has become a strong male mentor for Dustin, supporting him in numerous endeavors, including snow tubing, golfing, homeework and school-related activities., Big Brothers Big Sisters said. Badzinkski has also spent many hours watching Dustin play Little League baseball and was an assistant coach for Dustin's team, according to the non-profit group. 

"Jim has shown me that if you work hard enough you can be anything you want," Dustin said.

As a Greater Twin Cities Big of the Year, Jim will be honored at the organization's Annual Gala on May 18, and at other events throughout the year, officials at the non-profit said. His story will go before a state, then national committee where a National Big of the Year will be selected by The Marketing and Communications committee of the National Leadership Council (NLC), who will choose one Big Brother and one Big Sister to receive the 2012 National Big of the Year Award.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Twin Cities is a nonprofit organization serving 10 counties in the Twin Cities region, including Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott and Washington counties.

To learn more about how you can help, call 651-789-2400 or visit www.bigstwincities.org.