Big Brothers and Big Sisters of New York City is encouraging volunteers to step up and become mentors for Bronx children as part of National Mentoring Month.

The organization has provided mentors for troubled children in the borough for more than 100 years. The group says a recent decline in volunteers puts a greater emphasis on the need for help.

Organization officials say volunteers who are able to donate just eight hours per month could make a huge difference. Latoyia Williams, of Big Brothers and Sisters, says the group is looking for mentors who can support, guide and listen to the youth while providing positive encouragement.

Related information: Bronx YMCA