Debt Shield Continues Big Brother Big Sister Program for 3rd Year

Columbia, MD, October 29, 2008 --(PR.com)-- Employees at Debt Shield, a Maryland-based debt settlement company, are donating their money and time to Howard County Big Brother Big Sister for the third year.

Debt Shield staff made their latest charitable donation at the same time they begin their third year mentoring elementary school children through the "Bigs in School" program. Through this program, volunteers visit participating schools to mentor students during weekly lunch visits at two local elementary schools. Volunteers (or "Bigs") are paired with elementary school students ("Littles") based on the children's' needs, interests, age and gender.

"Our employees form lasting relationships with children and provide the mentoring that can help these children excel in school and in life," said Debt Shield's Talent Development Director Jill Strider. "It's truly a rewarding experience for our team members as well as for the children."

Debt Shield employees build mentoring relationships with local children by showing up, helping with homework, listening, talking and playing games. The program lets volunteers impact children's lives while fitting visits into each volunteer's work schedules.

"The program is perfect for working professionals who like the idea of helping a child, but simply don't have the time to devote to the program fulltime," explained Kim Crane, Debt Shield's Lead Marketing Manager and a Big Sister since 2006. "It's amazing how you can build a fruitful relationship in 45 minutes a week."

All of Debt Shield's volunteers from last year are returning this year, and the number of volunteers is growing. Debt Shield has volunteers from the Marketing, Sales, Administration, Talent Development Departments and CEO Phil Fewster.

In addition to volunteering their time, Debt Shield employees also chose the Big Brother Big Sister program as the recipient of the company's latest Denim Fund donation. Employees contribute to the fund weekly in exchange for wearing jeans to work on Fridays. Funds are then donated to employee-selected charities.

About Debt Shield:

Debt Shield, Inc., is an award-winning debt settlement company helping consumers resolve their unsecured debt through mutually agreeable, discounted settlements in consideration of the consumers’ legitimate financial hardships. By helping consumers avoid bankruptcy, Debt Shield provides a service for both debtors and creditors. For more information about Debt Shield, call 1-888-397-7546 or visit the website at www.debtshield.com.

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