1,232 kids matched but more await Bigs

The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters is to “provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.” We are proud to report that, with the partnership of the communities we serve, we were able to match and support 1,232 children and their mentors as they traveled the path to success during 2012.

It is exciting that more than 100 years into the existence of our organization, the life-changing relationships formed by Bigs and Littles continue to have a powerful impact on the children. After a year in the program, over 50 percent of our Littles feel more accepted by their peers. Even more importantly, over 50 percent of these kids feel more connected to school and are more confident in their academic abilities.

While we are thrilled to have served 1,232 Littles last year, unfortunately we are still not fully meeting the needs of our community. There are more than 200 boys waiting for a Big Brother. Each year, more boys request mentors than girls but, because more women volunteer than men, girls are matched with a Big much sooner than boys. We need your help finding more men willing to step forward and mentor the boys who are waiting.

How can you help? If you are interested in mentoring a child, it doesn’t take much to make a big impact – just four to eight hours a month for a year. If you don’t have the time to be a Big, you can help us by telling friends and family about Big Brothers Big Sisters. And of course, you can help by making a donation. You can donate on our website, ThinkBigToday.org, or by returning the enclosed envelope with your contribution.

No matter how you are able to help, remember, it only takes a LITTLE to make a BIG difference!