One of the largest children's charities in the United States, Big Brothers Big Sisters, is also the oldest and largest youth mentoring organization in the United States. National research has shown that the positive relationships between Big Brothers and Big Sisters and their "Littles" have a direct, measurable, and lasting impact on children's lives.
Research and anecdotal evidence show specifically that one-to-one mentoring helps at-risk youth overcome the many challenges they face. Little Brothers and Sisters are less likely to begin using illegal drugs, consume alcohol, skip school and classes, or engage in acts of violence. They have greater self-esteem, confidence in their schoolwork performance, and are able to get along better with their friends and families.
As of 2004, the organization served more than 225,000 youths, ages five through 18, in 5,000 communities across the country. To find out more about becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister, or how to support them in their mission, visit www.bbbsa.org.
