Big Brothers Big Sisters is an incredible organization that plays a vital role in the lives of many young people. So, what does Big Brothers Big Sisters do exactly? Well, they are dedicated to providing children facing adversity with strong and enduring mentorship relationships.
Through their mentoring programs, Big Brothers Big Sisters matches adult volunteers with children who can benefit from positive role models. These mentors, or “Bigs,” help to empower and inspire their mentees, or “Littles,” by offering guidance, support, and friendship. The goal is to foster personal growth, academic success, and overall well-being.
By participating in activities together and building a meaningful connection, Bigs become trusted friends and advocates for their Littles. This consistent presence makes a significant impact on the lives of these young individuals as they navigate challenges and strive for a brighter future.
History of Big Brothers Big Sisters
Establishment of Big Brothers Big Sisters
The history of Big Brothers Big Sisters dates back to the early 1900s when a young New York court clerk named Ernest Coulter noticed that many boys who appeared before him had no positive male role models in their lives. Fueled by a desire to make a difference, Coulter decided to establish an organization that would match these vulnerable youths with caring adult mentors. In 1904, he founded what is now known as Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.
Coulter’s vision was simple yet powerful: create enduring and impactful relationships between adult volunteers (Big Brothers) and children (Littles) facing adversity. The goal was to provide guidance, support, and friendship to help these young individuals navigate life’s challenges and unlock their full potential.
Early Programs and Initiatives
In its early years, Big Brothers Big Sisters focused primarily on serving boys who lacked positive male influences. However, recognizing the need for mentorship among girls as well, the organization launched its sister program, “Big Sisters,” in 1977. This expansion marked an important milestone in addressing the unique needs and aspirations of young girls across the country.
During this period, several other significant initiatives were introduced to enhance the impact of mentoring relationships. One such initiative was the creation of specialized programs tailored for specific populations, including children from single-parent households or those involved in the juvenile justice system. These targeted efforts aimed to address specific challenges faced by different groups while maintaining the core mission of fostering strong mentor-mentee connections.
Growth and Expansion of the Organization
Over time, word spread about the transformative power of mentoring provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters. As more communities recognized its value, local affiliates began to emerge across different states in America. This grassroots growth contributed immensely to expanding access to mentoring opportunities for countless children throughout the nation.
Today, thanks to decades of dedication, Big Brothers Big Sisters has evolved into the largest and most influential mentoring organization in the United States. With over 240 local affiliates spanning all 50 states, the organization continues to match thousands of mentors with children annually.
What Does Big Brothers Big Sisters Do
As we delve deeper into understanding what Big Brothers Big Sisters does, it becomes evident that their rich history is the foundation for their incredible work today. The establishment of the organization by Ernest Coulter, along with early programs and initiatives focused on expanding opportunities for girls and targeted populations, led to exponential growth and nationwide impact. Through ongoing support from dedicated mentors, volunteers, and local communities, Big Brothers Big Sisters continues to change lives by providing guidance, friendship, and hope for a brighter future. Mission and Vision
At Big Brothers Big Sisters, our mission is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better. We believe that every child has the potential to succeed and thrive in life. By matching them with caring mentors, we aim to empower these young individuals to reach their full potential and break through barriers.
Big Brothers Big Sisters is committed to providing children facing adversity with mentorship opportunities that help them overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. Through our mission-driven programs and dedicated volunteers, we are making a significant impact on the lives of youth across communities. Together, we can create a brighter future for all children.
