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160 BBBS agency leaders, national staff and board members gather from across the country to advocate for federal policy priorities that support the needs of today’s youth.

Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) held its first distinguished Capitol Hill Day in Washington D.C. on February 28, 2024, with 160 BBBS agency leaders, national staff and board members gathering from across the country to advocate for federal policy priorities that support the needs of today’s youth.

Leaders from across the Big Brothers Big Sisters network participated in more than 165 meetings with members of Congress to advocate for three legislative initiatives that focus on mentorship, workforce development and mental health:

  • Increased funding of $130 million for the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)Youth Mentoring Grant
  • Support for the Youth Workforce Readiness Act
  • Support for the RISE from Trauma Act

Reflecting on the significance of the day, Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America said, “This week, we were proud to bring together 160+ Big Brothers Big Sisters agency leaders, staff, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America board members at our annual BBBS Capitol Hill Day in Washington D.C. The day was centered on what we can all do —regardless of political affiliation—to support our young people in receiving access to positive mentorship.”

Prominent figures in youth mental health gathered for a discussion on the pivotal role of mentorship in society’s growing epidemic of loneliness. The panelists included: Rafael D. Campos, Deputy Director of Public Engagement from the Office of the Surgeon General U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Max Kanner, Health Policy Advisor with U.S. Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL); Dr. George Ake, Director of Training and Implementation Program at UCLA-Duke National Center for Child Traumatic Stress and Director of Training at the Center for Child and Family Health at Duke University; and Bobbi Jo Ortiz, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of El Paso.

The extreme trauma many youth faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with crippling isolation and increased violence, has contributed to a rise in depression, substance abuse, anxiety, and other mental health related struggles for youth. The panel offered perspectives on ways that organizations, adults, and policymakers can support these youth through their challenges, helping them to thrive long-term.

BBBS concluded its Capitol Hill Day with a reception and award ceremony to celebrate the power of positive mentorship and to honor Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) for championing BBBS and policies that support mentorship.

Capitol Hill Day spotlighted BBBSA’s commitment to advancing policies that support youth mentorship and address critical issues faced by youth. By leveraging the collective expertise and advocacy power of its network, BBBS continues to champion the cause of mentorship and empower young people to reach their full potential.

A panel discussion on youth mental health, featuring notable figures from the mental health sector. From left to right: Bobbi Jo Ortiz, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of El Paso; Dr. George Ake, Director of Training and Implementation Program at UCLA-Duke National Center for Child Traumatic Stress and Director of Training at the Center for Child and Family Health at Duke University; Max Kanner, Health Policy Advisor with U.S. Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL); and Rafael D. Campos, Deputy Director of Public Engagement from the Office of the Surgeon General, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
President & CEO Artis Stevens speaking to the audience at the Capitol Hill Day Conference.

Download the letter here.

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Dear Black Men,

As we journey through life, we are humbled by the memories of the men who molded us into the men we are today. Our fathers, uncles, coaches, and spiritual leaders whose influence was instrumental in our transition from boys into men. Their teachings remain with us, guiding us in every aspect of our lives. They instilled in us the audacity to dream big in our careers and the self-worth necessary to be generous in our personal lives and communities.

This invaluable gift we received from these men is one we have always been compelled to share, by becoming mentors ourselves. The young ones we guide have become more than just mentees; they are family. Their experiences have enriched our lives as much as we hope our guidance has influenced theirs.

Now, more than ever, mentorship holds a profound significance. The challenges our youth face are unparalleled. We are witnessing a 40% surge in young people grappling with mental health issues such as depression and feelings of isolation. In addition, there are 30,000 kids on the Big Brothers Big Sisters waitlist for a mentor, and many are Black boys. These are young people nationwide who are eagerly awaiting a compassionate and dedicated adult to support them as they navigate life and unlock their full potential.

We reach out to you because we know you care. And we see the answer within you.

Imagine the ripple effect if we could inspire the potential in kids like us, just as our mentors did, helping them to recognize their worth. Consider how this shift could revolutionize not only their local communities but boardrooms, science labs, arts, public services, and beyond. Picture the healthier, better-connected country we could forge when we harness the inspiring stories, influence, and actions of thousands of more Black men as mentors. Now imagine if that number was 100,000. Or even 1 million. Contemplate the innovation, representation, and growth that would follow, fostering a more inclusive society and economy, shaped by the next generation of Black leaders.

As Howard Thurman, mentor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., wisely noted, “Community cannot feed long on itself. It can only flourish with the coming of others from beyond, their unknown and undiscovered brothers.”

We see the powerful impact you have in your communities and urge you to stand with us. Individually, we can leave an imprint. But together, we can create a legacy. United, we can shift the narrative for the boys and young men who mirror our past selves and embody our collective future.

Artis Stevens,
President & CEO
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America

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Game Changers:

Kelvin Buncum,
Executive Vice President, Neighborhood Markets, Walmart U.S.

Aloe Blacc,
Singer, Songwriter, Philanthropist

Sway Calloway,
Sway in the Morning with Heather B & Tracy G

Tony Coles,
President, Black Information Network, iHeartMedia, BBBSA National Board Member

“GRIFF“,
Comedian,
Motivational Speaker,
Co-Host of Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell

Rachaad White,
Running Back, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, former BBBS “Little”

Terrance Williams,
President and CEO, TruStage

Big Brothers Big Sisters Serves as UPS’s First Official Mentorship Partner Underscoring UPS’s Commitment to Equity for Youth

TAMPA, FL, January 24,2024 – In recognition of National Mentoring Month, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States, and UPS announce the amplification of their partnership, through a multi-year commitment that provides equitable access to careers and opportunities for youth in the workforce.

This strengthened alliance will replicate the success of career readiness pilot programs tested in Atlanta and expand to Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles. The partnership focuses on college and career readiness, workplace mentorship, and family and financial stability for youth.

“Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is thrilled to be UPS’s first official mentoring partner, with a shared goal of helping youth through critical stages of life,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “We look forward to unlocking the potential of more young people as they step into their futures, equipped with the skills, guidance, and opportunities necessary for success in college, career, and beyond. This partnership is a catalyst for lasting change and a more equitable world.”

UPS and BBBSA will introduce diverse career opportunities to youth ages 14+ through the organization’s Big Futures program. This nationwide initiative exposes young people to potential career pathways after high school – whether in higher education or the workforce. Big Futures connects students with mentors, helping them create a personalized plan for their future based on their interests and skill sets.

“Through this partnership with UPS, the youth of Big Brothers Big Sisters will have access to mentors through our extensive network of employees, as well as opportunities for learning and skill development,” said Nikki Clifton, President of Social Impact and The UPS Foundation. “We are proud to team up with Big Brothers Big Sisters to make meaningful connections, promote equity in our communities, and improve access to resources that equip youth for bright futures.”

During the program’s pilot year, UPS worked with BBBSA agencies to provide turnkey volunteer opportunities, by enabling youth from local schools to visit employees at their offices. Students explored career pathways in marketing, finance, supply chain logistics and more. The pilot locations exceeded their target goals for youth served, creating more than 150 matches who experienced positive outcomes and pathways for the future.

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About Big Brothers Big Sisters

Founded in 1904, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is the largest and most experienced youth mentoring organization in the United States. The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Big Brothers Big Sisters’ evidence-based approach is designed to create positive youth outcomes, including educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence, and improved relationships. Big Brothers Big Sisters has over 230 local agencies serving more than 5,000 communities across all 50 states. For more information, visit: www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.

Contacts:

BBBS Communications
Jennifer Banks
media@bbbsa.org

Fundraising and awareness campaign ignites the power of mentorship and possibility.

Macy's 2023 Thanksgiving Day Parade and Big Brothers Big Sisters

TAMPA, FL & NEW YORK, NY, January 22, 2024 – Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS), the nation’s preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization, is thrilled to announce fundraising results from Macy’s 2023 holiday campaign and grant awards. Through the company’s social purpose platform, Mission Every One, which is committed to creating brighter futures with bold representation for all, Macy’s customers raised $4.3 million alongside $400k in grants provided by Macy’s to help create life-changing mentoring experiences. The campaign marked the second year of a multi-year partnership between BBBS and Macy’s.

Throughout November and December 2023, Macy’s customers donated online at macys.com and by rounding up in-store. Critical funds raised expand the reach of BBBS’ mentoring model, connecting more young people with the transformative mentors and mentorship experiences they need to reach their full potential. The campaign engaged all 230+ Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies, reaching more than 5,000 communities in all 50 states.

In 2022, Macy’s, Inc. launched its social purpose platform – Mission Every One – developed to build on the company’s heritage of corporate citizenship and to drive positive societal change. Mission Every One aims to create a brighter future with bold representation for all. Through this work, the company will strengthen communities by empowering the curiosity and confidence of young people on their journey to become the leaders of tomorrow. By 2025, Macy’s, Inc. will direct more than $125 million to nonprofit organizations whose work is aligned with Mission Every One.

“Reflecting back upon on our 2023 campaign, I am inspired by our customers and colleagues who rallied around our commitment to empowering the leaders of tomorrow,” said Bobby Amirshahi, Macy’s, Inc. Corporate Communications and head of social impact and government affairs teams. “As part of the Macy’s, Inc. social purpose platform, Mission Every One, our partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters is a testament to the power of mentorship and programs that provide youth nationwide with transformative and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.”

“Our partnership with Macy’s has created once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for Bigs and Littles throughout the country, and we are thrilled about the possibilities to come as we continue working together,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO, BBBSA. “Our annual holiday campaign, with the support of Macy’s employees and customers, will allow us to continue empowering young people to reach their full potential.”

A Holiday to Remember

November 2023 also marked the first time BBBS Bigs and Littles performed in the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®. Thirty Big and Little matches from a nationwide talent search took center stage on the fan favorite Macy’s Singing Christmas Tree float with access unique mentor experiences and the opportunity create memories that will last a lifetime. Joined by 30 talented Macy’s colleagues, the choir spread cheer along the Parade route and performed holiday classics as they heralded the one-and-only Santa Claus. This year’s telecast was seen by more than 28.5 million viewers on NBC, the largest ever recorded in the Parade’s history.

Macy’s partnership with BBBS also extended into its iconic Herald Square flagship windows this holiday season. Bigs and Littles from across the country were invited to craft handmade holiday paper ornaments that appeared in the windows highlighted throughout the holiday season. The festive windows also showcased the exclusive collection of holiday-themed products noted above and were enjoyed by visitors to Macy’s Herald Square on West 34th Street through the New Year.

This national partnership also included several local components including select Macy’s stores hosting in-store holiday events for Bigs, Littles, and their families to enjoy. More than 100 Macy’s Little Breakfasts took place across the country and created unique and memorable mentorship opportunities that spur youth empowerment.

Mentors for a Brighter Future

Additionally, Macy’s and BBBS hosted their annual celebration of mentors by offering internal recognition and exposure to senior leadership through their ‘Best Mentor & Mentee’ program. Each year, colleagues at both organizations are encouraged to share examples of how they were provided with mentorship at a specific moment in time, peer-to-peer guidance, or a more formal mentoring relationship, including reverse mentorship in the workplace. This program is available to all current Macy’s and BBBS colleagues to promote the mission behind this important partnership and is celebrated each January as a part of National Mentorship Month.

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About Big Brothers Big Sisters

Founded in 1904, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is the largest and most experienced youth mentoring organization in the United States. The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Big Brothers Big Sisters’ evidence-based approach is designed to create positive youth outcomes, including educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence, and improved relationships. Big Brothers Big Sisters has over 230 local agencies serving more than 5,000 communities across all 50 states. For more information, visit: www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.

About Macy’s

Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE: M), serves as the style source for generations of customers. With one of the nation’s largest e-commerce platforms powered by macys.com and mobile app, paired with a nationwide network of stores, Macy’s delivers the most convenient and seamless shopping experience, offering great values in apparel, home, beauty, accessories and more. Macy’s gives customers even more ways to shop and own their style through an off-price assortment at Macy’s Backstage and at our highly curated Macy’s small format stores. Each year, Macy’s provides millions with unforgettable experiences through Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® and helps our customers celebrate special moments, big and small. We’re guided by our purpose—to create a brighter future with bold representation—that empowers more voice, choice and ownership for our colleagues, customers and communities.

Contacts:

Macy’s External Communications
Christine Nealon / Ryan Gannon
communications@macys.com

BBBS Communications
Jennifer Banks
Jennifer.Banks@bbbsa.org

Nationwide Digital Out-of-Home Campaign Features Big Brothers Big Sisters of America’s Inaugural Group of ‘Game Changers’ – Influential Voices Who Embody the Transformative Power of Mentorship

January 16, 2024 – New York, NY – Clear Channel Outdoor (NYSE: CCO), one of the world’s largest out of home (OOH) media providers, and Big Brothers Sisters of America (BBBSA), the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States, today announced the launch of a nationwide digital out-of-home (DOOH) media campaign timed with National Mentoring Month featuring ‘Game Changers,’ an initiative that unites the collective power of influential leaders and changemakers to help tackle key issues impacting youth today– from mental health to equity — by creating awareness, access, and opportunity through mentorship. ‘Game Changers’ provides a platform for diverse groups of influential voices to share their experiences and expertise on the power of mentorship and further impact young people and their communities.

For the month of January, digital billboards will spotlight select leaders from the inaugural ‘Game Changers’ group first announced by BBBSA in October 2023. The inaugural group of ‘Game Changers’, comprised of prominent Black men who embody the transformative power of mentorship, addresses the representational gap in mentorship, as there are currently over 30,000 kids on the BBBS waitlist for a mentor, with the majority being boys of color. With three times more Black youth than Black mentors in BBBSA programs, the ‘Game Changers’ lend their voices and support to shift the mentorship narrative, share their inspiring journeys, and encourage more volunteers, particularly Black men, to get involved. Future groups of Game Changers will consist of leaders from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences to reflect the many inspiring stories and journeys of the young people nationwide who need positive mentorship.

‘Game Changers’ celebrated in this nationwide DOOH social initiative include:

  • Kelvin Beachum, Offensive Tackle, Arizona Cardinals
  • Aloe Blacc, Singer, Songwriter, Philanthropist
  • Nate Burleson, Co-Host, CBS Mornings and Studio Analyst on The NFL Today
  • Sway Calloway, Sway in the Morning with Heather B & Tracy G
  • “GRIFF”, Comedian, Motivational Speaker, Co-Host of Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell
  • Daymond John, CEO & Founder of FUBU and Star of ABC’s Shark Tank
  • Solomon Thomas, Defensive Tackle, New York Jets
  • Rachaad White, Running Back, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Alumni “Little”

“We are proud to partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America to underscore the necessity of mentorship for young people across the country, especially those who are from disadvantaged communities,” said Dan Levi, EVP & CMO, Clear Channel Outdoor. “National Mentoring Month allows us the opportunity to use the power of out of home to educate populations nationwide on the urgency of us coming together to help increase the number of mentors to make sure young adults have dependable people to look up to and follow in their footsteps. Artis Stevens and his team at Big Brothers Big Sisters of America continue to develop impactful initiatives to elevate the importance of one-to-one mentoring, and we are honored to showcase their ‘Game Changers’ on our medium.”

“Our collaboration with Clear Channel Outdoor is not just about visibility; it’s a powerful testament to the importance of community and corporate partnership in addressing the mentorship gap,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO, BBBSA. “Through Clear Channel Outdoor’s expansive network of digital platforms, the ‘Game Changers’ billboard series ignites a national conversation about the necessity and transformative power of mentorship in reaching the young people who need it the most. Together, we are creating a movement that encourages people to get involved as mentors, as even little actions within communities nationwide have the potential to make a big impact.”

About Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc.

Clear Channel Outdoor Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CCO) is at the forefront of driving innovation in the out-of-home advertising industry. Our dynamic advertising platform is broadening the pool of advertisers using our medium through the expansion of digital billboards and displays and the integration of data analytics and programmatic capabilities that deliver measurable campaigns that are simpler to buy. By leveraging the scale, reach and flexibility of our diverse portfolio of assets, we connect advertisers with millions of consumers every month across more than 330,000 print and digital displays in 19 countries, excluding businesses held for sale. 

This November, and for the first time ever, BBBS with select Bigs and Littles will perform in the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®.

A Holiday to Remember

NEW YORK, November 24, 2023 – This November, and for the first time ever, BBBS with select Bigs and Littles will perform in the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Thirty Bigs and Littles from a nationwide talent search will take center stage on the fan favorite Macy’s Singing Christmas Tree float this Thanksgiving. Joined by 30 talented Macy’s colleagues, the choir will spread cheer along the route and perform holiday classics as they herald the one-and-only Santa Claus.

How to Watch

Get ready to experience the magic of the Macy’s Parade right from your screens! 🌟💚 Tune in live on NBC or stream it on Peacock, starting at 8:30 a.m. until 12 p.m. this Nov. 23. Don’t miss out – join the celebration online with #BeBig & #MacysParade!

Stay Up-To-Date and Join the Celebration!

About Macy’s

Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE: M), serves as the style source for generations of customers. With one of the nation’s largest e-commerce platforms powered by macys.com and mobile app, paired with a nationwide network of stores, Macy’s delivers the most convenient and seamless shopping experience, offering great values in apparel, home, beauty, accessories and more. Macy’s gives customers even more ways to shop and own their style through an off-price assortment at Macy’s Backstage and at our highly curated Macy’s small format stores. Each year, Macy’s provides millions with unforgettable experiences through Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® and helps our customers celebrate special moments, big and small. We’re guided by our purpose—to create a brighter future with bold representation—that empowers more voice, choice and ownership for our colleagues, customers and communities.

Contacts:

Macy’s External Communications
Christine Nealon / Ryan Gannon
communications@macys.com

Humana Foundation Invests in Innovative Mental Health and Nutrition Programming for Seniors and School-Aged Children.

Grants totaling $12.9 million span four regions – Kentucky, Florida, Louisiana and Texas – and four Health Equity Innovation Fund projects combatting loneliness and depression.

November 14, 2023 – The Humana Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM) for the past 41 years, today announced a series of grants advancing its regional health equity mission by supporting seniors and school-aged children in living connected, healthy lives. The 23 grants spanning four geographies – Kentucky, Florida, Louisiana, and Texas – and four Health Equity Innovation Fund projects will help beneficiaries create healthy emotional connections and shape a healthier approach to nutrition for lifelong well-being.

The investment totaling $12.9 million includes a $4.9 million grant to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBS) to initiate and elevate mental health programs at chapters in the four geographies, including mental health first aid training for mentors and related coursework for youth.

“Today, there’s a critical need to provide young people with mental health supports. At BBBS, we know the positive impact mentorship has on youth well-being, inclusion and belonging, and social capital,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO, BBBS. “Through our partnership with the Humana Foundation, we will harness the collective power of mentorship to expand our mental health and wellness programs, resources and training to create healthy emotional connections and empower youth.”

To learn even more and read the entire press release, please visit https://press.humana.com/news.

Macy’s partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters provides critical funds through a give back campaign, mentor experiences and a once in a lifetime experience at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®

NEW YORK, October 30, 2023 – This holiday season, Macy’s highlights its dedication to youth empowerment through its partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS). As part of the brand’s social purpose platform, Mission Every One, from November 1 through December 24, Macy’s will launch a special in-store round up (up to $.99) and online donation campaign to benefit BBBS’ mission of serving young people through the power of mentorship to help create paths for future success. In its inaugural year, the partnership prompted Macy’s customers and colleagues to raise more than $4.8 million to help fuel life-changing mentoring experiences.

Macy’s and BBBS will reinforce a year-round commitment to youth empowerment and mentorship by fostering a culture that prioritizes and celebrates this critical relationship building. New this year, the campaign will create a once in a lifetime experience at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® for adult volunteers (Bigs) and young people (Littles). Designated Littles will also display their talent by designing collectible product and becoming the face of the marketing campaign.

Macy’s customers will also have an opportunity to shop an exclusive collection of holiday-themed products, styled with original drawings by 19 Littles for only $19.99. Through December 31, 2023, 50% of the purchase price of the BBBS-designed teddy bear, ornament and mug will benefit the organization to help create life-changing mentorships for young people.

“Following a banner kick-off partnership year with Big Brothers Big Sisters, we are energized to see our colleagues and customers rally around our commitment to empower young people. This work aims to inspire the next generation of leaders to achieve their highest potential,” said Bobby Amirshahi, senior vice president of Macy’s, Inc. Corporate Communications and head of Macy’s community and social impact work. “Our social purpose platform Mission Every One was designed in part to break down barriers to equity and representation with programs that help young people feel confident to own their story and pursue their dreams. BBBS plays a critical role in advancing this work by serving young people through the power of mentorship.”

“As we once again embark on this exciting journey of partnership with Macy’s during the holiday season, our entire Big Brothers Big Sisters network is ready and reenergized to build on our work to create meaningful experiences of positive mentorship for young people,” said Artis Stevens, president and CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “Together, we believe in the potential of every child and the transformative impact that mentorship, access, and opportunities can have on their lives. We look forward to our continued collaboration to empower youth through mentorship across the country.”

A Holiday to Remember

This November, and for the first time ever, BBBS with select Bigs and Littles will perform in the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Thirty Bigs and Littles from a nationwide talent search will take center stage on the fan favorite Macy’s Singing Christmas Tree float this Thanksgiving. Joined by 30 talented Macy’s colleagues, the choir will spread cheer along the route and perform holiday classics as they herald the one-and-only Santa Claus.

Macy’s partnership with BBBS will also extend into its iconic Herald Square flagship windows this holiday season. Bigs and Littles from across the country have been invited to decorate paper ornaments that will appear on the windows beginning November 16. The festive windows will also showcase the Little designed product collection and can be enjoyed at Macy’s Herald Square on West 34th Street through the New Year.

Mentors for a Brighter Future

Throughout the year, Macy’s is committed to creating opportunities for Bigs and Littles that promote empowerment, self-discovery and learning opportunities. This summer, Macy’s, Inc. hosted an afternoon of candid learning between Littles and senior leadership. The session – led by Jeff Gennette, Macy’s, Inc. Chairman and CEO; Tony Spring, Macy’s, Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer-Elect; and Artis Stevens, BBBS President and CEO – included an afternoon of lively discussion between leaders and 15 Littles around building professional and peer networks, self-advocacy, workplace mentorship, and identifying strengths and being your authentic self at work.

To bring the partnership to life nationwide, select Macy’s stores will host localized events for Bigs and Littles. Macy’s Little Breakfasts will create opportunities for youth empowerment by helping BBBS local agencies kick-off the holiday season in style with a breakfast reception and shopping spree, complete with gift cards for Littles to pick out gifts on their list.

Additionally, Macy’s and BBBS will each host a formal celebration of mentors by offering financial bonuses, internal recognition, and exposure to senior leadership through the Best Mentor & Mentee program. Colleagues at both organizations are encouraged to share examples of where they provided mentorship at a specific moment in time, peer-to-peer guidance, or a more formal mentoring relationship, including reverse mentorship. This program will be available to all Macy’s and BBBS colleagues to promote the mission behind this important partnership.

For more information, please visit macys.com/purpose. Join the conversation on social by tagging @macys and @bbbsamerica.

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About Macy’s

Macy’s, the largest retail brand of Macy’s, Inc. (NYSE: M), serves as the style source for generations of customers. With one of the nation’s largest e-commerce platforms powered by macys.com and mobile app, paired with a nationwide network of stores, Macy’s delivers the most convenient and seamless shopping experience, offering great values in apparel, home, beauty, accessories and more. Macy’s gives customers even more ways to shop and own their style through an off-price assortment at Macy’s Backstage and at our highly curated Macy’s small format stores. Each year, Macy’s provides millions with unforgettable experiences through Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks® and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® and helps our customers celebrate special moments, big and small. We’re guided by our purpose—to create a brighter future with bold representation—that empowers more voice, choice and ownership for our colleagues, customers and communities.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters

Founded in 1904, Big Brothers Big Sisters is the largest and most experienced youth mentoring organization in the United States. The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Big Brothers Big Sisters’ evidence-based approach is designed to create positive youth outcomes, including educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence, and improved relationships. Big Brothers Big Sisters has over 230 local agencies serving more than 5,000 communities across all 50 states.  For more information, visit www.bbbs.org.

Contacts:

Macy’s External Communications
Christine Nealon / Ryan Gannon
communications@macys.com

 BBBS Communications
Jennifer Banks
Jennifer.Banks@bbbsa.org

May, 2023 – Morning Consult’s Most Trusted Brands® report, shines a spotlight on the brands that have earned consumers’ trust when it comes to doing what’s right. They know that trust is hard to earn, but it’s foundational for brands when weathering missteps. It’s not a consumer metric that changes much from year to year, so once a brand lands a top spot on Morning Consult’s rankings, it rarely moves. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is proud to have made the list!

To learn even more about Morning Consult’s 2023 Most Trusted Brands report, please visit https://pro.morningconsult.com.

The inaugural group of Game Changers will address the mentorship gap impacting the Black community.

TAMPA, FL, October 17, 2023 – Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States, announces Game Changers, a new initiative that unites the collective power of influential leaders and changemakers to help tackle key issues impacting youth today—from mental health to equity—by creating awareness, access, and opportunity through mentorship. Through Big Brothers Big Sisters, Game Changers will provide a platform for diverse groups of influential voices to share their experiences and expertise on the power of mentorship and further impact young people and their communities.

Today, one in three kids in America is growing up without a sustained adult mentor in their lives. In addition, over 30,000 young people are on the organization’s national waitlist, with the majority being boys of color, waiting to be matched with a mentor. This urgent need fuels the purpose of Game Changers as an opportunity for influential leaders from diverse backgrounds to reinforce that mentorship isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a necessity.

The inaugural group of Game Changers will convene prominent Black men who embody the transformative power of mentorship. They will support BBBSA’s efforts to attract more Bigs and create impactful mentorship opportunities that address the representational gap in mentorship, as there are currently three times more Black youth than there are Black mentors in BBBS’ programs.  

The Game Changers will lend their voices and support to shift the mentorship narrative, share their inspiring journeys and encourage more volunteers, particularly Black men, to get involved. The group of Game Changers includes: 

  • Makola M. Abdullah, Ph.D., President of Virginia State University, BBBSA National Board Member
  • Kelvin Beachum, Offensive Tackle, Arizona Cardinals
  • Aloe Blacc, Singer, Songwriter, Philanthropist
  • Wayne Brady, Emmy Award-winning Actor, Producer, TV Personality, former BBBS “Big”
  • Kelvin Buncum, Executive Vice President, Neighborhood Markets, Walmart U.S.
  • Nate Burleson, Co-Host, CBS Mornings and The NFL Today
  • Sway Calloway, Sway in the Morning with Heather B & Tracy G
  • Tony Coles, President, Black Information Network, iHeartMedia, BBBSA National Board Member
  • “GRIFF”, Comedian, Motivational Speaker, Co-Host of Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell
  • Daymond John, CEO & Founder of FUBU and Star of ABC’s Shark Tank
  • Solomon Thomas, Defensive Tackle, New York Jets
  • Rachaad White, Running Back, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, former BBBS “Little”
  • Terrance Williams, President and CEO, TruStage

“At BBBSA, we believe in the powerful truth that ‘if you can see it, you can be it’. Each Game Changer embodies the profound impact of mentorship and possesses the power to spark the aspirations of the next generation of leaders.” said Artis Stevens, president and CEO, BBBSA. “By working alongside this inspiring group of influential voices, BBBSA will continue to create access for young people and bridge the gap between young people and possibility. In alignment with BBBSA’s ‘It Takes Little to be Big’ national brand campaign, Game Changers also represents an invitation, a national call-to-action for volunteers, partners, BBBS alumni, and supporters to help spark countless mentoring moments that can make a big difference.”

Future groups of Game Changers will continue to consist of leaders from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences to reflect that many inspiring stories and journeys of the young people across our country who need positive mentorship. They will take bold action around additional priority issues and challenges faced by youth nationwide, through the power of mentorship.  

BBBSA has also teamed up with industry leaders such as TikTok to amplify Game Changers’ mentorship stories and rally volunteer support. Additionally, in collaboration with Clear Channel Outdoor, digital billboards spotlighting select Game Changers will launch nationwide in January 2024.

For more information visit bbbs.org/game-changers.