Big Brothers Big Sisters is committed to bringing the power of mentoring to youth from traditionally underserved communities. Through the following specially designed programs, we are able to target specific populations and communities.

Mentoring Children of Prisoners

Research shows that 70 percent of children of incarcerated parents will themselves at some point be incarcerated – unless they have positive adult intervention.That is why mentoring children of prisoners is a key component of Big Brothers Big Sisters’ goal to reach more kids, especially those who may face significant risk factors.

Male and Minority Mentor Recruitment

Why do we need Big Brothers?
More than 70% of our children are waiting for a Big are boys, but only three out of every 10 inquiries to volunteer come from men.  Research shows that having the positive influence of a Big Brother makes a real difference in the life of a boy.  So join the millions of volunteers that give a young person someone to look up to and learn why so many are now saying, “I get back so much more than I give.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters especiallly wants to recuit African-American and Hispanic men as "Bigs." Boys need everyday role models more than ever. They need the influence of men who are familiar with the challenges of growing up in today's society, and with whom they share a heritage. Big Brothers are everyday people, from hourly workers to professionals to retirees.

Being a Big Brothers is rewarding! You get to be a kid again, and your Little gets a friend. You enjoy activities together like playing ball, going to a movie or just hanging out together. It's not about spending money; it's about spending time. Just a few hours a couple of times a month is all it takes to change his life.

Hispanic Mentoring Initiative

Latinos make up about 14 percent of the nation’s population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. More than one-third of all Hispanics in the United States are under age 18. Over one-quarter of Hispanic children under 18 in the U.S. live in poverty.

We are committed to serving the needs of Hispanic children and families across the country. The Hispanic Mentoring Initiative continues the Big Brothers Big Sisters tradition of outreach to all at-risk youth by emphasizing the connection with Hispanic communities and the recruitment of Latino volunteers and Littles.

More than one-third of all Hispanics in the United States are under the age of 18; more than one-quarter of them are living in poverty.  These children could benefit from having a male role model in their lives. A Big Brother who knows and understands the unique challenges they face will have a lasting positive impact on the lives of these boys.

African-American Men
We are faced with a crisis – and you can help.  Too many African-American boys throughout the county are at risk of dropping out of school, getting involved in drugs--losing their way.  Having a Big Brother who can guide them and help them make positive choices will change their lives and make our communities stronger.

Big Brothers Big Sisters currently partners with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. To read more about this National partnership, click here.

You might also be interested in the new African-American microsite: www.mentoringbrothers.org.

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