Posts - Big Brothers Big Sisters of America

Collaboration will leverage the reach of Prime Video to inspire new mentors and expand mentoring experiences for youth across the country

PSA will debut on Thursday Night Football on September 18

Tampa, FL – September 18, 2025 – Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the nation’s largest youth mentoring organization, today announces a collaboration with Amazon Prime Video to amplify the power of mentorship and inspire more individuals across the country to become mentors (“Bigs”). The collaboration launches with the debut of a national PSA titled “You Got This,” featuring Emmy-nominated Thursday Night Football feature reporter and NBA on Prime host, Taylor Rooks, and Thursday Night Football analyst and Super Bowl Champion, Andrew Whitworth, who appear alongside Big Brothers Big Sisters “Bigs” and youth participants, affectionately called “Littles”. The PSA highlights the impact a mentor can have through presence and empowerment, building on the organization’s campaign, It Takes Little to Be Big, which aims to break down misconceptions about mentoring and remind people that anyone can make a difference as a Big.

The spot will stream on Prime Video during the NFL season, as part of its commitment to donated media to BBBSA. The PSA will debut during the Thursday Night Football game on September 18 as the Miami Dolphins take on the Buffalo Bills.

“Sports have always been a space where mentorship thrives, where everyday activities and simple words of encouragement can be life-changing for a young person,” said Adam Vasallo, Chief Marketing Officer for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “Teaming up with Prime Video allows us to reach audiences in new and powerful ways alongside incredible champions like Taylor and Andrew who welcome the opportunity to amplify the power of mentorship.”

The collaboration with Prime Sports, will also extend behind the scenes to inspire action, create access, and open doors of opportunity for youth nationwide through job and career shadowing experiences with talent and production across the NFL and NBA.

“We’re thrilled to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of America to highlight the transformative power of mentorship during Thursday Night Football and across Prime Video this fall,” said Stacey Rosenson, Head of U.S. Sports Marketing, Prime Video. “By showcasing their mission to millions of viewers each week, we hope to inspire more people to become mentors and create lasting positive change in children’s lives.”

For more information about how to become a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters, visit www.bbbs.org.

###

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of America 

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 local agencies serve more than 5,000 communities across all 50 states.

About Prime Sports
Prime Video supports a growing lineup of live sports globally, including Thursday Night Football, NBA, NASCAR, the New York Yankees, Seattle Kraken, and Overtime Elite in the United States; Premier Boxing Champions in the United States, United Kingdom and Canada; the NWSL, the WNBA, and ONE Championship in the United States and Canada; NHL Prime Monday Night Hockey and PWHL in Canada; UEFA Champions League football in Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and Ireland; Roland-Garros in France; Wimbledon in Germany and Austria; Premier League in Sweden and Denmark; New Zealand Cricket in India; ICC Cricket in Australia; Copa do Brasil football, Serie A football and the NBA in Brazil; boxing in Japan; and Chivas in Mexico. While availability varies by marketplace, fans can also subscribe to streaming services such as FanDuel Sports Network, Eurosport, FOX Sports (Mexico), Viaplay Sport, MLB.TV, NBA League Pass, NBA TV, DAZN (Germany and Spain), and Premiere FC (Brazil) through Prime Video add-on subscriptions. This is in addition to a selection of Amazon Original documentaries including Kelce, Bye Bye Barry, Coach Prime, Giannis, and the Amazon Original All or Nothing franchise, including All or Nothing: Arsenal, All or Nothing: Juventus, All or Nothing: Toronto Maple Leafs, and All or Nothing seasons with various NFL teams, as well as the NCAA’s Michigan Wolverines football team.

#Press release

New Harris Poll survey reports young adults feel isolated, lack confidence and hesitate to seek advice while navigating today’s job market

TAMPA, Fla. (SEPTEMBER 9, 2025) – It’s no surprise Gen Zers confronting a job market defined by rising costs and fierce competition are facing overwhelming uncertainty. But new findings released today from Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) reveal a stunning truth: nearly three-in-four young people (74%) lack access to this critical resource that could transform their career confidence: mentorship.

Findings from its 2025 Youth Mentorship Access Report±, conducted by The Harris Poll, expose a career confidence crisis among 18- to 25-year-olds. One-in-three report frequent or constant uncertainty about their future jobs, citing not just a lack of opportunities, but also concerns about mental health, work-life balance, and being able to make ends meet.

“Despite having the highest educational achievement rates in history, our youth are facing a confidence crisis,” said Libby Rodney, Chief Strategy Officer, The Harris Poll. “This isn’t about work ethic – it’s about a generation that needs guidance.”

Only 41% of young people feel highly confident navigating today’s job market, a number that plummets when mentorship is missing. Many don’t know where to turn for guidance, feel uncomfortable reaching out, or fear they’ll just be a burden to busy adults. This lack of access to mentorship is one of the top factors limiting young people’s confidence in their career paths – second only to financial instability.

“Today’s young people are facing a job market unlike any other generation,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “These findings confirm what we already know: mentorship isn’t optional – it’s essential. Research shows that a single meaningful conversation can change the course of a young person’s life, serving as a bridge between where our youth are and where they have the potential to go. We must act now to ensure every young person has access to the mentorship they deserve.”

The report highlights the life-changing impact of mentorship:

84% say mentorship opens doors to possibilities they never would have seen on their own

83% agree a mentor bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world success

81% feel more confident making decisions about school, work, and life thanks to mentorship

65% have had a conversation with an adult outside their family that changed their career direction

Young people aren’t just seeking career advice or for older adults to solve their problems for them. They are hungry for authentic, in-person connections with adults who can guide them on everything from financial planning to life skills. When asked what really matters in a mentor, it was the soft “durable” skills like honesty, communication, and empathy that topped the list – outranking even professional success or industry expertise.

“Mentorship rooted in durable and soft skills is a true game-changer,” said Ginneh Baugh, Chief Impact Officer at BBBSA. “When young people have mentors who model durable skills like empathy, honesty, communication, and resilience, they gain the confidence to overcome challenges and thrive – not just in their careers, but in every aspect of their lives.”

BBBSA is calling on communities, businesses, and leaders nationwide to address the career confidence crisis by helping to close the mentorship gap. The time for action is now because every young person deserves a champion in their corner. To learn more or get involved, visit www.bbbs.org.

±Conducted by The Harris Poll, May 2-16, 2025, among 1,049 U.S. adults aged 18-25, designed with the Big Brothers Big Sisters National Youth Council.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA)

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 serves more than 5,000 communities across all 50 states.

About the Harris Poll

The Harris Poll is one of the longest-running surveys in the U.S., tracking public opinion, motivations, and social sentiment since 1963. Now part of Harris Insights & Analytics, we provide market intelligence that helps businesses and policymakers make informed decisions. To learn more, visit https://theharrispoll.com.

Media Contacts

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America: media@bbbs.org

The Harris Poll: Libby Rodney, lrodney@harrispoll.com

Veteran nonprofit fundraising executive brings nearly two decades of strategic revenue experience to advance BBBSA’s mission

TAMPA, FL – (September 8, 2025) – Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the nation’s leading youth mentoring organization, announces Bryan Klopack as Chief Development Officer. In this role, Klopack will spearhead the organization’s comprehensive fundraising strategy and revenue generation initiatives to amplify BBBSA’s mission of creating and supporting transformative mentoring relationships in the lives of young people.

Driven by an unwavering commitment to youth development and nearly two decades of nonprofit leadership, Klopack brings a proven track record of building high-performing development teams, driving operational excellence, and orchestrating diverse revenue portfolios within prominent national organizations. His extensive background in corporate partnerships, individual giving, and major donor stewardship, combined with his expertise in storytelling, advocacy, and mission-driven brand alignment positions him to elevate BBBSA’s fundraising capabilities to new heights.

“I would not be where I am today without the mentors who believed in me, challenged me, and guided me along the way. Their impact fuels my passion for ensuring every young person has access to that same kind of transformative support,” says Klopack. “Big Brothers Big Sisters has an extraordinary legacy of changing lives, and I am humbled to help build the resources and partnerships needed to expand this mission so that every child can realize their full potential.”

Klopack’s impressive career spans leadership roles at nationally recognized organizations including Reading is Fundamental and Special Olympics. Most recently, he served as Chief Growth Officer at Autism Speaks, where he led the development of a forward-looking revenue strategy integrating corporate partnerships, major gift efforts, and future-ready digital and grassroots engagement programs—positioning Autism Speaks to thrive in a rapidly shifting philanthropic landscape.

“We are excited to welcome Bryan to the Big Brothers Big Sisters family as we enter an ambitious new chapter of growth and impact,” said Artis Stevens, President and Chief Executive Officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “His demonstrated ability to scale development operations, coupled with his genuine passion for our mission, makes Bryan uniquely qualified to accelerate our fundraising efforts and fuel our continued expansion to ensure every young person has access to life-changing mentorship opportunities.”

Klopack resides in Washington, D.C., with his wife and two children.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA)

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 serves more than 5,000 communities across all 50 states.

Media Contacts

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America: media@bbbs.org

Tim Midkiff promoted to Chief Financial and Operations Officer and Theresa Agonia promoted to Chief of Staff

TAMPA, FL (September 4, 2025) – Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the nation’s leading youth mentoring organization, announces two senior leadership roles to its executive team. Tim Midkiff has been promoted to Chief Financial and Operations Officer (CFOO), and Theresa Agonia has been promoted to Chief of Staff. Both leaders will continue working directly with President and CEO, Artis Stevens, to drive enterprise-wide alignment, strategic execution, and organizational impact.

The leadership transitions reflect BBBSA’s commitment to building transformational capacity as the organization advances its mission to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.

Tim Midkiff: Chief Financial and Operations Officer

In his expanded role as CFOO, Midkiff will provide strategic direction for BBBSA’s overall financial health, sustainability, and growth while leading enterprise-wide operational coordination across all departments. His responsibilities will include overseeing multi-year budgeting and financial planning, guiding cross-functional strategic initiatives, and ensuring operational frameworks support the organization’s mission-driven growth.

“Tim has consistently demonstrated the strategic vision and operational expertise needed to guide complex, organization-wide initiatives,” Stevens added. “His promotion to CFOO recognizes his proven ability to align financial strategy with mission impact and coordinate execution across our entire enterprise.”

Midkiff brings extensive experience in nonprofit financial operations and has previously led major organizational efforts including disaster relief initiatives and technology implementations. In his new role, he will work closely with all senior leadership team members to accelerate the organization’s growth trajectory and strengthen operational excellence.

Theresa Agonia: Chief of Staff

As Chief of Staff, Agonia will serve as a strategic advisor and operational partner to the CEO while leading comprehensive executive office strategy. She will manage enterprise-wide strategic initiatives, coordinate senior leadership team engagement, and optimize CEO focus on external leadership, development partnerships, and executive visibility.

“Theresa’s promotion into this pivotal role reflects her exceptional ability to integrate complex initiatives and ensure coordinated execution across our organization,” Stevens noted. “Her strategic leadership will strengthen our ability to maintain alignment, accountability, and consistency as we advance BBBSA’s mission at scale.”

In her enhanced role, Agonia will oversee executive office operations, manage strategic executive communications positioning, and facilitate cross-departmental collaboration on major initiatives. She will also work closely with the CFOO to drive strategic planning processes and ensure enterprise-wide priorities remain coordinated and on track.

“These promotions formalize the exceptional strategic contributions Tim and Theresa have already been making to our organization,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “As we accelerate our growth strategy, these enhanced leadership roles will ensure we have operational excellence, financial stewardship, and strategic coordination necessary to serve even more youth nationwide.”

Hosted by eight-time Grammy nominated comedian Jim Gaffigan, the event will include a special performance by 17-time Grammy award-winning artist Sting and celebrate Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Co-President Andreas C. Dracopoulos, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, iHeartMedia Chairman & CEO Bob Pittman, and Carlyle CEO Harvey Schwartz

NEW YORK, NY – (August 19, 2025) – Big Brothers Big Sisters of America today announce the BIG Benefit, a milestone celebration marking the organization’s 120th anniversary and launching an ambitious goal to reach more kids across the country with life changing mentorship. The one-time event will take place on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, in New York City at Cipriani South Street.

The evening will recognize extraordinary Changemakers Andreas C. Dracopoulos, Co-President of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF), Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner, Bob Pittman, Chairman and CEO of iHeartMedia, and Harvey Schwartz, CEO of Carlyle, whose work exemplifies the power of mentorship and vision.

“This 120th anniversary represents not just our history, but also an opportunity to galvanize more people to break the cycle for 10 million kids who don’t have positive and sustained mentors in their lives,” says Artis Stevens, president and CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “We’re leveraging this moment as a unique opportunity to be a catalyst for hundreds of thousands of young people, volunteers and their families over the next several years.”

The celebration will feature eight-time Grammy nominated comedian Jim Gaffigan as emcee, guiding attendees through an inspiring evening, culminating with a special performance by 17-time Grammy award-winning artist Sting.

“This isn’t just a fundraising event – it’s a rallying moment that will launch the next chapter of our mission, says Stevens.”

What started as one champion with a vision to match one kid with one mentor has grown into the largest and most prestigious mentoring organization in the country. Now, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is launching “One Big Vision” – an ambitious five-point plan to:

Train one million mentors to support kids’ well-being

Embed mentors in 1,000 schools that need support most

Ensure every company has a youth workplace mentoring program

Ignite 20 million alumni Bigs and Littles to re-engage and champion mentorship in communities nationwide

Make mentoring a funding priority at federal, state, and local government levels

To learn more about Big Benefit and opportunities to champion mentorship, visit https://www.bbbs.org/the-big-benefit/.

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. Our mission is to create and support mentoring relationships that help all young people reach their potential. Big Brothers Big Sisters’ evidence-based approach is designed to foster positive outcomes from kindergarten into adulthood, enabling every young person we engage and support to dream bigger and have greater confidence, higher educational achievement, professional success, and lasting, fulfilling relationships. We have local affiliated agencies serving over 5,000 communities across all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

TAMPA, Fla., July 22, 2025 – Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS), the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States, is excited to announce the fundraising results from Ulta Beauty’s month-long in-store donation program in support of BBBS’ youth-focused wellness initiatives. In its second year, the national partnership between BBBS and the Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation, Ulta Beauty’s guests and 58,000 associates raised more than $2.4 million to support BBBS’ wellness programs, training and resources for young people across the country.

From May 18 to June 14, 2025, shoppers visiting Ulta Beauty’s 1,400+ stores nationwide and Ulta.com were given the opportunity to donate to Big Brothers Big Sisters at check-out. Additionally, every donation made with the Ulta Beauty Rewards Credit Card at Ulta Beauty stores during this time period was matched by Bread Financial, up to $75,000. The program will benefit BBBS participants across nearly 5,000 communities.

“We’re honored to continue our partnership with the Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation in support of young people’s wellness and growth,” said Big Brothers Big Sisters of America President and CEO, Artis Stevens. “At a time when youth face growing pressures and uncertainty, mentorship remains a powerful force that builds confidence, connection, and hope. Together with Ulta Beauty, we are proud to expand opportunities that elevate young people so they can live happy and fulfilling lives.”

“Our partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters is a meaningful example of how we can leverage the power of beauty as a force for good,” said Anita Ryan, chief human resources officer at Ulta Beauty and president of the Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation. “I’m incredibly proud of how our associates, guests and partners came together to increase access to mental health and well-being programs, helping more young people realize their full potential and unleash their possibilities.”

As a national well-being partner and as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to the well-being of teens, Ulta Beauty is also supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters in offering custom experiences and access to self-care, self-expression and self-discovery resources to hundreds of thousands of young people. Together, Ulta Beauty and BBBS hosted a number of activities including Days of Possibilities, a meaningful experience for BBBS Littles (or mentees) and their Bigs (mentors) across the US. These special engagements were designed to demonstrate how strong supportive relationships can inspire confidence, improve well-being, and show that the possibilities are beautiful.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters

Contacts:

BBBS Communications
Jennifer Banks
media@bbbs.org

TAMPA, FL (July 8, 2025) — Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the leading youth mentoring organization in the United States, has appointed Terrance Williams, President and Chief Executive Officer of TruStage, as its newest board member.

Williams brings extensive leadership experience in insurance, financial services, and digital innovation to the board. As President and CEO of TruStage, a leading provider of insurance and financial services, he oversees operations across the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean. Williams is passionate about making brighter financial futures accessible to everyone and has a proven track record of driving innovation across multiple industries.

“We are thrilled to welcome Terrance to our board at a time when his expertise in digital transformation and strategic leadership will be invaluable,” said BBBSA’s National Board Chair, Michael Carrel. “His commitment to mentorship and community involvement, combined with his extensive business acumen, will further support our mission to create greater equity and access to mentorship experiences for all young people.”

Williams’ leadership has been recognized nationally, including being named by Forbes as one of “The World’s Most Influential CMOs” in 2017 and 2018, and by Savoy Magazine as one of the most influential Black corporate directors in 2021.

“I see firsthand the profound impact mentorship can have on lives – including my own. It’s an honor to join the BBBSA board and help more young people reach their full potential,” said President and CEO of TruStage, Terrance Williams. “Every young person deserves the chance to thrive and a mentor who encourages and believes in them. I’m excited to work with BBBSA to expand access to these transformative, inspiring relationships.”

Beyond his corporate leadership, Williams is deeply committed to philanthropic efforts and community betterment, including serving on the dean of University of South Carolina’s business school’s advisory council and the U.S. Chamber board of directors. He has also served on multiple non-profit boards, including Big Brothers Big Sisters at the local level, and is actively involved as a co-chair of the BBBSA National Alumni and Champions Council, a group of dedicated leaders empowered to drive engagement and fundraising efforts for other BBBS alumni and champions across the country.

“Terrance’s passion for mentorship and his proven ability to drive meaningful change make him an exceptional addition to our board,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “His experience in innovation and strategic growth will be instrumental as we continue to expand our reach and impact in communities across the nation.”

###

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of America 

About TruStage

TruStage™ is a financially strong insurance and financial services provider, built on the philosophy of people helping people, meeting the needs of middle-market consumers and the businesses that serve them since day one. We believe a brighter financial future should be accessible to everyone, and our products and solutions help people confidently make financial decisions that work for them at every stage of life. With a culture rooted and focused on creating a more equitable society and financial system, we are deeply committed to giving back to our communities and improving the lives of those we serve today, and tomorrow. For more information, visit www.trustage.com.

TAMPA, Fla., May 20, 2025 – Today, TIME named Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), to the inaugural 2025 TIME100 Philanthropy, a list recognizing singular figures who are shaping the future of giving. The full list will appear in the June 9, 2025, issue of TIME, available on newsstands on Friday, May 30, and now at time.com/time100-philanthropy.

This list celebrates those who are pioneering new approaches to giving—leveraging innovation, influence, and resources to uplift communities and create lasting change. Stevens was recognized for his nearly 30-year career to empower young people to change society, including his most recent work as President and CEO at Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Since joining BBBSA in 2020, the organization has been recognized as a Top 10 Most Trusted Nonprofit by Morning Consult, more than doubled its annual revenue, and expanded its reach to serve more communities including a return of services to New Orleans.

As the largest youth mentoring organization in the United States, caring adult mentors, affectionately called Bigs, and youth ages 5-25, called Littles, are matched to foster meaningful relationships that empower youth to overcome adversity and reach their full potential. Through a combination of national partnerships, both corporate and foundations, investments in improved technology, and targeted outreach efforts to the 20 million alumni, Stevens has led transformational change for the organization including reducing the waitlist by a third, reversing 10 years of declining membership, and doubling fundraising revenue.

“I am honored to be included in the inaugural TIME100 Philanthropy, and to be recognized among leaders who are reimagining the future of giving, especially during a critical time for our nation’s youth,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our team, partners, and the countless individuals who work tirelessly to empower young people through mentorship and drive outcomes for youth, families, and communities. Together, we are shaping a future where youth have access to the opportunities, support and empowerment they need to thrive today, and make a lasting impact for tomorrow.”

Looking ahead, Stevens and BBBSA remain dedicated to transforming mentorship in America, forging new partnerships, and driving innovative solutions that will continue to shape the future of philanthropy and the nation’s youth for years to come.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of America

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.

DENVER (April 22, 2025) — ALLCITY Network, a digital media company reimagining local sports coverage, is proud to announce a three-year partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the leading youth mentoring organization in the United States. The partnership officially launches alongside ALLCITY’s NFL Draft Week coverage and will connect ALLCITY’s audiences and creators with impactful mentorship initiatives in communities across the country.

The collaboration reflects a shared belief in the power of sports and storytelling to inspire, connect, and uplift. As ALLCITY deepens its community ties in cities nationwide, this partnership ensures that purpose remains at the center of its growth.

“At our core, ALLCITY is about building community around a shared love of sports. But we know we can do more to use our platform not only to entertain, but also to make a lasting impact in our communities,” said Jon Riskin, VP of Revenue at ALLCITY Network. “Partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America allows us to deepen our local ties while aligning with a mission that resonates with our team, our creators, and our fans.”

“Our partnership with ALLCITY Network creates a powerful bridge between sports media and youth mentorship,” said BBBSA Chief Marketing Officer, Adam Vasallo. “By connecting our mentoring programs with ALLCITY’s passionate sports communities, we’ll reach more potential mentors and supporters in cities across the country. Together, the unifying power of sports will create more opportunities for young people when they need it most.”

Key Aspects of the Partnership

National Scope, Local Activation: BBBSA’s nationwide footprint, with local agencies across 5,000 communities, is a perfect match with ALLCITY’s local-first sports approach, allowing each ALLCITY market to tailor efforts for maximum community impact.

Multi-faceted partnership: ALLCITY will be supporting BBBSA through fundraising, awareness campaigns, employee participation, and unique activations across the country.

NFL Focus: BBBSA and ALLCITY will be emphasizing executions around NFL events and coverage, enhancing BBBSA’s existing partnership with the league and ALLCITY’s leading NFL shows.

What’s Ahead

The partnership will debut during NFL Draft Week with custom content integrations across ALLCITY’s city networks: CHGO (Chicago), DLLS (Dallas), DNVR (Denver), PHLY (Philadelphia), and PHNX (Phoenix). The collaboration will continue year-round with a full calendar of activations including content and merchandise collaborations, fundraising drives, and community events.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of America

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: bbbs.org.

About ALLCITY Network

ALLCITY Network is reimagining local sports coverage, delivering daily, team-specific shows available across streaming video, podcast, social, and other digital platforms. Launched in 2019 in Denver, ALLCITY has since expanded to Phoenix, Chicago, Philadelphia, and Dallas, with a portfolio of 35+ daily and weekly shows across the country. Collectively, ALLCITY’s channels provide over 7,500 hours of live sports content annually, complemented by local sports news, analysis, and community-driven programming. Beyond media products, ALLCITY connects with fans through Diehard Memberships, original custom apparel lines and community-driven events, such as tailgates and watch parties. For more information about ALLCITY Network, visit www.allcitynetwork.com

MEDIA CONTACT 

ALLCITY Network
press@allcitynetwork.com

Collaboration Expands Access and Mentorship, Strengthens Talent Pipeline, and Develops Future Industry Leaders

New York, NY – March 18, 2025 – The Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA) and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) have joined forces to inspire and develop the next generation of out of home (OOH) advertising leaders through an industry-wide mentorship and talent pipeline initiative. This strategic alliance will provide emerging professionals with career-building opportunities while offering OAAA members a meaningful way to give back, ensuring a strong and diverse talent pipeline for the industry’s future.

“As the OOH industry continues to grow, it’s critical to invest in the next generation of leaders,” said Jeff Jan, EVP, Strategy & Growth, OAAA. “This partnership strengthens our talent pipeline by breaking down industry barriers and creating meaningful professional development opportunities. Together, we are fostering a diverse and skilled workforce that will ensure a vibrant future for OOH advertising.”

Key aspects of the partnership include:

“Big for a Day” Mentorship Market Ride: To pilot the partnership, earlier this month select BBBSA Scholars, Future Leaders, and OAAA members explored the OOH industry firsthand through a guided immersive experience across New York City, gaining perspectives from media owners, agencies, and brands. The day served as a symbol of the laddered mentorship, with OAAA members serving as mentors to the Future Leaders, and Future Leaders serving as mentors to BBBSA Scholars.
Future Leaders Program: Now in its second year, this program empowers rising OOH professionals with opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. Selected participants will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2025 OOH Media Conference, where they’ll gain industry insights, build connections, and advance their careers. BBBSA representatives will take part in dedicated Future Leaders conference activities, including exclusive mentoring sessions.
BBBSA’s 120th Anniversary: OAAA members will celebrate BBBSA’s legacy with an in-kind OOH media campaign, spotlighting its global impact and milestone anniversary.
Talent Pipeline Development: Cultivate a diverse and skilled workforce, equipping skilled and emerging professionals with the knowledge, connections, and opportunities needed to thrive in the evolving OOH industry.

“We’re proud to partner with OAAA to help advance their efforts to introduce the next generation workforce to the out of home advertising industry,” said Adam Vasallo, Chief Marketing Officer, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “Our shared interest in empowering young people to be successful in school, their careers and in life, will create the meaningful opportunities and access to leaders across the industry that they need to thrive.”

This initiative is part of OOH UNITED, OAAA’s industry-wide effort to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion. By expanding access to mentorship and career opportunities, the program helps ensure the OOH industry better reflects the diverse communities it reaches. Participants will play an active role in OOH UNITED’s initiatives throughout the year, furthering efforts to create a more inclusive and representative industry.

“This partnership marks a significant step in demonstrating our industry’s commitment to fostering a diverse talent pipeline, increasing exposure to our industry, and improving the support systems for emerging OOH professionals. It will not only enhance the Future Leaders program by adding an essential component of laddered mentorship to the existing framework but will also cultivate a new generation of diverse and talented professionals that will shape the future of our industry,” said OOH UNITED co-chairs Marc Fenty, SVP Director of OOH of Horizon Media, and Candice Simons, President & CEO of Brooklyn Outdoor, in a joint statement.

Additionally, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America will take the stage at OAAA’s 2025 OOH Media Conference in Boston from May 5-7, 2025, to share the transformative power of mentorship and how OOH advertising drives awareness and social impact.

About OAAA

The Out of Home Advertising Association of America (OAAA) is the national trade association for the entire out of home (OOH) advertising industry. OAAA represents over 850 members, including leading media companies, advertisers, agencies, ad-tech providers, and suppliers. OOH media includes billboards, street furniture, transit, place-based media, and digital formats (DOOH) across every sector of the channel. OAAA is the unifying voice for the industry, the authoritative thought leader, and the passionate advocate for advancing OOH advertising in the United States. The legislative unit of OAAA advocates for the responsible growth of OOH with federal, state, and local governments. OAAA-member media companies donate over $500 million annually in public service advertising. Founded in 1891, OAAA is headquartered in Washington, DC, with offices in New York City. For more information, visit https://oaaa.org.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA)

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: bbbs.org.

Contact

Cassady Nordeen

Cassady@purposenorthamerica.com