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First-of-its-kind study reveals mentorship as a cost-effective solution to drive socioeconomic mobility

Rooted in 30 years of data, the study provides evidence of greater enrollment in higher education, increased salaries, reduced dependency on social services, and improved behavioral outcomes for mentored youth

TAMPA, Fla. (January 27, 2025) – Today, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) – the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States – released a groundbreaking study on the transformative power of mentorship in shaping young people’s educational, economic, and social trajectories. Conducted by leading researchers from Harvard University and the U.S. Department of Treasury, this first-of-its-kind study reveals how Big Brothers Big Sisters can serve as a scalable solution to reduce socioeconomic disparities over time. 

This research, rooted in three decades of data, provides compelling evidence that mentorship delivers long-lasting benefits: 

  • Increased Earnings: Participants experienced a 15% boost in earnings between the ages of 20 and 25, reflecting enhanced economic mobility
    • The income of mentored youth as adults was more closely aligned with the income of their mentor than their family, helping to reduce the socioeconomic gap by two-thirds 
  • Higher College Attendance: Mentored youth are 20% more likely to attend college compared to non-mentored peers 
  • Improved Behavior: Within 18 months, mentored youth reported lower absenteeism and fewer school suspensions 
  • Healthier Social Outcomes: Mentored youth exhibit improved behaviors and stronger social bonds, leading to a reduced dependency on social services and long-term societal improvements 

 “This landmark study validates what we’ve witnessed for over a century – mentorship is a powerful catalyst for breaking cycles of poverty and creating lasting socioeconomic change. The data clearly shows that connecting young people with caring mentors doesn’t just transform individual lives; it’s one of the most cost-effective investments we can make in our country’s future,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “Investing in mentorship programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters contributes to a more skilled and competitive workforce and adds value to local economies. This research reinforces our commitment to expanding access to quality mentoring relationships that can help every young person reach their full potential.” 

While previous studies suggest youth must fully change their social environment to increase economic opportunity, this study is the first to identify community mentorship as a low-cost solution that offers the same results. With BBBS programming costs at approximately $2,000 to $3,000 per year per youth, the increased lifetime earnings of mentored youth and related tax revenue would allow the government to recoup costs within just seven years, making it one of the most cost-effective youth interventions. 

“Investing in mentorship is investing in our future,” said Ginneh Baugh, Chief Impact Officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “Unlike traditional education-based interventions, mentorship tackles the social and behavioral barriers that often prevent disadvantaged youth from reaching their full potential.” 

The research builds upon a landmark 1991 randomized control trial (RCT) conducted by Public/Private Ventures and Mathematica Policy Research, extending the analysis into the 2020s by linking administrative data from BBBS to U.S. tax records. This robust approach provides unprecedented insight into the lifelong impacts of mentorship on education, employment, and social identity. 

The study focuses on matched youth between the ages of 10 and 14 who applied to a BBBS community-based mentoring program in the early 1990s. Participants came from diverse backgrounds, with 60% being male and more than half identifying as racial minorities. Most participants lived in single-parent households or with guardians.  

To learn more, visit www.bbbs.org. 

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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. 

The Challenge aims to Rally the Advertising and Media Industry to Change the Odds for the Next Generation

Tampa, FL – January 15, 2025 – Ryan Detert, CEO of Influential, the world’s largest influencer marketing company, is making a powerful impact on the future of young people across the nation. Following the incredible support of his late mentor, Clayton Roth, who served as his “Big Brother” for 30 years, Detert is giving back in a big way with a $1 million donation, in honor of Clayton, to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. The gift marks the launch of the “Changemakers Challenge,” a bold initiative aimed at raising $5 million for the organization and connecting young people with life-changing mentorship opportunities.

The Changemakers Challenge, co-led by Detert and Michael Kassan, CEO of 3C Ventures, is calling upon industry leaders, agencies, and professionals across the media, marketing, and advertising sectors to join forces and amplify the reach of youth mentorship. The initiative kicks off on Giving Tuesday, December 3, with a goal of raising an additional $4 million, which will fund 50,000 life-changing mentor-mentee matches nationwide.

“As someone who was deeply impacted by mentorship growing up, I know firsthand how life-changing the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters can be,” said Detert. “I was lucky enough to have a mentor who helped guide me through some of my most challenging years. His belief in me gave me the confidence to chase my dreams and reach goals I never thought possible. The guidance I received shaped the person I am today, and I want to give back to make sure more young people have the same opportunity.”

Detert’s personal experience with mentorship fuels his passion for ensuring that all children have access to the support, encouragement, and guidance that can help them succeed. Through this generous donation, he hopes to ignite a ripple effect, encouraging others to step up and invest in the next generation of leaders.

“As a fellow board member and friend, Ryan is an inspiration, and his testimony moved me just like many of the youth impacted by Big Brothers Big Sisters,” said Kassan. “By teaming up with Ryan, we want to harness the power of the creative community to change the odds for young people, just as Clayton did for Ryan. I’m confident we can create an even bigger impact and strengthen the creative talent pipeline for the next generation.”

In addition to monetary donations, the Changemakers Challenge also aims to secure $100 million in in-kind media, ensuring that the stories and importance of mentorship reach broader audiences across platforms. These efforts will help increase visibility, relevance, and long-term support for Big Brothers Big Sisters, ultimately driving engagement from corporate partners, consumers, and volunteers.

The Changemakers Challenge is part of Brothers Big Sisters’ year-long celebration of the organization’s 120th anniversary and long-standing history in changing lives by changing the odds for millions of youth. To kick off the challenge, Detert and Kassan will host a special “Changemaker Bruncheon” during Super Bowl week at NFL House, inviting companies and individuals to learn more about the mission, make their pledge, and announce commitments to becoming a Changemaker. The challenge will culminate in NYC at BBBSA’s Big Benefit event being held in September 2025, an opportunity to showcase the industry’s transformational support for youth mentorship.

“Ryan’s extraordinary gift signifies how mentorship is a powerful tool in breaking down barriers and creating pathways for success, particularly in industries like media, marketing, and advertising. By empowering young people with the guidance of caring mentors, we’re shaping the future talent pipeline and ensuring that these young individuals can become the leaders of tomorrow,” said Artis Stevens, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “We are incredibly grateful for Ryan and Michael’s leadership with the Changemaker Challenge. Their unwavering support is not only a testament to their commitment to changing the odds for young people, but also to the power of mentorship in transforming lives.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the country. The organization’s mentorship model has proven to help young people build confidence, improve academic performance, and achieve their personal and professional goals.

For more information on how to participate in the Changemakers Challenge and donate, visit www.bbbsa.org.

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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.

bbbs and clear channel outdoor logos side by side

National Volunteer Outreach Campaign Features Big Brothers Big Sisters of America’s Newest Cohort of ‘Game Changers,’ a Powerful Collective of Women Leaders Creating Access and Opportunity for Youth through Mentorship

January 14, 2025 

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 activation of a national digital out of home (DOOH) media campaign timed with National Mentoring Month.

For the month of January, the digital billboard campaign will feature leaders from BBBSA’s newest cohort of women ‘Game Changers,’ a powerful collective of influential changemakers in sports, business, entertainment and beyond, united to create access and opportunity for youth, particularly girls and young women.

According to recent CDC data, 3 in 5 teen girls in the U.S. are grappling with significant mental health challenges. National data from the 2023 Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX) Survey also shows that girls’ confidence levels are declining throughout adolescence compared to boys.

Fueled by the shared belief, “if you can see it, you can be it”, the Game Changers are responding to the societal need for positive mentorship by lending their voices and support to shift the mentorship narrative and encourage more volunteers to get involved as mentors. Research indicates that positive mentoring relationships significantly enhance self-esteem and confidence among girls, providing critical support as they navigate the pressures of adolescence.

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

  • Carey Arensberg, Educator, Trauma and Resilience Specialist, Social Media Influencer, Alumni Big
  • Croix Bethune, NWSL Rookie of the Year, Washington Spirit
  • Eden Bridgeman, Owner and CEO EBONY & Jet
  • Kardea Brown, Emmy Nominated Food Network Host & Author
  • Gizelle George-Joseph, COO, Global Investment Research, Goldman Sachs
  • Tammy Henault, Chief Marketing Officer, NBA 
  • Jeannie Mai, Emmy Award-Winning TV Host and Producer
  • Sadé Muhammad, Chief Marketing & Impact Officer, TIME, Alumni Big
  • Paula Price, Corporate Board Director, Former Macy’s EVP & CFO
  • Marissa Solis, Senior VP, Global Brand, NFL and Alumni Little
  • Sehr Thadhani, Chief Digital Officer, NASDAQ
  • Lexi Underwood, Actress, Producer, Author, Changemaker
  • Sybil Wilkes, Media Maven, Former Co-Host of the Tom Joyner Morning Show
  • Michelle Wong, Chief Marketing Officer
  • Shelley Zalis, CEO, Female Quotient

The inaugural group of ‘Game Changers,’ launched in 2023, convened prominent Black men to address the urgent representational gap in mentorship by encouraging more Black men to get involved as mentors and supporters.

“We are proud to continue building our partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Their mission to ignite the power and promise of youth through mentorship is admired throughout the country and has directly influenced the way Clear Channel Outdoor has approached its own mentoring programs,” said Dan Levi, EVP & CMO, Clear Channel Outdoor. “Our work with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America over the past few years has enabled us to harness the power of out-of-home to drive positive change within our communities. We have truly built a partnership that is focused on catalyzing positive change for our youth and making a greater impact together.”

“Big Brothers Big Sisters of America’s partnership with Clear Channel Outdoor demonstrates the incredible societal impact that community and corporate collaboration can build together,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “The Game Changers billboard series harnesses the power of representation and visibility to spark national dialogue about the life-changing role mentorship plays in shaping brighter futures for our youth. By coming together, we’re not only amplifying the voices of these remarkable leaders but also inspiring heroes in communities across the country to become mentors and make lasting change on the next generation.”

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.

Follow & Like: LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook

Contact: Jason D. King, SVP, Corporate Communications & Marketing, Clear Channel Outdoor

jasondking@clearchannel.com, 212.812.0064

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.

The partnership emphasizes how mentorship and outdoor equity can unlock curiosity, aspiration, and empowerment for young individuals

ROCKFORD, Mich. – Dec. 2, 2024 – Merrell®, the world’s leading hike and outdoor footwear brand, announced it has collaborated on an exclusive design of the brand’s modern and innovative Moab Speed 2 in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA). The partnership supports the crucial need for mentorship and further promotes their shared mission to build confidence, ignite passion for nature, and inspire the journey to our full potential.

The limited-edition hiker was designed and inspired by a Merrell team member who is a volunteer “Big” – or mentor – with Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) – infusing the color and spirit of the organization into the shoe. The duo’s mindful design resulted in a playful green and black colorway, along with the program’s namesake across the heel.

“In our fourth year of partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, we aimed to create a truly unique product ‘Bigs’ and ‘Littles’ can wear together as they spend time outside together,” said Merrell Chief Marketing Officer Pallav Tamaskar. “Mentorship is crucial for empowering and building the confidence of young people, and our collaboration showcases its profound influence.”

Access and equity in the outdoors play a crucial role in building the foundations of a healthier and happier lifestyle. Ninety percent of “Littles” participating in the BBBS program have reported feeling healthier and happier when surrounded by nature, and 79% reported a boost in self-confidence.

“The ‘It Takes Little to Be Big’ campaign redefines what it means to be a mentor and create lasting impact by being present and taking part in each other’s lives, such as experiencing every day outdoor experiences together,” said BBBSA Chief Marketing Officer Adam Vasallo. “This collaboration reinforces the power that mentorship has to unify and inspire us to make a difference in the lives of young people.”

Launching Dec. 2, the unisex Moab Speed 2 will retail for $140 and will be available to purchase online at Merrell.com. The Moab Speed 2 is the latest innovation in hiking from Merrell – inspired by insights from athletic hikers around the world. It is designed to provide exceptional traction for outdoor multi-sport activities and has long-lasting, lightweight comfort.

In 2023, Merrell released a public service announcement in partnership with BBBSA to address the critical need for mentorship and inspire volunteer sign-ups nationwide. The biggest hurdles of potential mentors are the perceived time and expertise required – inspiring the “It Takes Little to Be Big” campaign and Merrell’s public service announcement. Merrell has also created initiatives such as the Kids Shoe Design Contests and in-kind engagements for Littles.

The goal of BBBSA and Merrell’s partnership is to join forces to harness the power of being outside and providing access to more youth. Merrell will donate $10 for each pair of shoes sold to further support Big Brothers Big Sisters.

For more information on Merrell, please visit Merrell.com. For more information on Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, visit BBBS.org or to become a volunteer today.

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ABOUT MERRELL: 

Merrell exists to share the simple power of being outside and is committed to building an inclusive and sustainable environment for future generations to enjoy. As the global leader in outdoor active footwear with the Moab hiking boot and Jungle Moc, Merrell is focused on merging performance, styling, and comfort to empower all people to confidently explore the outdoors. The brand was recently named Footwear News’ 2022 Brand of the Year for promoting a more diverse vision of the outdoors. Visit Merrell.com or follow us on social @Merrell. Merrell is a division of Wolverine World Wide, Inc. (NYSE: WWW), one of the world’s leading marketers and licensors of branded casual, active lifestyle, work, outdoor sport, athletic, children’s and uniform footwear and apparel. 

ABOUT BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF AMERICA: 

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 more than 230 local affiliated agencies serving over 5,000 communities across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. For more information, visit: www.bbbs.org.

In a partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), NBCUniversal aims to foster life-changing relationships for young people. In honor of Wicked’s themes of mentorship and personal growth, BBBSA launched the Wicked Kindness Challenge on November 13, World Kindness Day, inviting “Littles” to complete a digital kindness curriculum inspired by Wicked. After completing the challenge, they were encouraged to share their experiences on social media, with exciting Wicked prizes awaiting some lucky participants.

Adding an unforgettable experience, a Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles “Little” named Jamie attended the Wicked press junket on November 8. NBC News National Correspondent Jacob Soboroff mentored Jamie, an aspiring journalist, as her “Big For a Day,” taking her along to see what the making of the movie looked like behind the scenes. Jamie then took the spotlight, interviewing Wicked cast members Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Jonathan Bailey, and director Jon M. Chu. Jamie’s remarkable opportunity reflects NBCUniversal’s commitment to mentorship, as she learns directly from professionals in her dream field.

Soboroff has a long history with BBBS – his father is in their Hall Of Fame after serving as a Big for 50+ years, and Jacob ran the New York City Marathon on November 3 in support of the organization.

“We’re excited to partner with Universal Pictures and the cast of Wicked to create unique career exposure opportunities for our young people and amplify the power of kindness, which is central to our mission at Big Brothers Big Sisters. The story of Wicked beautifully illustrates the transformative power of compassion, friendship, and community—all values at the heart of our mission. Through our Wicked Kindness Challenge, we hope to empower young people across the country to find little ways to demonstrate kindness as a daily practice, strengthening their own lives and the lives of those around them.”

— Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America

Read full NBCUniversal blog post.

In partnership with NBCUniversal and inspired by the Wicked film, the Wicked Kindness Challenge explores what kindness really means— starting with yourself and extending to your friends, community, and society.

In this interactive three-lesson challenge, discover how small acts of kindness can spread joy and make a difference. Each day brings fun storylines, music, and visuals to guide you through inspiring lessons and challenges. Complete all three, and you’ll have a chance to win Wicked prizes and become a Wicked Kindness Champion!

Macy’s ongoing partnership and give back campaign with Big Brothers Big Sisters provides mentorship experiences to create paths for future success for young people

NEW YORK, NY – October 29, 2024 – This holiday season, Macy’s furthers its commitment to youth empowerment through its ongoing 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 host a special in-store round up and online donation give back campaign to benefit BBBS’ mission of empowering young people through the power of mentorship to build paths for future success. Additionally, Macy’s customers will have the opportunity to shop an exclusive collection of holiday-themed products styled with original drawings by mentees in the BBBS program (Littles). Through December 31, 2024, 50% of the purchase price of the BBBS-designed teddy bear and mug will benefit the organization to help create life-changing mentorship experiences for young people.

“Since 2022, Macy’s has helped raise nearly $10 million to support BBBS’ mission to empower youth and realize their full potential by providing impactful programming and life-changing mentorship opportunities,” said Bobby Amirshahi, Macy’s, Inc. SVP and head of corporate communications and public affairs. “Our social purpose platform, Mission Every One, comes to life with leading nonprofit organization partnerships, like BBBS, to provide life-changing mentorship opportunities for young people to confidently pursue their interests and passions and grow into the next generation of leaders. As we celebrate our third year of partnership with BBBS, our colleagues and customers remain committed to empowering and uplifting the next generation by rallying behind our campaign.”

 “Our Big Brothers Big Sisters network is energized and excited to partner with Macy’s once again during the holiday season,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “The meaningful experiences of positive mentorship that we’ve been able to offer through this partnership – and to all those who benefit from it – creates transformational impact for young people. We look forward to our continued collaboration to empower youth through mentorship across the country.”

To bring the partnership to life, Macy’s stores nationwide will host localized events for Bigs (mentors) and Littles (mentees). Macy’s Little Holiday events will create opportunities for youth empowerment by helping BBBS local agencies kick-off the holiday season in style with a reception and shopping spree, complete with gift cards for Littles and Bigs to pick out gifts on their list. Nearly $120,000 in gift cards will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters for Bigs & Littles during these events. Additionally this year, the character Macy’s Gift Guide and her Mentee, will help Macy’s customers create magical moments throughout the season and find the perfect gift for friends and family.

This November, BBBS with select Bigs and Littles, will make a return appearance in the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The Macy’s Winter Wonderland in Central Park float will host 20 Bigs and Littles – who were selected from a nationwide talent search – along with Macy’s colleagues as they take center stage. The float, featuring a holiday classic, will travel through New York City on Thanksgiving morning to spread joy and cheer to live spectators and viewers nationwide during the event’s 98th edition.

Macy’s partnership with BBBS will also extend into its iconic Herald Square flagship and select location’s windows nationwide this holiday season. Bigs and Littles from across the country have been invited to decorate paper ornaments that will decorate “Give Love. Give Back.” windows beginning November 21. The festive displays will also showcase the Little designed product collection and can be enjoyed at select Macy’s locations through the new year.

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. 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 more than 230 local affiliated agencies serving over 5,000 communities across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. For more information, visit: www.bbbs.org.

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

 BBBS Communications
Jennifer Banks
media@bbbs.org

New cohort of influential voices to amplify power of mentorship across industries and create opportunities for girls and young women

TAMPA, FL, – October 11, 2024 – In celebration of International Day of the Girl, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States, proudly announces its newest cohort of Game Changers. The powerful collective of women leaders across sports, entertainment, business and more, will create access and opportunity for girls and young women through the power of mentorship, at a time when they face unprecedented challenges.  

According to recent CDC data, 3 in 5 teen girls in the U.S. are grappling with significant mental health challenges. National data from the 2023 Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX) Survey also shows that girls’ confidence levels are declining throughout adolescence compared to boys. By the time girls get to high school, 46% don’t believe they are smart enough for their dream career. The impact of these challenges can have lasting implications for their career readiness and overall social and academic success. 

Research indicates that positive mentoring relationships significantly enhance self-esteem and confidence among girls, providing critical support as they navigate the pressures of adolescence.  

According to the Big Brothers Big Sisters Youth Impact Survey: 

  • 90% of girls with a mentor feel less isolated and more connected in school and with peers. 
  • Girls in the BBBS program experience decreased depressive symptoms and 81% of BBBS girls maintain or improve their mental health outcomes during the program. 

Fueled by the shared belief, “if you can see it, you can be it”, the Game Changers will respond to the societal need for positive mentorship by lending their voices and support to shift the mentorship narrative and encourage more volunteers, particularly women, to get involved. They will help drive the momentum needed to build brighter futures for girls and young women across the country, fostering a sense of connection, belonging and purpose. 

The newest cohort of Game Changers includes: 

  • La La Anthony, Actress, Producer, Entrepreneur 
  • Carey Arensberg, Educator, Trauma and Resilience Specialist, Social Media Influencer, Alumni Big 
  • Michelle Bell, SVP, Head of Brand Partnerships, MACRO 
  • Croix Bethune, Midfielder, Washington Spirit 
  • Kardea Brown – Emmy Nominated Food Network Host and Author, Host of “Delicious Miss Brown,” Former BBBS Staff 
  • Gizelle George-Joseph, COO, Global Investment Research, Goldman Sachs 
  • Tammy Henault, Chief Marketing Officer, NBA 
  • Gayle King, Co-Host, CBS Mornings, Editor at Large “Oprah Daily”  
  • Jeannie Mai, Emmy Award-Winning TV Host and Producer 
  • Sadé Muhammad, Chief Marketing Officer, TIME 
  • Meredith O’Sullivan, Co-Founder/Co-CEO, The Lede Company 
  • Paula Price, Former Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Macy’s Inc. 
  • Eden Bridgeman Sklenar, Owner and CEO, EBONY & Jet 
  • Marissa Solis, Senior VP, Global Brand, NFL, and Alumni Big & Little 
  • Sehr Thadhani, Chief Digital Officer, NASDAQ 
  • Lexi Underwood, Actress, Producer, Author, Changemaker 
  • Gabrielle Union, Actress, Producer, Author, Advocate 
  • Sybil Wilkes, Media Maven, Former Co-Host of the Tom Joyner Morning Show 
  • Michelle Wong, Chief Marketing Officer 
  • Shelley Zalis, CEO, Female Quotient 

“We are excited to expand our Game Changers program to this newest cohort, representing the strength, wisdom, and determination of women who are influential leaders in their respective fields. Each Game Changers’ commitment to mentorship goes beyond professional success; it’s about showing young people that they can overcome barriers, achieve greatness, and lead with confidence.” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO, BBBSA. “We believe that by surrounding young people with powerful role models, we are shaping the next generation of leaders who will inspire change and create a more equitable future.” 

BBBSA’s Game Changers initiative provides a platform for influential voices of diverse backgrounds to share their experiences, build connections, and amplify the power of mentorship to further impact young people and their communities. The inaugural group of Game Changers, launched in 2023, convened prominent Black men to address the urgent representational gap in mentorship by encouraging more Black men to get involved as mentors and supporters. To learn more, please visit www.bbbs.org/game-changers.  

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.

This month marked a significant advocacy milestone for Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS). Congress officially recognized BBBS’ 120th Anniversary and significant contributions to bringing mentorship to youth nationwide through a Congressional Resolution. Congressional Resolutions are not law, but an effective way for Congress to collectively express their support for a specific event, organization, or person.  

Led by Senators Young (R-IN) and Hassan (D-NH), and Representatives Amodei (R-NV) and Scanlon (D-PA), the Senate and House introduced the BBBS 120th Anniversary Resolution, and together, they received large bipartisan support with 51 co-sponsors signing on.  

On September 25th, the Senate unanimously passed the resolution just before Congress recessed for the election. This is a historic moment, as it’s the first time a Congressional act has been passed since BBBSA was incorporated over 60 years ago. Due to House rules changing on resolutions, the House resolution will be introduced but will not move forward to passage.  

The BBBS 120th Anniversary Resolution: 

  • Commemorates the organization’s milestone anniversary 
  • Makes the case for the transformative power of mentorship 
  • Highlights the positive impact of BBBS’ programs on the youth we’ve served 
  • Thanks the dedicated network of volunteers, donors, and partners who have supported BBBS’ mission.  

Read the resolution  

The BBBS 120th Congressional Resolution represents a tremendous accomplishment, paving the way for bigger advocacy efforts that will influence federal policies for the youth we serve.  

Big Brothers Big Sisters’ (BBBS) renewed commitment to the New Orleans community was featured during the 3rd hour of the TODAY Show!

MSNBC Correspondent, Trymaine Lee, shares his experience as an Alumni “Big” in New Orleans 18-years ago, while reuniting with his Little at one of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater New Orleans pilot programs in the Orleans parish.

Watch the clip for more about BBBS’ commitment to a new generation of “Bigs” and “Littles” in New Orleans and the impact that mentorship has on young people and those who support them.

Watch the story here!