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Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation logo

TAMPA, Fla., July 16, 2024 – 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. Through a national partnership between BBBS and the Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation, Ulta Beauty’s customers and 53,000 associates raised more than $2.4 million to support BBBS’ wellness programs, training and resources for young people across the country.

From May 19 through June 15, 2024, Ulta Beauty’s customers and associates donated at checkout across Ulta Beauty’s nearly 1,400 stores and on Ulta.com, as well as through local community events to expand the reach of BBBS’ initiatives. The program benefited more than 200 Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies, reaching nearly 5,000 communities.

“We are incredibly proud to have partnered with Ulta Beauty to raise funds that directly support the wellness and well-being of young people. As the challenges facing America’s youth grow in our rapidly changing society, mentorship has proven to be a powerful tool in helping to build resilience and a sense of belonging for young people,” said Big Brothers Big Sisters of America President and CEO, Artis Stevens. “Through a shared passion for uplifting young people, we look forward to continuing to work with Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation to ensure we provide resources and opportunities that ignite the power and promise of youth nationwide.”

 “Ulta Beauty is committed to unleashing possibilities in our communities, leaving a positive impact in the world around us,” said Dave Kimbell, chief executive officer of Ulta Beauty and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago board member. “Our partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters is a true testament to what we can accomplish when we use beauty as a force for good, and I’m so proud of how our guests, associates, and partners came together to champion mental health and wellbeing programming and inspire joy in so many.”

As a national well-being partner and as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to championing joy, 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 Big Brothers Big Sisters hosted a number of activities including distribution of wellness kits for youth facing stress, anxiety and other challenges and educational clinics where Littles were introduced to topics like the importance of good personal care. Many of the BBBS agencies also engaged directly with Ulta Beauty associates to discuss the BBBS mission and its initiatives, deepening our connections in each community.

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:

BBBS Communications

Jennifer Banks

Jennifer.Banks@bbbsa.org

BBBSA CEO and President posing with the 2024 Bigs and Littles of the Year.

2024 Honorees Recognized at the Bigger Together Celebration in Dallas, Texas

TAMPA, Fla., June 18, 2024 — Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States, announced the Bigs and Littles of the Year at the 2024 Bigger Together celebration, part of the organization’s four-day national conference in Dallas. Two volunteer mentors (“Bigs”) and two youth (“Littles”) were selected to represent the over 400,000 Bigs, Littles, and families participating annually— Christopher and Shane from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas City; and Donna and Melvina from Big Brothers Big Sisters Services Inc.

“Our Bigs and Littles of the Year are a testament to the profound impact of mentorship and the power of human connection,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO, BBBSA. “We are thrilled to honor Chris and Shane, and Donna and Melvina as this year’s Bigs and Littles of the Year, as each match exemplifies the rich relationships created by pairing young people with positive adult role models. These matches embody the transformative power of the life-long bonds that have been the cornerstone of our mission for over 120 years through the Big Brothers Big Sisters network nationwide.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America celebrates two incredible matches each year, nominated by their local agencies, to serve as the national representatives of Big Brothers Big Sisters. These matches demonstrate the influence that a mentoring relationship has on empowering Littles to pursue their goals in a ‘big’ way while creating a long-lasting impact on both the young person and the Big.

Big Christopher and Little Shane, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas City

“When I was nine, my dad passed away from brain cancer. That was really tough for me, and I was really hurting. I got matched with Chris a few years later.”

When Shane lost his father, his mother knew he needed a male role model in his life. Through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas City, he was matched with Chris. Both having lost a parent at a young age, the pair forged a deep connection beyond mentorship—they became family.

Over the past five years, Chris has been a steadfast presence in Shane’s life, teaching him life skills like tying a tie, driving a car, and providing invaluable guidance. With one year left in high school, Shane is eager to have Chris’ support as he graduates, applies for college, and beyond.

“I made a commitment a long time ago, that I would always be there for Shane for the rest of my breathing life, or as long as Shane would have me.”

Big Donna and Little Melvina, Big Brothers Big Sisters Services Inc.

“Until now I hadn’t disclosed why I became a Big. I did lose my daughter, and my twin sister passed away three years prior to that. As a result, I needed to help heal this hole in my life and in my heart, and what better way to do that than to find another young person I could pour into.”

Donna turned to Big Brothers Big Sisters in Winston- Salem, North Carolina, who matched her with Melvina. Although Donna initially struggled to get Melvina to open up, she was patient and persistent, ultimately nurturing a lifelong bond stronger than either of them could’ve hoped for.

“She has been there with me every step of the way. I questioned myself for a while and asked, ‘why me?” and I now believe that I deserve this. I deserve Donna and everything that she came with. I love how she loves, and her presence– her just being here, means a lot to me,” says Melvina.

Melvina recently graduated from high school and has enlisted in the military. She has been accepted into every college she’s applied to and is excited about her future. As the youngest of six, Melvina was empowered to change her odds with Donna’s love, support, and encouragement along the way.

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.

Newest class of inductees to the BBBSA Alumni Hall of Fame.

Notable Alumni Bigs and Littles Honored for Championing the Power of Mentorship and Impacting their Communities and Networks

TAMPA, Fla., June 13, 2024 — Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States, announced its newest class of inductees to the BBBSA Alumni Hall of Fame. The BBBSA Alumni Hall of Fame honors former mentors (“Bigs”) and mentees (“Littles”), who embody the transformative power of human connection and continue to champion the lifelong impact of mentorship.

The ceremony was held during BBBSA’s annual ‘Bigger Together’ National Conference in Dallas, Texas. Nearly 2,000+ in-person and virtual attendees, representing over 200+ BBBS agencies nationwide, joined emcee and Media Maven, Sybil Wilkes, and Violinist, Richmond Punch, to commemorate the achievements of the inductees as they shared their inspiring personal stories, illustrating the enduring impact of mentorship and the critical role it plays in shaping futures.

Featuring remarkable leaders and volunteers representing diverse backgrounds from sports to entertainment, philanthropy, and business, the influential inductees have all made a significant difference in their communities and exemplified BBBS’ mission to empower all young people to reach their full potential.

The esteemed members of the third Alumni Hall of Fame class include (in alphabetical order):

  • Dale Long, 50-Year BBBS Volunteer, Former Big
  • Dennis Brown, CEO Emeritus, BBBS Hawaii, Former Little
  • Erin Scanlon, Deloitte & Touche LLP Partner, Deloitte Foundation President, Former Big
  • Hill Harper, New York Times Best-Selling Author, Award-Winning Actor, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Former Big
  • Marissa Solis, Senior Vice President, Global Brand and Consumer Marketing, NFL, Former Big and Little
  • Osa Odighizuwa, Defensive Tackle, Dallas Cowboys, Former Little

“It is with great pride that we honor and celebrate the 2024 inductees of the BBBSA Alumni Hall of Fame. Each honoree has championed the power of mentorship as individuals and leaders in their commitment to empowering future generations,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “Each year, we are thrilled to celebrate a group of our estimated 20 million alumni Bigs and Littles, who are change-makers in their communities and embody our ‘It Takes Little to be Big’ mentality at BBBS.”

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 and the District of Columbia. For more information, visit: www.bbbs.org

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.

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

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.

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.

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!

https://my.walls.io/MacysParade?show_header=0&nobackground=0&embedwidth=auto&embedheight=600

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.