Since 1904, Big Brothers Big Sisters has operated under the belief that inherent in every child is incredible potential. As the nation’s largest donor- and volunteer-supported mentoring network, Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (Bigs) and children (Littles), ages five through young adulthood in communities across the country. We develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people. Mental health and well-being are critical priorities for BBBS because we know that our trusted mentors (Bigs) are in a good position to help young people build resilience and to intervene when a young person experiences mental health challenges to help them access the right support. These positive relationships can help youth better cope with exposure to traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety symptoms, and support their overall mental well-being. Our evidence-based mentoring model shows that the presence of a caring adult mentor can help to improve mental health outcomes for youth in BBBS programs, as highlighted in the sidebar. In 2022, with support from Harry’s, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), Futures Without Violence, and the National Council for Mental Wellbeing formed a new partnership to respond to the crisis. Team: Changing Minds is based on a need to help reduce the time it takes for young people experiencing a mental health challenge to access appropriate support, especially for young men and boys of color, for whom it often takes years to receive help. This first of its kind approach is focused on meeting youth where they are and equipping the caring adults in their lives to recognize signs of mental health challenges in young people, understand the types of available mental health supports, and respond in a supportive way.
BBBS Upstate SpotlightMeet Big Debbie and Little McKenzie! They have been matched for 7 months, and have participated in many fun activities in that time! They’ve been to movies, the Peace Center, Frankie’s Fun Park, and even had a family game night at Debbie’s home! “McKenzie is a very caring person, she is always concerned for others…we spend lots of our time together laughing and enjoying each other’s company. And we both love Mexican food so that’s a bonus!” We are so proud to have Debbie and McKenzie’s match in our program! We hope you continue to grow your relationship, and we’re so excited to hear about all that you accomplish!
Fundraising Events16th Annual Pep RallyJoin us for the 16th Annual Carolina-Clemson Pep Rally hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Upstate on Friday, November 15th! We’re thrilled to hold this year’s event at the stunning Embassy Suites by Hilton Greenville Golf Resort & Conference Center, our TITLE SPONSOR! Check out the link below to see our current sponsors and Tasty Tailgaters. Tickets for individuals and full tables are on sale now—don’t miss out!
Craft Axe ThrowingCraft Axe Throwing is partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Upstate to support mentoring relationships! Throughout September and October, customers at the Greenville and Spartanburg Craft Axe Throwing locations can make a donation at checkout, which directly creates and supports matches for disadvantaged children in the Upstate. A big thank you to our amazing partner, Craft Axe Throwing!
Become a Match MakerMATCH MAKERS empower the potential of children across the Upstate through individual giving. By making a monthly gift, you will help introduce a waiting Little to their Big each and every month. Due to inflation, it now costs $2,250 to support one match. Here’s the breakdown.
Make a one-time or recurring gift to help fund a match. See the one-time or monthly giving levels below along with their impacts and benefits.
Happy Anniversary to our September matches! We’re so excited to hear about the adventures you go on this year.
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