With a generous grant from Thunderbirds Charities, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona (BBBSAZ) will provide professionally supported mentoring relationships through the ongoing Phoenix Mentoring Program. The purpose of the BBBSAZ Mentoring Program is to create and support mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. The collaborative program will match volunteer mentors (Bigs) to children in need of a positive role model (Littles). The Bigs will meet regularly with their Littles throughout the Phoenix community.

“We are so excited to be partnering with Thunderbirds Charities to create and support more Big and Little Matches,” said Laura Capello, President and CEO of BBBSAZ. “Today, children face tremendous challenges, but through effective and sustained mentoring, we can work together to make a positive and measurable difference in their lives.”

Outcomes for youth enrolled in the Phoenix Mentoring Program with BBBSAZ include improvements in the areas of academics and relationships, and avoidance of risky behaviors. This one-on-one mentoring program addresses the lack of adult support and role models for low-income youth. Youth who grow up in poverty can face numerous challenges that their peers with more resources do not. Having a caring adult role model is a key protective factor in helping youth build resiliency.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona (BBBSAZ)

This grant is part of the Fall 2023 cycle. View a list of all Recent Grantees.