Big Brothers Big Sisters of Reno County

Goal: $7,500.00

Specific Need

Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters has been serving the youth of Reno County for 24 years. Over the last 4 years, the number of youth served has grown an average of 17&, and the number of new matches made have grown an average of 45%. We are so proud that we are serving more youth facing adversity, but the need remains great. As of March 11, 2024, there were 32 youth on the waiting list, and another 41 waiting to be on the waiting list.

We are working diligently to support our local budget and continue to serve more youth who need us. We would sincerely appreciate your support!

Mission

Create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.

Profile

KSBBBS is an evidence-based, one-to-one mentoring program that serves youth facing adversity, ages 5 to 25 years, by matching them to carefully screened, volunteers who model good behaviors, offer encouragement, and provide new perspectives to help youth realize their potential and build their futures. After a scientific study was published by BBBS national, the CDC stated that the BBBS model is the strongest model for creating the necessary supports to outweigh childhood adversities. The results of the BBBS national study show that children with the support of a dedicated mentor have higher rates of high school graduation, attendance in college or technical programs, and living wage jobs in adulthood.

Of the 151 youth who have come to us for enrollment in the last two years in Reno County:

• 52% have a social life that is limited or concerning with 37% of those saying they feel isolated and have few friends
• 61% are struggling in school
• 58% have a direct family member that is or has been involved with law enforcement
• 54% have been involved or witnessed some type of abuse
• 67% live in a single parent home

In the end, these are just kids, great kids, eager for a little one-to-one time and attention. A Big Brother, Big Sister, Big Couple or Big Family could change the trajectory of their lives (we see it happen every day)!