Start Something BIG
Leave a Lasting
Transforming our community one child at a time.
Big Brothers Big Sisters is the largest, most well-known, most researched and measured youth mentoring program in the United States. The heart of our program is a thoroughly screened adult volunteer mentor, known as a "Big", matched with a child ("Little") in a relationship that is carefully monitored and supported.
Here in Central California, our local, independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization has helped more than 30,000 youth since its inception in 1968. Youth of promise that benefit from extra attention and receive exposure to more life options than may be available in their own surroundings.
We define success based on measurable outcomes and scales. By working with our donors, mentors, children, families, and partners, we hope to drive collaboration to find solutions to the challenges facing our country's disadvantaged youths.
Our belief in the impact of our work is the driving force behind Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California. We seek to put children on a path to lifelong success and change the trajectories of their lives in positive ways. To achieve our mission, we commit to measuring and reaching for specific youth outcomes.
National research shows that positive relationships between Littles and their Bigs have a direct and measurable impact on children's lives.
By donating to our organization, you are joining our mission of positively affecting children in your community. Every day, we work tirelessly to change the perspectives of children and give them opportunities to achieve great things. But without community support, we couldn't offer our mentoring services.
In 1978, I met Donnie, an 8-year-old boy, through Big Brothers Big Sisters. We spent weekends together for 10 years. He became like the son I never had. We made memories fishing, skiing, and enjoying the outdoors. He struggled in school, but I stayed involved until he graduated. We lost touch for 35 years. In 2023, BBBS reunited us. Now he's a father of four. BBBS changed both our lives. One connection, one commitment, can change everything.
I first met Janell on Match Day in 2013, when she was just 11 years old. From the beginning, we connected and shared countless adventures. I tried to support her through life's highs and challenges, but she taught me just as much. Talented in school, sports, art, and music, she even performed with the Youth Orchestra of Fresno. Today, she's starting her Master's in Marriage & Family Therapy while working full time with foster youth in Oregon.
I was matched with Dominick in 2014 when he was 11. He lived with his mom, two sisters, and her boyfriend. His father was in prison, and he had experienced trauma at a young age. We bonded over baseball, football, and flipping items on Craigslist — even rode in the Fresno PD helicopter. In 2015, he nominated me for Big Brother of the Year. I'm proud to say he graduated high school, avoided trouble, works at the airport, and is now in the final stages of joining the TSA.
Legacy
Create a lasting impact by making a gift through your Will, Trust, Retirement Account, or Life Insurance.
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