Mentoring in Action: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts Celebrates National Mentoring Month
January is National Mentoring Month which underscores the value of mentorship in each of our lives. This month also kicks off the 75th year of service for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts. As we reflect on the nonprofit’s eras of evolution throughout this year, we’d like to take a moment to show you how mentors are so important in young people’s lives and why we need more adult volunteers to serve youth and families across the region.
Hear directly from Kevin and Treyvon. NBC Boston recently joined them for a community outing at our community partner, the New England Aquarium, where they took their first field trip together when matched seven years ago.
Over the course of their mentoring relationship, Treyvon credits Kevin for helping him to try new things, build confidence and come into his own. On the flip side, Kevin says watching Treyvon grow has also helped him grow as a person and see the world through fresh eyes.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts President & CEO Mark O’Donnell emphasizes the ripple effect that mentoring a child can have on families and communities at large. Guardians often report how having a caring adult in their children’s corner enables them the time to focus on their work, education, other children, and themselves. However, nationwide resources for families are dwindling. We need more adult volunteers to step up as mentors for our children to ensure they have the continued one-to-one support they need to reach their fullest potential.
Anyone can become a Big as the agency welcomes youth and adults of all races, ethnicities, cultures, socio-economic backgrounds, genders, sexual orientations, and physical abilities. Volunteers must be 18 years old or older and be able to commit a few hours a few times a month for at least a year and have a passion for positively impacting a young person’s life.
In its 75 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts has supported more than 25,000 youth. By 2028, the nonprofit aims to expand its reach to serve 10,000 youth in 150 communities statewide, supporting 2.5 million mentoring hours and delivering more than $57.5 million in mentoring value.
Think you have what it takes to become a mentor? Learn more and sign up to volunteer here.
Children s safety is our number one priority; throughout the duration of the match, not just the beginning!