l  HISTORY  l

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cedar Rapids and East Central Iowa started as a Big Brothers agency back in 1975, adding Big Sisters in the mid-1980's. Throughout our history, our mission has remained steadfast-to help boys and girls achieve their full potential through one-to-one mentoring relationships with carefully screened and caring adults. Big Brothers Big Sisters is the oldest, best known and probably the most sophisticated mentoring program in the United States.

Today, Big Brothers Big Sisters is serving more kids than ever with innovative programming that will impact our community on an even larger scale. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cedar Rapids and East Central Iowa adheres to strict national standards and is a member in good standing of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

l  OUTCOMES  l

In "Making a Difference: An Impact Study of Big Brothers Big Sisters," the research firm Public/Private Ventures looked at approximately 1,000 children from eight BBBSA agencies across the country. Half the children were assigned Big Brothers and Big Sisters, while the others were assigned to a control group. In less than 18 months, researchers found the Little Brothers and Little Sisters were 46% less likely than their unmatched peers to begin using drugs, 27% less likely to start using alcohol, 52% less likely to skip school or classes, and 33% less likely to initiate violence. They also became more confident in their school performance and got along better with their families. These findings represent more than numbers, they are impact statements! The program works, which is why Big Brothers Big Sisters will continue to aggressively seek to reach every child in need in our community. Working together, with our volunteers and community partners, we can create magical moments for hundreds of area children!

l  GOVERNANCE  l

Big Brothers Big Sisters receives its financial support from a variety of sources including foundations, corporations, Bowl For Kids' Sake, businesses, the United Way of East Central Iowa, and individual contributors. It serves the community through a professionally trained and experienced staff and a committed volunteer Board of Directors that carries out the agency's vision. A 30-member Board of Trustees also represents the support of area companies. Big Brothers Big Sisters is a United Way affiliated agency.

l  PROGRAMS  l

Join our Community Based Program and share activities with a child that you both enjoy... fishing, playing board games, cooking, going to the movies, or playing catch. We ask volunteers for a one year commitment and a minimum of 4 hours a month. Couples and families can all participate together!

Join one of our School Based Programs:
Lunch Buddies visit an elementary aged child at school once a week or every other week over lunch. Eat together, read books, play at recess or work on homework.
School Buddies meet with middle school students and participate in planned programming activities that teach life skills.  Topics addressed include alcohol and drug prevention, conflict management skills, self confidence builders and more.  School Buddies meet as a large group with other buddies twice a month.

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