The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles (BBBSLA) is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and potential of youth. Our agency serves approximately 1,500 children annually, 95% of whom are Black and Brown youth who face adversity due to their economic and family circumstances. The events of the past few months – both COVID-19 and the tragic injustices against our Black communities – have affected our youth at a higher rate than most, and BBBSLA has embraced our role not only as “Defenders of Potential” (our national tagline) of the youth we serve, but also “Defenders of Futures” for every young person in our city.

The impact of both the pandemic and the state of our society on mental health, especially in children, is as strong, if not stronger, than the physical impact when considering the widespread, long-term effect of this trauma. Studies have shown that having a sense of community and a consistent mentor/mentor-like figure is a key protective factor against depression, anxiety, substance abuse, truancy, violence, and other adverse behaviors. By ensuring that our matches stay connected (and that we make new matches for more at-risk youth), we can combat the intensified risk factors that our youth are currently facing.

In addition to mental health, Big Brothers Big Sisters protects and ensures the physical well-being of the children we serve. Every Little is being checked on regularly by their Big Brother/Big Sister AND our BBBS staff to share community resources and ensure they are healthy, safe and have access to basic provisions like food and shelter.

BBBS is a vital and essential resource to our community that ensures that no child falls through the cracks, and we are committed to growing our impact within the community.