Statement Of Need
Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies establish and oversee ongoing, one-to-one friendships between at risk children, and adult volunteers. The goal of these matches is to produce positive changes in the child, including a strengthened sense of self worth at home, at school, and in the community.
Independent field studies have concluded that Big Brothers Big Sisters is highly effective in alleviating emotional problems, preparing a child for adulthood and preventing juvenile delinquency, drug abuse, and teen pregnancy. In fact, an independent research firm completed a study on 1000 "at-risk" youth involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters and they found that 27% were less likely to begin using alcohol; 37% were less likely to skip a class; 52% were less likely to skip school; the youth were generally more confident in their schoolwork; less likely to hit someone; and had improved relationships with their families. But the most significant findings were that 27% were less likely to begin using alcohol, and of the minority children in the study, 70% were less likely than their peers to initiate drug use. Due to these prevention measures, Big Brothers Big Sisters is extremely cost effective.
Given this theoretical framework and the trends in family life, (e.g. the increase of single parent families and the increased stress placed on these families) the benefits of a stable, mature, nurturing friendship between an adult and a child are evident.
The establishment of a one-to-one relationship is the primary and most distinguishing characteristic of this service. Because the need is so great, Big Brothers Big Sisters has become the fastest growing youth oriented social service organization in the United States.