In 2011, BBBS served 2,950 youth through community-based and site-based mentoring relationships. According to the Executive Summary of “Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Youth Outcome Report”, released in January 2012, researchers found statistically significant improvement in three outcomes areas for youth who were mentored at least one year – in the areas of Socio-Emotional Competency (especially in the areas of social acceptance and the presence of a special adult), Educational Success (especially in scholastic competency and educational expectations), and Attitudes Towards Risky Behaviors (which is correlated with avoidance of risky behaviors, including smoking, drugs, drinking, truancy, and hitting someone). BBBS of the Greater Twin Cities was one of the agencies included in the analysis of data for this report. Additionally, through our annual program outcome evaluation BBBS of the Greater Twin Cities showed the following impacts among the youth it served: 73% showed an increase in confidence (which measures self-confidence, expressing feelings and making decisions, among others); 62% showed an increase in competence (which measures use of community/school resources, academic performance, school preparedness, class participation/behavior, and avoiding delinquency, early parenting, and substance abuse); and 69% showed an increase in caring (which measures ability to show trust, respect other cultures, and relationships with family, peers, and other adults). Specifically, 70% improved academic performance, 67% improved their attitudes toward school, 67% improved their relationships with adults, 42% were better able to avoid substance abuse, and 85% improved in self-confidence, among other factors.

1. Enhance the quality of our mentoring program and initiatives. 2. Build a balanced, diversified and stable funding stream to support and sustain growth. 3. Ensure the long-term financial viability of the organization with an emphasis on sustainable growth. 4. Attract, retain and develop staff and volunteers who are passionate about the mission of BBBS and exhibit its values. 5. Continue to enhance the effectiveness of the board, its leadership and committees.

Based on socio-economic and demographic information obtained during the BBBS intake process: 80% of the children we serve are in low-income famlies; AMore than 80% come from single-parent familes, live with a relative or reside in foster care; and 75% are children of color.

Hennepin, Ramsey, and Washington Counties