At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona (BBBSAZ) we know that every young person has the potential to do great things. Unfortunately, kids today are in crisis and their potential can be threatened.
Anxiety and depressive symptoms doubled for young people during the pandemic, according to the U.S. Surgeon General’s advisory on protecting youth mental health. In 2021, emergency room visits by teens for suspected suicide attempts were 51% higher than in 2020.
At Big Brothers Big Sisters, our mentors add additional layers of support for the mentees enrolled in our programs. Bigs provide a safe, trusting environment where youth can share their thoughts, process their feelings, and gain confidence to try new things.
According to an article from Mentor.com “Mentors have always been assets to young people when they are experiencing periods of stress, depression, anxiety, or even more serious mental health challenges. Inherent in the role of mentor is the idea that this person is there for a youth through the good and the bad, but especially in times when life feels overwhelming or hopeless.”
National research has shown us that kids matched with mentors through BBBS programs had better mental health outcomes when compared to their peers. They also exhibit an increase in resiliency and overall self-esteem.
Join us to protect the mental health of youth in our community!!
VOLUNTEER to become a Big. Meet up with your Little at least two times per month for one year to do things you enjoy Explore your common interests together but most importantly, be a listening ear and a source of guidance for a kid.
DONATE in support of our mentorship programs. BBBSAZ is a qualifying organization for the Arizona State Tax Credit. Through this program, your donation becomes a dollar-for-dollar tax credit (up to $400 per individual or $800 per couple, filing jointly).