Nonprofit Spotlight: Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast

Anna Maria Island

Published Feb 16, 2022

There are many nonprofit organizations in Bradenton and the surrounding area. Each one is doing incredible work to support our community by helping those less fortunate, promoting the arts, providing education, and more.

During our nonprofit spotlight series, we'll highlight information about a different local nonprofit each week.

Can you tell us a little bit about your mission and the things you do to help to support our community?

Our Mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. For over 50 years, Big�Brothers�Big Sisters of the Sun Coast has been matching youth with adult volunteers who help them meet their potential and achieve their biggest possible futures.

Our evidence-based approach is designed to create positive youth outcomes. Our Littles enjoy greater educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence, and improved relationships. This past year, Big�Brothers�Big Sisters of the Sun Coast has served over 1,500 youth across a 10 county footprint.

Who do you serve and why?

Big Brothers�Big Sisters serves young people from age six through twenty-one in one-to-one mentoring friendships. Each match is supported by a dedicated Match Support Specialist who is always there to provide resources and support specific to the Little's age. With a Big in their life, Littles in the program are empowered to ignite their potential as they grow in their self-esteem, earn better grades, and develop a lifelong friendship with their Big.

Can you describe a few of your key programs?

Our Community-Based Program provides a child with individual time and attention. They get to enjoy outings filled with conversations and shared activities with their Bigs. These encounters foster a relationship that helps youth manage the everyday challenges that are part of growing up.

Some of the outings and activities Bigs and Littles might enjoy together include going to a museum, walking in the park, listening to music, or just hanging out and talking. Some of the Bigs meet their Littles on the weekends while others plan activities in the evenings. Each relationship is unique, and Bigs and Littles work together to find a schedule that works for everyone.

We also have a School-Based Program where the volunteer meets with the child for one hour per week at his or her school. Kids enjoy having their Bigs meet with them there, whether it�s in the classroom or on the playground - and parents know what a positive impact it makes.

What's the best way our community can help?

We appreciate and are grateful for the support of our community. A few of the best ways people can help include:

>> Becoming a Big
>> Volunteering
>> Attending and supporting our fundraising events

For further information please call our Manatee office at: 941.746.7000.

Many studies show that if a child has that one trusted adult, it can make all the difference. Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast provides children with a positive role model who makes a difference in their life! To learn more, visit their website and follow them on Facebook.

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

PALMETTO / ELLENTON

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

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