Since 1969, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central New Mexico has been creating magic in people's lives.  BBBS works to help boys and girls achieve their potential by matching them one-to-one in positive relationships with adult volunteers. A volunteer does not need any special skills to be a Big Brother or Big Sister. They only need to be interested in sharing special moments with a child. Just by sharing experiences, celebrating accomplishments, and listening to a child's concerns, a Big Brother or Big Sister can make a difference in the life of a child.

Who Our Littles Are

Youth ages 6-18 will benefit from a one-to-one friendship with a positive adult.

• Ninety-five percent are from single parent families.
• Ninety percent are low-income.
• Eighty-three percent are minorities.

The Difference We Make

A recent study conducted by a national research firm (Public/Private Ventures (PP/V)) examined the impact of our program on youth and found that when compared to their peers, Little Brothers and Little Sisters who met with their Big Brothers or Sisters for at least one year were:

• 46% less likely to start using drugs;
• 27% less likely to start drinking;
• 33% less likely to act violently;
• 52% less likely to skip a day of school, and earned higher grades.

Almost across the board these outcomes are higher for minority youth. For example:

• Minority boys are 67% less likely to start using drugs; and
• Minority girls are 72% less likely to start using drugs.

Success Rates

BBBS receives a high rating from a number of charity watch-dog organizations:                                                                                  

             The American Institute of Philanthropy  
                 (www.charitywatch.org/toprated.html) includes BBBS
                 on its 'top-rated' list of charities, giving BBBS an 'A+'
                 for putting 75% or more of funds towards program
                 costs.
 

             Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator.org) gives BBBS,
                 its top rating of four stars.  BBBS is commended
                 for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.  In addition, BBBS
                 is ranked at the top of its peer list of youth serving
                 organizations.