Children in New Mexico today face many challenges and obstacles.  Compared to the other fifty states, New Mexico is third highest in teen death, teen pregnancy, and children living in poverty.  We're also sixth highest in school dropouts and seventh highest in single parent families.

The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters for the past 100 years has been to provide opportunities for children to overcome these challenges and obstacles.  We do this by matching adults with children in one-to-one mentoring relationships. These matches spend time together on a consistent basis, which provides stability for the child.  Youth development experts agree that, in addition to their parents, children need additional supportive, caring adults in their lives.

The first Big Brothers Big Sisters organization in New Mexico was started in Albuquerque in 1969.  We are one of the lowest cost programs around, and we prove year after year that mentoring really works.

According to an independent national study of our program, children and youth that meet regularly with their Big Brother or Big Sisters are
*52% less likely to skip school
*46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs
*37% less likely to skip a class
*27% less likely to begin using alcohol
*33% less likely to engage in violent behavior

The impact of mentoring lasts well beyond childhood.  A study of 200 former Little Brothers and Sisters, who had been matched with a Big Brother or Sister for at least one year and are now adults over 25 years of age, shows the following results:
*While 57% of former Littles came from welfare homes, their average current personal income is $32,143 with only 3.8% currently unemployed.
*Average level of education: one year of college.
*While most came from single parent homes, only 18% were divorced.
*94% rated their Big Brother or Sister as helpful with nearly half still in touch with their former Big Brother or Sister.

When you think of children in the community, remember that you and your business can do something to help.  Partner financially with Big Brothers Big Sisters today and know you can help provide little moments of big magic in the lives of our community's children.  For more information please contact, Jeanette Schachter, Special Events Coordinator, via email or call at 837-9223.