What a Big Did for Me
When Big Brother Ralph was growing up on an Indian Reservation little did he realize the great role he would play in other children’s futures.
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Our impact on juvenile justice
Big Brothers Big Sisters knows that children that avoid interactions with the juvenile justice system – and violence, drugs, and alcohol - are more likely to succeed and make their communities stronger and more vibrant. That's why our professional staff members, supporters, families, and advocates support, encourage and champion the relationships between Bigs and Littles. Bigs help teach their Littles right from wrong and help them make good decisions.
Calendar
- April 17, 2012
Bowl for Kids' Sake at Robbinsdale Lanes, Rapid City - April 20, 2012
Bowl for Kids' Sake at Bandit Lanes, EAFB and Lucky Strike Lanes, Spearfish - April 27, 2012
Bowl for Kids' Sake at Meadowood Lanes, Rapid City - April 28, 2012
Bowl for Kids' Sake at Robbinsdale Lanes, Rapid City - March 1, 2012
Bowl for Kids' Sake Pledge Forms Will Be Available March 1st
Our landmark study
Our impact on juvenile justice is evident in longstanding research conducted by Public Private Ventures in 1992 and 1993. When comparing those children matched with a mentor to those waiting to be served by Big Brothers Big Sisters, these researchers found that:
- Littles were 46 percent less likely to initiate drug use.
- Littles were 27 percent less likely to initiate alcohol use.
- Littles were almost one-third less likely to hit someone.
What our alumni say
Our impact on good decision making is felt long after Littles graduate from high school and from our program. In 2009, Harris Interactive conducted an online survey of alumni Littles from across the nation. Among those former Littles:
- 90% said their relationship with their Big helped them make better choices throughout their childhood.
- 86% said their relationship with their Big has helped them make better choices throughout their adult life.
- 76% said they learned right from wrong from their Big.
