Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio
Who We Are: Since 1933, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio has operated under the belief that inherent in every child is incredible potential. As part of the nation’s largest donor and volunteer supported mentoring network, we make meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages five through young adulthood in communities across Ohio.
Located in Columbus, we currently operate additional offices serving Delaware and Union Counties. We provide resources for subsidiary affiliates in Springfield, Greater Cleveland, East Central Ohio, and South Central Ohio, and own and operate Camp Oty’Okwa in the Hocking Hills.
What We Do: The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth and every day we welcome new Littles with the goal of doing just that- igniting their potential. Our data-driven, evidence-based program includes providing ongoing coaching, training and support to the mentors, youth and families who collaborate with us in this work. We develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people.
Last year we served over 6,300 kids in one-to-one mentoring relationships and through programs at Camp Oty’Okwa.
Why We're Important: Our work could not be more urgent. Each day we witness the growth that comes from creating transformative relationships for young people. When done well, the consistency and security of a mentoring relationship can be the very thing a young person needs the most. It’s the gateway to the kind of skill development, goal setting, and self-assurance that leads to a fulfilling future.
The last year was filled with uncertainty and change, but having a caring adult role model provided local children with the support they needed to navigate whatever came their way. We empower youth with the resilience they need to thrive.
How We Impact The Community: At Big Brothers Big Sisters we facilitate meaningful connections that impact the people involved and influence their lives at home, at work, and in their communities. Our program is an essential service that builds bridges of understanding.
For those being mentored, it is linked to improved academic, social, and economic prospects. For those mentoring, the relationship can build leadership and management skills, expand a mentor’s professional network, and provide an empowering opportunity to give back to the community.
We frequently partner with community organizations and also support and actively mobilize tangible resources for families.
How You Can Help: Whether you get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio as a donor, potential Big Brother or Big Sister, partner, advocate, or family member, you have the power to change a child’s future for the better.
To stay up to date with everything we have going on at Big Brothers Big Sisters, follow us on social media @BBBSCentralOH.
To learn more about volunteering, visit bbbscentralohio.org/volunteer.
To learn more about financially supporting the work we do, visit bbbscentralohio.org/donate or contact Ryan Love at rlove@bbbscentralohio.org.
Connect with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio
1855 East Dublin Granville Road Columbus, OH 43229 614-839-2447 www.bbbscentralohio.org
Executive Director: President & CEO Elizabeth Martinez Development Director: VP of Resource Development Ryan Love Email: rlove@bbbscentralohio.org Board Chair: Matt Kramer, KPMG
