#businessSPOTLIGHT: Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region
What services or products does your business offer?
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region, we create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. We connect youth (Littles) with caring adult mentors (Bigs) across our 7-county service area. Youth in our programs are more confident, safe and engaged at school. Together, we empower children to realize their potential.
How does your business separate itself from your competition?
We are affiliated with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, the nation’s largest donor and volunteer-supported mentoring network. We are an evidence-based program designed to promote avoidance of risky behavior, positive school engagement /educational success and strong interpersonal relationships. Our professional enrollment, match and program specialists frequently communicate with parents, volunteers, and youth to facilitate long-term, stable relationships that help children successfully navigate the path to adulthood. Throughout the lifetime of the match our trauma-informed staff provide Littles, Bigs and families with guidance, resources, training, activities and community referrals.
How do you see your business growing in the future?
Over the next 3 years we will look to accelerate our strategic plan in order to generate transformational investment and make transformational impact. BBBS will be a catalyst to influence access to more kids by expanding capacity, impact and innovation across our 7-county footprint. This will be achieved through our partnerships, public engagement and with our JEDI work (Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) with intentional initiatives to meet the needs of marginalized communities. We plan to increase our presence in Lancaster and Lebanon by adding physical offices.
How does your business get involved in the community?
We positively impact over 1,000 youth annually. Thanks to the support and generosity of the community, we increased the number of youth served by 53% in 2023. The community makes it possible for us to create and sustain customized programs that meet the needs of our youth. By engaging area professionals and corporate donors, we provide youth with opportunities for career exploration, soft skill development, and motivation to graduate with a plan to be enrolled, enlisted or employed. The relationships and partnerships we make in the community means everything to us, knowing we are always “BIGGER TOGETHER.”
How long has your business been a member of the Chamber?
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region has been a member since 2010, for over 14 years!
How has Chamber membership been beneficial to your business?
As a member of the West Shore Chamber of Commerce, our agency has been afforded the opportunity to build and strengthen numerous corporate and individual relationships and share vital news and events through various networking opportunities, advertisements and newsletters. As an added benefitto the membership our leadership has been recognized in various awards giving our mission even more visibility.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region serves Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry and York counties. To learn more, visit CAPBIGS.ORG or contact us at (717) 236-0199 or info@capbigs.org.