Big Brothers Big Sisters of Acadiana

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Acadiana is the region’s preeminent 1-to-1 youth mentoring organization. We unite young people (Littles) with caring, positive adult role models (Bigs) in professionally-supported 1-to-1 mentoring friendships. These relationships provide Littles with the tools they will need to overcome the adversities they face and develop the characteristics they need for academic, social, and economic success. We believe that every youth, with the right support, can reach their fullest potential. Our outcomes-based 1:1 mentoring model is designed to bridge the opportunity gap in Acadiana by meeting kids where they are and empowering them to transform their lives and their communities. Our organization offers Site-Based mentoring, which takes place in a school, Boys & Girls Club, or similar setting, or Community-Based mentoring, which allows Bigs and Littles in matches to spend 1:1 time together doing free or low-cost activities in their community. Bigs support their Littles by empowering them to say no to drugs, violence, and skipping school, helping them achieve better grades and reach their academic goals, and providing the tools for them to gain confidence and establish and sense of belonging. By uplifting youth in Acadiana, our impact reverberates throughout society as a whole. We support Littles into young adulthood by championing the importance of enrollment, enlistment, or employment, giving them an avenue to achieve their long-term goals and provide a stable pathway to their future success. We are proud to say that 92% of our Littles expect to graduate from high school and attend college. BBBSA’s social outcomes translate to economic wins that benefit everyone. On average, former BBBSA Littles earn $315,000 more over their lifetime, meaning that for every $1 investment in BBBSA, $18 returns back to society.