Big Brothers Big Sisters hosts FREE, Premier Networking Event to Help Bridge the Mentor Gap in RI! BIG Raffle, Outstanding Food, and AMAZING Connections.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island (BBBSRI) is joining Big Brothers Big Sisters of America in launching a new brand campaign, "It Takes Little to be Big," aimed at addressing the pressing need for Mentors across the United States. This initiative is designed to combat the two primary obstacles that potential volunteers encounter when considering mentorship: the perceived lack of time and the burden associated with mentorship. Statistics reveal that one in three children in America are growing up without a consistent, positive adult Mentor, and more than 30,000 children nationwide are on a waitlist, eagerly awaiting a Mentor. In Rhode Island alone, there are 25+ boys enrolled and waiting, with an additional 200+ on the waitlist.

This critical need for Mentors prompts a call to action. On Tuesday, September 26th, at 5:30 PM, BBBSRI will host "Fueling Futures in RI: A Community Conversation and Networking Event" at their headquarters in Providence. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with community change-makers, exchange ideas on fostering mentorship, and participate in a panel discussion led by Mentors, Mentees, and community leaders transformed by mentoring. This event is free to attend and includes complimentary food from local favorite, Incredabowl, and attendees will also have the chance to win $100 to Providence's hottest new restaurant, Fogo de Chão, and $100 to the Providence Place Mall just by attending! Register to attend at bit.ly/CONVO.

Mentorship remains one of the most powerful tools for bridging the gap between individuals and their untapped potential. It’s 30 minutes over a cup of coffee. It’s 20 minutes of gaming, best 2 out of 3. It’s the time it takes to enjoy a slice or two of pizza. The power of mentorship lies in these little moments that have the potential to inspire and shape us. BBBSRI’s 2022 year-end survey results show that 97% of Mentees moved onto the next grade in fall 2022, 89% demonstrated improved social skills, a more positive attitude, and increased self-confidence and self-esteem. The positive effects extended to Mentors as well, with 96% of Mentors reporting a positive impact from the Mentoring Program and 100% of Mentors stating they’d recommend the program to their friends, family, or business associates.

BBBSRI urges everyone to Be Big…and to become a Mentor today. Visit BigsRI.org. You don’t need a specific title, a degree, or special qualifications other than being compassionate, patient, and accepting. It takes a little time, a little encouragement, and a laugh or two, so that every child has what—and who—they need to achieve a BIG and brighter future. Mentorship sounds huge, but the truth is...IT TAKES LITTLE TO BE BIG!

BBBSRI creates and supports one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. If you are interested in becoming a mentor, making a donation to support our program, organizing a clothing drive or fundraiser for your school or group, or learning more about our initiatives, please visit www.BigsRI.org, call (401) 921-2434, or email events@BigsRI.org.