Andy — my name is Damon King, and I wanted to take a moment to say thank you for expressing your interest in Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

By adding your name to our list, you’ve expressed your interest in empowering youth across the country. For that, I am very grateful.

The challenges young people and Littles in our programs are facing are numerous:

• 63% of Littles live in a single-parent household (vs. national average of 34%)
• 53% of Littles have been bullied in the past year (vs. national average of 20%)
• 51% of Littles have worries that affect their daily life (vs. national average of 7%)

But these numbers do not define who these kids really are. The promise of their potential is determined by the resources, opportunities, and positive relationships available to them in moments big and small. Through the support of their Bigs, Littles experience improvements in their social emotional health, academic success, and overall confidence — which can help them navigate any of the challenges listed above.

That’s why it really doesn’t matter how much time or money a person can give. We believe that big things start small — one moment, one action, one person at a time. And we’re here to invite you into the process wherever you may be today.

During my time at Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, I have witnessed how young people, inspired by a positive mentor, can overcome adversity to realize their potential and to really thrive in life.

That’s where the need to build a strong and loving community comes in, Andy. We help create space where Bigs and Littles can come together to inspire one another and ignite potential.

Together we can reach young people in cities, rural and urban, and in schools, big and small to change the lives of millions.

Let’s go big,

Damon King,
Sr. Manager Constituent Stewardship and Alumni Relations
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America