Big Brother Big Sister Foundation is proud to support Massachusetts Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies who, for over 110 years, have been making one-to-one professionally supported matches between adult volunteers and at-risk children. These positive relationships help children thrive and build stronger communities.

Mentors not only matter to “littles” but also directly impact our communities.

In 2013, the U.S. spent $6 billion on juvenile correction.

In FY 2010, the average annual cost for one bed in a secure detention facility in MA was approximately $110,000. The annual cost for one shelter bed in a medium secure placement in MA was only slightly lower at just over $95,000.

Those incarcerated as juveniles are 39% less likely to graduate
from high school.  And 41% more likely to have entered adult prison by age 25.

1% increase in the high school graduation rate would yield $1.8 billion dollars in social benefits (in 2004 dollars).

The social benefits include reduced losses in productivity and wages, lower medical costs, and smaller quality-of-life reductions stemming from crime.

Students who meet regularly with their mentors are 52% less likely than their peers to skip a day of school and 37% less likely to skip a class.  Youth who meet regularly with their mentors are 46% less likely than their peers to start using illegal drugs & 27% less likely to start drinking.