At Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Luis Obispo County we made our first Match 14 years ago. Since then we have served over 1,100 children from every city in the County. We are part of the oldest youth mentoring organization in the United States, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, founded in 1904.

Research and anecdotal evidence show specifically that BBBS one-to-one mentoring helps at-risk youth overcome the many challenges they face. Little Brothers and Sisters are less likely to begin using illegal drugs, consume alcohol, skip school and classes, or engage in acts of violence. They have greater self-esteem, confidence in their schoolwork performance, and are able to get along better with their friends and families. To experience the difference Big Brother or Big Sister can make, read about real life matches.

In 2004, Big Brothers Big Sisters was selected by Forbes Magazine as one of its top ten charities, making the publications gold star list of charities which it believes are worthy of donor consideration, in its annual survey of 200 large charities. The magazine surveyed 200 non-profits and rated them on how efficiently they collect and distribute dollars. Forbes looked at three categories: charitable commitment; fundraising efficiency, and donor dependency.