The Traditional program serves boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 18. A Big Brother or Big Sister becomes a friend, confidant and mentor. The relationship provides the “Little” with an increased sense of belonging, and often leads to enhanced communication skills and improved performance at home, at school and the community. Each volunteer is carefully screened and commits to spending a few hours a week, for at least a year, with a Little Brother or Little Sister, sharing experiences, accomplishments and concerns. The mentor and child have the flexibility to do different activities in the community.

The Results

Researchers found that after 18 months of spending time with their Bigs, the Little Brothers and Little Sisters were:

• 46 percent less likely to begin using illegal drugs
• 27 percent less likely to begin using alcohol
• 52 percent less likely to skip school
• 37 percent less likely to skip class
• More confident of their performance in schoolwork
• One-third less likely to hit someone, and
• Getting along better with their families