Big Heroes is a Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois (BBBSIL) initiative focused on recruiting volunteers – Big Brothers, Big Sisters, and Big Couples – who work as first responders to be adult mentors to BBBSIL youth ages 6-14.

By matching first response professionals (e.g., firefighters, EMTs, law enforcement officers, military service members) with young people as one-to-one mentors, Big Heroes aims to help build strong, trusting, and enduring relationships between first responders and the youth, families, and communities they serve.

And like all BBBSIL programs, the goal of Big Heroes is ensuring that children and teenagers grow up with love, hope and opportunity; the initiative works toward that vision by connecting young people across Southwestern Illinois with caring, consistent adults.

The impact

Our evidence-based Big Heroes program builds social and emotional support, confidence and resilience that help to ensure young people:
 
  • Have a healthy physical and mental wellbeing
  • Are college and career ready

 

LITTLES ARE CONFIDENT THEY CAN SAY NO TO DRUGS, VIOLENCE, AND SKIPPING SCHOOL
LITTLES HAVE BETTER GRADES, ACADEMIC GOALS, AND CONFIDENCE
LITTLES FEEL LIKE THEY BELONG

Questions? Call 618.398.3162