About Big Brothers
Big Sisters of
SouthWestern Illinois
LITTLES HAD IMPROVEMENT IN THEIR EDUCATIONAL ASPIRATIONS
LITTLES SAW AN IMPROVEMENT IN THEIR GRADES
LITTLES FELT MORE SOCIALLY ACCEPTED BY THEIR PEERS
LITTLES HAD THE ABILITY TO REGULATE NEGATIVE EMOTIONS
OUr Impact
40+ years of success
Since 1980, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois has seen the remarkable impact of one-to-one mentoring on the lives of children. We work diligently to foster a long-standing relationship with our mentors and children by providing ongoing support to the Big, the Little, and the Little’s family. Through this nurturing relationship, we have witnessed how lives are transformed for the better.
DEFENDING POTENTIAL
IN A BIG WAY
Serving our community since 1980, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois (BBBSIL) is the premier nonprofit mentoring organization in Southwestern Illinois. We champion hope, transformation, and social good, defending the potential of children who most need it.
BBBSIL develops future leaders, strengthens families, and builds community. We:
Match at-risk youth (Littles) with professionally supported adult mentors (Bigs)
Develop mentorship programs with evidence-based models known to have a lasting impact on children’s lives
Are the only mentorship program in the country recommended by the CDC to prevent adverse childhood experiences and trauma
Are recognized by the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP) as a proven prevention strategy
Driven to make Southwestern Illinois a safe haven where children can grow and thrive, we have developed a network of strategic partnerships with local businesses and community organizations. We know that together we can do big things.
ACCOUNTABILITY TO GOOD STEWARDSHIP
Policies
When you make a gift, you put your trust in us – something we take very seriously. Your contributions directly drive the impact our organization has on the lives of hundreds of at-risk children in our community. Because we value complete transparency, we invite you to review our most recent financial statements and annual report.
Board & Leadership
The team guiding Big Brothers Big Sisters of Yavapai.
Brianna Anderson
Executive Director
Mary Ellen Sweet
Administrative Director
Sammy Maddox
Enrollment Coordinator
Ashley Zackus
Match Support Specialist
Ashley Zackus
Match Support Specialist
Meet the board
Careers
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois is an affiliate of the oldest, largest and most respected mentoring organization in the United States.
- Health benefits & PTO
- Training & development
- Inclusive, safety-first culture
Open Roles
Big Brothers Big Sisters is an equal opportunity employer. Background checks may be required for certain roles.
Our History
In 1979, a group of social workers from the Belleville Area Special Education District and concerned community volunteers came together to form an interest group, which became the first Board of Directors. The problem they wanted to address was the growing number of students in need of positive role models and mentors. In 1980, this group requested affiliation with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, hired the first staff person as Executive Director, became incorporated as a non-profit organization in Illinois, and applied for tax exempt status with the IRS.
In the first year of providing service to youth facing adversity, the agency matched 35 children with mentors and served over 80 children through group activities. Since that time, thousands of children have benefited from the individual attention of a positive role model and mentor. With the support of the individuals and corporations in the community, the agency expanded services to Madison County in 1986. Services began in Clinton County in 2001 and in Monroe County in 2003. Now, more than 400 youth have been matched with a mentor and more than 45 children received counseling services by our in-house counselor.
Our Vision
All youth achieve their full potential.
Our MIssion
Create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.
Invest in a Child's Future.
When you support Big Brothers Big Sisters, you change lives for children here in your community.