Big Brothers Big Sisters Expands Mentorship Impact

Grand Island, NE – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Nebraska is transforming lives through the power of mentorship. For decades, the organization has connected young people with caring adult role models who provide guidance, encouragement, and support. In 2024, Big Brothers Big Sisters experienced remarkable growth, expanding its programs and deepening its impact on the lives of local youth.
 
However, the need for support has never been greater. With 1 in 3 youth facing adolescence, trauma, and life decisions without a mentor, the organization is calling on the community to help meet the growing demand. In today’s economic climate, youth programs face rising risks as funding and resources become increasingly uncertain. Without consistent, meaningful mentorship, young people are more vulnerable to disconnection and missed opportunities.
 
“Now more than ever, it is critical that we stand firm in our mission to support and uplift all young people,” said Brenna Poindexter, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Nebraska. “But we can’t do it alone. Mentorship changes lives, and with the support of our community, we can continue to create safe, inspiring spaces for youth to thrive.”

Mentorship Changes Lives
The impact of mentorship is clear. In 2024, 92% of youth in Big Brothers Big Sisters programs reported feeling a stronger sense of belonging and connection to a caring adult. The program also fostered stronger peer relationships, with 88% of Littles expressing a greater sense of connection with their peers.
 
Mentorship has also been shown to drive positive behavioral outcomes. Youth involved in BBBS mentoring programs are 41% less likely to engage in substance abuse. The program also strengthens school engagement, with 82% of Littles reporting they are more connected and involved in their education. In 2024, 95% of Littles planned to graduate from high school, with the majority aiming for college.
 
Most significantly, the program helps keep young people on the right path. Over 99% of Littles in the program remained free from arrests and contact with the juvenile justice system.
 
The long-term impact of mentoring is best demonstrated through success stories like that of Arkady Sanchez, a former Little. Arkady graduated from high school in 2021 and initially attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. After a year, he returned home for medical reasons but remained committed to his education, earning an associate degree in general education with an emphasis in biology from Central Community College. Throughout this journey, Arkady has shown remarkable resilience and dedication. He has been working full-time as a manager at The Buckle and plans to return to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in the fall of 2025 to pursue a nursing degree and become a Registered Nurse. Despite the challenges he faced, Arkady and his Big, Joe, have stayed in touch—demonstrating the enduring power of mentoring relationships and their lifelong impact.

The Rising Need for Support
With the annual cost of a match at $2,500, Big Brothers Big Sisters relies on the generosity of the community to sustain and grow its life-changing programs. Each match provides a child with a consistent, caring mentor who offers stability, guidance, and encouragement—factors that are proven to positively shape a young person’s future.
 
As the organization looks ahead to 2025, Poindexter emphasized the importance of community support. “Every child deserves to have someone in their corner—someone who shows up, listens, and believes in their potential,” she said. “Our programs are making a real difference, but we need our community’s partnership to continue this critical work.”
 
To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Nebraska or to support its mission, visit mentorcentral.org or contact us at (308) 384.3456.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Nebraska:
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Nebraska is a mentoring organization committed to helping youth realize their full potential through one-to-one relationships and group programs. Its mission is to ignite the power and promise of youth by providing them with the support, connections, and opportunities they need to succeed.