Giving Tuesday is a nationwide day of generosity that strengthens nonprofits and communities. For Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida, Giving Tuesday plays a critical role in reducing the statewide mentor waitlist and supporting local agencies that provide life-changing relationships for young people.
State and Federal Funding Reductions Impact Florida’s Youth
Across Florida, reductions in state and federal funding for youth programs have created new challenges for mentoring organizations. These shifts mean fewer resources for volunteer recruitment, match support, and college and career readiness programming. While our 11 local Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies continue to work tirelessly, the financial gap is growing—and so is the need.
These funding reductions directly impact:
- Youth waiting longer for a caring mentor
- Volunteer recruitment and background check capacity
- Match support for Bigs and Littles
- Essential programs that help kids build confidence and succeed in school
The Urgency: Hundreds of Florida Youth Are Waiting for Mentors
Across Florida, hundreds of children are on waitlists, hoping for a caring adult to guide, support, and inspire them. Some have been waiting for years. These young people are ready to benefit from strong, consistent mentoring relationships that can improve school performance, confidence, and long-term success.
Every moment counts—each day without a mentor is another day a child is missing the encouragement, guidance, and stability that a Big Brother or Big Sister provides. Giving Tuesday is an opportunity to step in and help ensure these children finally get matched with a caring adult who can make a lasting difference in their lives.
Giving Tuesday is a vital moment for supporters across Florida to come together and ensure that young people do not have to wait for the support they deserve.
Your Giving Tuesday Gift Makes a Statewide Impact
When you give to Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida, your donation provides flexible support that strengthens our statewide network and empowers all 11 local agencies. Your contribution helps ensure that agencies have the resources they need to operate effectively, grow programs, and expand outreach to communities across Florida.
Your Giving Tuesday gift helps to:
- Support agency operations and program development
- Expand outreach and community engagement
- Provide resources and training for staff and volunteers
- Strengthen initiatives that benefit youth across the state
Proven Impact of Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring
Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs deliver measurable results for youth across Florida. Key outcomes include:
- 96% of youth mentored are promoted to the next grade level
- 91% of youth say their Big helped them make better choices
- 99% of youth avoid the juvenile justice system
- BBBS Littles earn 15% more over their lifetime
These results show that consistent mentoring not only improves academic and behavioral outcomes, but also has lasting economic and life-long benefits for youth. Your Giving Tuesday support helps expand these proven programs to even more children waiting for a mentor.
Community-Focused, Nonpartisan Support for Florida’s Kids
Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida is nonpartisan and community-driven. We work closely with public and private partners while staying focused on one mission: to ignite the power and promise of youth through strong mentoring relationships. Our message remains the same—children need consistent support, and mentoring works.
How You Can Join the Statewide Effort
There are several meaningful ways to support Florida’s youth this Giving Tuesday:
- Give: Make a tax-deductible donation on our Giving Tuesday page.
- Volunteer: Become a Big and change a child’s life. Learn more at Become a Big.
- Share: Spread the word on social media and encourage friends to join the movement.
- Partner: Businesses can provide matching gifts, in-kind support, or volunteer opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my donation tax-deductible?
Yes. Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.
How does my donation help?
Your gift provides flexible support for Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida and our 11 local agencies, helping to strengthen operations, grow programs, and expand outreach to communities across the state. Unrestricted contributions allow us to invest in the areas of greatest need, ensuring every agency has the resources to operate effectively and serve more youth in meaningful ways.