The agency is recognized for outstanding team leadership in providing one-to-one mentoring programming for local youth.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Maine (BBBSSM) has been recognized as a 2021 Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) Quality Award Winner. Every year, BBBS agencies are recognized by BBBSA Nationwide Leadership Council, made up of local Big Brothers Big Sisters agency leaders and board members, for excellence in the organization’s signature one-to-one youth mentoring program. Out of approximately 230 Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies across the country, BBBSSM is one of 53 organizations to receive this top honor.
“I am so proud of our program staff and our volunteer mentors. Their commitment and passion to the youth in our program is inspiring and their hard work leads to a brighter future for youth in Southern Maine”, said Nicole Avery, BBBBSM Executive Director. “This is the first time BBBSSM has been recognized with a national award in its 27-year history, however, it won’t be the last. We are well positioned to support children and adolescents as they face increased levels of anxiety, stress, and isolation. We are working toward expanding our programs in order to serve more families and more youth in the coming years. We hope the community joins us in that work.”
For over 100 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has been dedicated to advancing equity, impact, and growth across the organization, making a lasting impact on the lives of young people. Today, the organization creates and supports one-to-one mentoring relationships helping build self-confidence and emotional well-being, and empowering young people on a path to graduate with a plan for their futures and a mentor whose impact can last a lifetime.
“Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies across the country are finding innovative ways to serve young people and strengthen communities,” said BBBSA President and CEO Artis Stevens. “We congratulate these agencies for leading the way in transforming mentorship for our communities, and most importantly, our young people.”
The Quality Award Winners were formally recognized at the 2022 Big Brothers Big Sisters “Bigger Together” National Conference, held June 19 through June 22 in Indianapolis.
