Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands (BBBSM) (bbbsmidlands.org) is calling on the Lincoln, Omaha, and Council Bluffs communities to step up and make a life-changing difference for local youth this National Mentoring Month. With over 100 youth currently waiting for mentors, the need has never been more urgent.
National Mentoring Month, an annual campaign created by MENTOR, highlights the power of mentorship and rallies new volunteers to join the movement. Across America, one in three kids grows up without a sustained, positive adult role model; a gap that BBBSM is working to close in its service area.
“Our mentoring programs have a proven, positive impact on young people, from reducing risky behaviors to improving academic and social outcomes,” said Nichole Turgeon, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands. “But we can’t do it without the support of our community. Right now, we have dozens of young people waiting for mentors. This is a crisis we must address together.”
While the impact of mentoring is clear, the gap between youth waiting and available volunteers continues to grow. BBBS’s National Mentoring Month campaign serves as a call to action to redefine what mentorship looks like. BBBSM also aims to dispel common misconceptions, emphasizing that mentorship doesn’t require extraordinary effort. Simple, consistent moments—sharing a slice of pizza, watching a movie, or going for a walk—can make a lasting difference in a young person’s life.
This National Mentoring Month, BBBSM encourages adults to volunteer as mentors. To learn more, become a mentor, or make a donation, visit bbbsmidlands.org or call (402) 330-2449. Stay connected on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn @bbbslincoln.