About
WHO WE ARE
Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of California works to increase resources and create opportunities that sustain and grow program services at each of our 14 locations that span our 58 counties, from Humboldt to Inland Counties to San Diego.
We believe that all young people are born with potential, it is opportunity that is not distributed equally.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of California is the bridge that brings together potential and opportunity through mentorship.
OUR PURPOSE
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of California (BBBS-CA), our purpose is simple yet powerful: to ignite caring, connected communities where every young person has the opportunity to thrive.
As the statewide association, we support and strengthen the life-changing mentoring programs offered by 14 local Big Brothers Big Sisters affiliates — serving communities from Humboldt County to San Diego, from coastal towns to inland valleys. Each affiliate is deeply committed to creating safe, supportive, and empowering relationships between caring adult mentors and at-promise youth.
Together, we are shaping the next generation of leaders, helping children succeed academically, build emotional resilience, and grow into thriving, engaged members of their communities.
HOW DO WE WORK:
BBBS-CA exists to make sure every local affiliate has the tools, resources, and visibility they need to grow their impact. We do this through three key pillars: Advocacy, Professional Development, and Fund Development.
We believe mentorship is one of the most effective ways to break cycles of poverty, disengagement, and crime — while opening doors to opportunity.
Across California, we work with elected officials, corporations, and community leaders to champion mentorship as a proven pathway to social and economic mobility.
Each year, we organize Advocacy Day in Sacramento, where agency leaders and board members share local impact stories directly with lawmakers.
Our statewide priorities focus on:
Well-being: Supporting social-emotional health and learning.
Educational Success: Improving academic engagement and achievement.
Prevention: Reducing risk and breaking the cycle of crime.
College & Career Readiness: Building the workforce of tomorrow.
BBBS-CA strengthens the capacity of local agencies by investing in the people who make mentorship possible.
Each year, we host a statewide conference that brings together staff, executives, and board members.
Trainings cover everything from program quality and reporting to technology, fundraising, and leadership development.
These gatherings also create space for affiliates to share best practices and learn from each other’s successes, ensuring that every young person across California benefits from the best possible mentoring experience.
We help unlock resources so affiliates can focus on what matters most — serving more children.
BBBS-CA connects affiliates to state and federal funding opportunities.
When statewide funding becomes available, we serve as the lead applicant and distribute resources equitably to local programs.
By leveraging our collective strength, we expand the reach and sustainability of youth mentoring across California.
Mentorship changes lives — not just for youth, but for entire communities. By supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of California, you’re helping:
At-promise youth gain confidence, skills, and opportunities.
Communities build stronger connections through volunteerism.
The state develop a future workforce that is prepared, resilient, and inspired.
When we come together as a statewide movement, we can ensure that every child in California has a mentor in their corner.