While the NFL begins drafting its next generation of superstar players, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado (BBBSC) is committed to recruiting mentors, especially men of color, to serve as role models and support Colorado youth.
In Colorado, nearly 400 local kids – called “Littles” – are waiting to be paired with a mentor – called “Bigs”. BBBSC launched The Big Draft campaign where they hope to recruit 60 Bigs in 60 days. At BBBSC, youth are put in the center of a supportive ecosystem, which results in a greater sense of belonging and helps youth build coping skills.
Former NFL Broncos Offensive Tackle and champion of Super Bowl 50, Ryan Harris, is a BBBSC Alumni Big. “I could have not imagined the impact BBBSC would have on my life and my Little Brother Jacquari,” Harris said. “I couldn’t have been more grateful at the time, and still to this day, for BBBSC for putting us together.”
Studies show that children who have role models are more likely to do better in school, have better connections with family and friends, and are less likely to be involved in risky b
ehaviors. According to 2020 Youth and Child Outcomes Survey Results, 92% of Littles have plans to graduate high school and attend college and 90% of Littles see their Big as a very important adult in their life.
Alumni Big Larry was matched with Alumni Little Mustafa for five years. Mustafa and his family moved but Larry expressed the importance of getting good grades and traveled to California to attend Mustafa’s graduation. Soon after, Mustafa moved back to Colorado to attend college and recently graduated from CU Boulder majoring in sociology and hopes to work with children. To this day, the two stay in touch. “The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado organization gave me the opportunity to make a difference,” Larry shared while reflecting on his experience as a Big. “Their training, guidance, and support helped me to be a better Big. There is no doubt that Mustafa and I will remain matched for life.”
Be part of the 60 Bigs in 60 Days recruitment efforts and mentor a youth in Colorado. The Big Draft campaign will run through the last week of April when the NFL Draft begins. To learn more about The Big Draft and how to become a Big, visit https://www.biglittlecolorado.org/the-big-draft.