By V.S. Santoni
NASHVILLE, TN — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Middle Tennessee (BBBSMT) traces its roots back to 1969 when a group of community leaders recognized the need for support among Middle Tennessee youth. Founded on the belief in the potential of every child, BBBSMT matches adult volunteers (“Bigs”) with youth (“Littles”) aged 6 through young adulthood. Operating across eight counties in Middle Tennessee, the organization aims to ignite the power and promise of youth through one-to-one mentoring relationships.
Recently, BBBSMT received recognition for its commitment to creating a healthy work culture through the Best Nonprofits to Work For award from The NonProfit Times. This accolade reflects the agency’s dedication to fostering a positive environment for its highly skilled professionals, who are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of citizens and leaders.
In Nashville, BBBSMT’s impact is profound. With the support of volunteers, partners, donors, and staff, the organization proudly serves 885 youth, positively impacting the lives of 1,770 individuals and their families. Events like the Big Appreciation event and participation in the Tennessee Titans’ draft party highlight the community engagement efforts. Moreover, the organization celebrates the graduation of 108 Littles and hosts the annual Big Breakfast to showcase its impact and raise funds for its mission.
Looking ahead, BBBSMT has developed a strategic framework to guide its work over the next three years. This framework focuses on securing funding, supporting staff, building partnerships, and recruiting more mentors to expand its reach. Additionally, the organization is launching the College Advancement Program (CAP) in partnership with local colleges, aiming to provide mentorship to college students during a crucial phase of their lives.
Upcoming events include participation in Nashville Pride to support LGBTQIA+ youth and the annual Big Breakfast fundraiser in November. With over 150 youth on the waiting list, BBBSMT emphasizes the urgent need for caring mentors, especially men of color, to step forward and make a difference in the lives of young people.
To learn more about becoming a mentor or supporting BBBSMT’s mission, visit www.mentorakid.org and follow @mentorakid on social media platforms. By giving their time and support, individuals can contribute to the positive development of youth and communities across Middle Tennessee.
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