Commending Big Brothers-Big Sisters of America, the oldest and largest youth mentoring organization in the United States, on its 120th anniversary and the role it has played in empowering millions of young people on a path to graduate with a plan for their future through mentorship that will last a lifetime.

Whereas, in 1904, Big Brothers—Big Sisters of America was founded as a positive disruption to society by making valuable mentorship the alternative to sending kids to the juvenile justice system; Whereas Big Brothers—Big Sisters of America now has more than 230 local agencies in over 5,000 communities in all 50 States and the District of Columbia to inspire and engage youth to achieve their full potential; Whereas Big Brothers—Big Sisters of America operates under the belief that inherent in every child is incredible potential, and therefore, establishes powerful connections through meaningful matches of volunteer mentors and young people from age 5 through young adulthood; Whereas, since its founding, Big Brothers—Big Sisters of America has served adult volunteers, young people, and families and built a strong network of 20,000,000 alumni and champions; Whereas mentoring is an evidence-based, effective method to support the emotional, social, physical, educational, and economic success of young people; Whereas Big Brothers—Big Sisters of America, through its efforts in communities nationwide, has significant impact on the ability of young people to meet various challenges, including around mental health, educational achievement, workforce development, and criminal violence prevention; Whereas 92 percent of youth in Big Brothers—Big Sisters of America programs feel a greater sense of belonging and view their mentor as a very important adult in their life; Whereas Big Brothers—Big Sisters of America has been supported by a dedicated network of volunteers, donors, and partners, who have generously contributed their time, resources, and expertise to further the organization’s mission; and Whereas Big Brothers—Big Sisters of America effectively raises significant private funding from individuals and corporate and foundation grants to leverage its Federal investment: Now, therefore, be it That the House of Representatives— (1) congratulates Big Brothers—Big Sisters of America for its work mentoring the young people of the United States and strengthening thousands of communities; (2) acknowledges the 120th anniversary of Big Brothers—Big Sisters of America and all of its achievements to date; (3) values the finding that access to a positive, sustained mentor can change the trajectory of a young person’s life; (4) supports Big Brothers—Big Sisters of America to continue and expand programs that support young people; and (5) pledges its ongoing commitment to make stronger the partnership between Big Brothers—Big Sisters of America and various Federal agencies and departments to serve an even greater number of young people.

Summary: This resolution acknowledges the 120th anniversary of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and congratulates the organization for its work mentoring the young people of the United States and strengthening thousands of communities.