Staff Reports | Community Updates
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona is offering the results of a study on the transformative power of mentorship in shaping young people’s educational, economic, and social trajectories.
Conducted by leading researchers from Harvard University and the U.S. Department of Treasury, this first-of-its-kind study reveals how mentorship programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters can serve as a scalable solution to reduce socioeconomic disparities over time, according to a press release.
Rooted in 30 years of data, this study highlights real-world outcomes for youth in Big Brothers Big Sisters programs, including higher education achievement, stable employment, and financial well-being. The data shows:
• BBBS alumni are 20% more likely to attend college than their peers.
• Mentoring helps close economic gaps—participants see a 15% increase in lifetime earnings.
• The economic benefits extend to society, with increased tax revenues recouping the cost of mentoring within just seven years.
This study comes as BBBSAZ proudly marks 70 years of empowering youth in Maricopa and portions of Pinal Counties. Since its founding in 1955, BBBSAZ has served more than 65,000 children, operating on the belief that every child holds the potential to succeed and thrive in life.
“For seven decades, our mission has never wavered and this research shows our mission is making a difference in our community,” said Debbie Castillo-Smith, Interim CEO of BBBSAZ. “Mentorship is more than a program; it’s a strategy for long-term societal change. As we invest in mentoring, we’re investing in a future where every young person, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive and lead”
