“I chose this journey because as an adult I have always wanted to be the person I needed most as a child. I am a personal testimony of the
BBBSC community including Alumni, whose life reflects a commitment to social justice. BBBSC was founded in 1918 as an innovative, empowering alternative to the juvenile justice system. Since then, the organization has been making meaningful, monitored mentor matches between adult volunteers- Bigs - and youth – Littles - for over a century. As the needs of young individuals evolve, BBBSC acknowledges the significance of adapting its programs to further honor, champion, and provide culturally relevant experiences for youth at every age and stage of their lives. BBBSC also continues to recognize the beauty and importance of authentic, meaningful cross-cultural, and multi-generational mentor relationships to promote social change, acceptance, cultural exchange, and empathy. Understanding that we still had work to do, BBBSC has embarked on an ambitious journey to diversify its pool of mentors, programs, and community partnerships to expand its reach and relevance to impact even more young lives. Quote from Elycia. “Born with every obstacle stacked against me, my childhood mirrors that of the many the youth we serve. With the support of mentors who looked like me, or programs and people who saw me as not broken but full of untapped potential, I am a first-generation high school and college graduate. I am also the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award in Mentoring. In 2021, I was named the first African American CEO in the history of BBBSC. I also understand the importance of cultural competency and relevancy of programs so that they feel inclusive and achieve the best possible outcomes for those served. While change and growth is not easy. It is necessary. BBBSC is doing the work, and it is making a difference.” Reflecting on the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic and the racial reckoning of 2020-2021, BBBSC understood the critical need to prioritize the mental health and well-being of youth, and flexibility in programming to meet young people where they are. With a steadfast commitment to Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) principles, BBBSC has placed these values at the forefront of its mission.
power of mentoring.” -Elycia Cook, CEO BBBSC
“My life is different because of my mentor,” Robert shared looking back at his time as a Little at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado (BBBSC) from 1993-1997. Robert is one of many who have been impacted by the program. “I am a huge supporter of BBBSC,” Robert shared. “Because I am a product of what happens when a caring adult provides a positive relationship over time.” Today, Robert serves as a Director of Diversity, Health Equity, and Inclusion right here in Colorado and was the recipient of the BBBSC inaugural Community JEDI Award (Justice, Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion). Awarded in 2022, this is one of many intentional promises to celebrate the beauty of diversity and honor members of the
BBBSC Vice President of Programs Polica Houston introducing Aurora Community College President Dr. Mordecai Brownlee at the 2024 Big Futures Program Kickoff (Photo: BBBSC)
28 The Acumen
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