Age range

Website: www.bbbseastbay.org

Mission/Goals: Big Brothers Big Sisters is a non-profit organization that has one purpose and goal: to provide friendship, emotional support, and guidance to youth through positive adult role models. "Big Brothers Big Sisters of the East Bay will build self-worth and confidence in at-risk children in Alameda and Contra Costa counties by supporting them in reaching their individual best through consistent relationships with caring and encouraging adults." BBBS of the East Bay's purpose is "to increase children's self -esteem and encourage them to pursue life-enriching opportunities." Children from single-parent and immigrant families are the primary, but not exclusive, focus.

Source(s): www.bbbseastbay.org

Type of Evaluation: Experimental.

Note: The evaluation reported here does not include the East Bay program.

Objective: To assess whether the program reduced antisocial activities, improved academic performance, improved family and peer relationships, improved self-esteem and increased cultural awareness.

Impact/Outcomes: The evaluation found that Big Brothers/Big Sisters participants were less likely to start using drugs and alcohol. Participants were less likely to hit someone, they had improved school attendance and performance, improved attitudes toward completing schoolwork, and improved relationships with family and friends. Participants were not more likely to have an improved sense of self-esteem or increased cultural awareness.

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