FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast Celebrates Record Impact, Serving More Than 1,800 Youth and Delivering Transformative Outcomes in 2025–26
Nearly 1,900 volunteers contributed an estimated 265,000 hours to help youth achieve academic success, build resilience, and reach their full potential
SARASOTA, Fla. – July 23, 2026 – Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast (BBBS Sun Coast) announced its 2025–26 year-end outcomes, demonstrating the powerful impact of mentoring relationships and programming across its 10-county service area. Through the dedication of volunteers, families, community partners, and supporters, the organization served 1,816 youth through professionally supported mentoring relationships and achieved exceptional outcomes in education, workforce readiness, and youth development.
During the 2025–26 fiscal year, BBBS Sun Coast’s mentoring programs achieved:
· 99% of youth successfully graduated or advanced to the next grade level
· 100% of graduating seniors transitioned into postsecondary education, military service, or employment through key transition programs
· 98% of youth avoided risky behaviors
· 100% of youth remained arrest-free
· Nearly 1,900 volunteers contributed an estimated 265,000 hours of service
· Average mentoring relationships lasted more than two years, creating consistent and meaningful connections between youth and caring adults
“These outcomes represent what happens when communities come together around the belief that every young person has incredible potential,” said Kamala Martinez, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast. “Behind every number is a young person who has been encouraged by a caring adult mentor. We are proud of this year’s impact and look forward to serving even more youth in the year ahead through innovative programs like Resilient Youth, which will equip students with tools to build resilience, manage stress, and succeed.
BBBS Sun Coast’s impact extends to youth who face significant barriers to opportunity. Of the youth served:
· 82% qualified for subsidized lunch
· 57% were at or below the federal poverty level
· 64% came from single-parent households
Through programs including Community-Based Mentoring, Beyond School Walls, Big Futures, Reading Bigs, BBBS Sun Coast provides youth with the support, guidance, and relationships needed to succeed.
“Our data confirms what we see every day in the lives of the young people and mentors we serve — consistent relationships matter,” said Jeanie Baik, Vice President of Programs at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast. “A mentor’s encouragement, guidance, and presence can change the trajectory of a child’s life. The fact that 99% of youth achieved academic promotion or graduation and 100% of our graduating seniors successfully moved into their next chapter is a testament to the strength of our mentoring model and the commitment of our staff, volunteers, and community partners.”
As the organization expands, the need for caring adult mentors continues. Currently, hundreds of youth are waiting for the opportunity to be matched with a mentor who can provide encouragement, support, and friendship.
“Mentoring is one of the most powerful investments a community can make,” Martinez added. “When we invest in young people, we strengthen families and create a future where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast, become a mentor, or support youth mentoring programs, visit bbbssun.org.
About Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast
For more than 57 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast has helped young people realize their full potential through professionally supported, one-to-one mentoring relationships. By connecting youth with caring adult mentors, the organization empowers them to build confidence, achieve educational success, and develop the skills needed to thrive in school, work, and life.
Now the 10th largest Big Brothers Big Sisters agency in the nation, the organization continues to expand its reach and impact as one of the leading youth mentoring organizations in the country. In recognition of its continued growth and impact, the organization received the 2025 Growth Award from Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Learn more or get involved at bbbssun.org.
Media Contact: Vinnie Mascarenhas, VP Marketing & Communications, 941-488-4009 or vmascarenhas@bbbssun.org.