More than 250 Kansas City kids are on waitlist for Big Brothers Big Sisters program

Transforming Lives: Big Brothers Big Sisters Empowers Kansas City Youth

In the heart of Kansas City, a remarkable organization is making a profound impact on the lives of children, one match at a time. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas City, a non-profit dedicated to mentoring youth, is the focus of a unique fundraising campaign that aims to support their vital work. Through the "Three Degree Guarantee" initiative, KCTV meteorologists are putting their weather predictions to the test, with each accurate forecast within three degrees earning for the organization.

Empowering Youth, One Mentor at a Time

Forging Unbreakable Bonds

The story of Sean Mitchell and his "big brother" Charles exemplifies the transformative power of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. At just 10 years old, Sean was paired with Charles, and the connection they forged has become a lifelong bond. "I consider Charles family now," Sean shares, recounting the countless moments they've shared, from playing catch to attending family weddings. The guidance and support Charles provided helped steer Sean in the right direction, setting him on a path to success.

Inspiring Academic and Athletic Achievements

Today, Sean is a college football player at William Jewel College and an intern at Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City. He credits his mentor, Charles, for much of his accomplishments. "If he wasn't in my life, I don't feel like I would be a college football player, I don't think I would be making the right decisions," Sean reflects. The program's ability to foster personal growth and unlock the potential of its participants is truly remarkable.

Addressing the Mentorship Gap

Despite the profound impact of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, there is a pressing need for more volunteers to step up and become mentors. Kristi Hutchison, the Chief Marketing Officer, notes that there are currently 264 children in Kansas City waiting to be matched with a "big." She emphasizes the constant challenge of finding enough volunteers to meet the demand, creating a "constant circle of kids wanting to be enrolled in the program but not enough volunteers to get them matched."

The Three Degree Guarantee: Fueling the Mission

The Three Degree Guarantee campaign aims to address this challenge by generating much-needed funds for the organization. Every day in August that KCTV meteorologists accurately predict the temperature within three degrees, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas City will receive . This innovative approach not only supports the organization's work but also engages the community in a unique and interactive way.

Investing in the Future

The funds raised through the Three Degree Guarantee will be crucial in the organization's efforts to match more "littles" with "bigs." By providing the necessary resources, the campaign will help expand the reach of the program, ensuring that more children in Kansas City have access to the transformative mentorship that can change the trajectory of their lives.

Answering the Call to Serve

For those interested in becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister, the process is straightforward. Individuals can visit the organization's website, www.bbbskc.org/be-a-big, to learn more and take the first step towards making a lasting impact on a child's life. The rewards of mentorship are immeasurable, as Sean's story so eloquently demonstrates.In a world where the challenges facing youth can seem daunting, the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas City stands as a beacon of hope. Through the power of mentorship and the generosity of the community, this organization is transforming lives, one match at a time, and paving the way for a brighter future for the children of Kansas City.