Big Brothers Big Sisters of Muscatine County has received the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) Growth Award for program excellence in 2024. Every year, the BBBSA Nationwide Leadership Council, made up of local agency leaders and board members, selects agencies for excellence in the organization’s signature 1-to-1 youth mentoring program. Out of more than 230 agencies across the country, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Muscatine is one of 40 organizations to receive this top honor.
The Growth Award recognizes agencies that have demonstrated strategic growth in the number of mentors (“Bigs”) and youth (“Littles”) matched through the program, year over year. In the past year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Muscatine served 174 youth and grown its local services by two percent. Muscatine has been recognized two years in a row.
“I am incredibly proud of our board and staff for their dedication to expanding mentorship opportunities for young people in Muscatine, Cedar and Louisa Counites.” Lindsey Phillips, Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Muscatine, said. “Their commitment to growing our matches ensures that even more children have access to life-changing relationships. This achievement reflects the power of mentorship and the impact we can create together in building a brighter future for our community.”
For over 100 years, BBBSA has been dedicated to advancing equity, impact, and growth across the organization, making a lasting impact on the lives of young people. Today, the organization creates and supports one-to-one mentoring relationships, helping build self-confidence and emotional well-being and empowering young people on a path to graduate with a plan for their futures and a mentor whose impact can last a lifetime.
“Growth isn’t just about numbers — it’s about increasing the reach and impact of mentorship,” Artis Stevens, President and CEO of BBBSA, said. “Big Brothers Big Sisters of Muscatine County has demonstrated an incredible commitment to expanding opportunities for young people who need us most by matching more volunteers and serving more youth than ever before. Their efforts to engage diverse mentors reflect their deep belief that every young person deserves a champion in their corner. We celebrate their leadership and the lasting impact they’re creating.”
Big Brothers Big Sisters Muscatine serves Muscatine, Louisa, and Cedar counties in Iowa. For more information visit bbbsmuscatine.org or bebignow.org. You can also visit the local Facebook page at BBBSMUSCATINE.