At Big Brothers Big Sisters, we believe in the transformative power of one-to-one mentoring, but we also look to groundbreaking national research that reinforces what we’ve long known: these trusted relationships really make a difference.
Rigorous National Study Validates Mentorship Matters
A newly published, four-year randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluated BBBS’s Community-Based Mentoring programs and found significant long-term benefits for participating youth. The results are compelling:
- After 18 months, mentored youth were:
- 54% less likely to be arrested
- 41% less likely to engage in substance use
- At the four-year mark, sustained positive effects emerged:
- 42% lower likelihood of recurring substance use (18% vs. 31%)
- 30% lower likelihood of engaging in violence-related delinquency (30% vs. 43%)
- A 24% reduction in property-related delinquency, statistically significant though slightly diminished after wider testing adjustments
- No significant arrest rate differences persisted at four years, but notable gains were seen in mental health, including lower depressive symptoms and higher life satisfaction among mentored youth
Arnold Ventures’ Justin Milner and research leaders emphasized the strength of these results, noting that they provide powerful evidence for policymakers and communities to "make smarter decisions" and deepen investment in programs like BBBS.
Why This Matters for Dane County
These findings aren’t just national statistics, they affirm the critical impact of mentoring here in Dane County. Our local BBBS matches reflect the same spirit of one-to-one support, resilience-building, and opportunity creation.
What We’re Achieving Locally:
- Lasting Positive Outcomes
- Our Littles develop stronger self-esteem, better emotional well-being, and deeper community ties
- Strengthening Resilience
- The study shows that these mentoring relationships can serve as a protective force against delinquent behavior and mental health struggles for years
- A Call for Increased Support
- Nationwide findings highlight widespread volunteer and staffing shortages
How You Can Help Shape Brighter Futures
Building on these insights, here’s how our community can step up:
- Become a Big: Sign up to be a mentor and create a lasting impact.
- Spread the Word: Share this research to inspire others to give their time, resources, or encouragement.
- Invest in Proven Solutions: Funders and policymakers, this is your moment to support programs with demonstrated, long-term success.
For over 120 years nationally and 60 years locally, BBBS has championed the belief that every child deserves the chance to thrive, and now, thanks to rigorous evidence, we know it works. As Ginneh Baugh, Chief Impact Officer at Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, puts it, “one-to-one mentoring works,” reducing delinquency, improving mental health, and brightening lives.