I am participating in the Bowl for Kids’ Sake fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta (BBBSMA) this year, because I am committed to helping children facing adversity succeed in school and in life. 

Last year, 92% of the children in the program came from low-income families, 81% qualified for free or reduced lunch programs at school, 74% lived in single-parent households and 44% had at least one parent who has been incarcerated.  Mentors work individually with children to overcome these challenges by actively promoting self-sufficiency and academic achievement.

In spite of these major risk factors, the impact of BBBSMA’s mentoring programs is extraordinary.  Of the children that participated in the program in 2015, 97% were promoted to the next grade, 94% increased their scholastic competence and 98% graduated from high school on time. Children in the program are less likely to engage in risky behaviors and 99% do not become involved in the juvenile justice system. 

I am proud to support this movement, which believes that all kids have value and the ability to succeed, regardless of their circumstances. Thank you for giving generously to support this life-changing program!