All youth achieve their potential
Years active: 40
Leadership: Gabriela Triguerio, Executive Director
Their story: For four decades, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Cruz County has been matching adult mentors with youth to support one-on-one relationships -- with more than 8,000 youth served since inception. The organization works with volunteer mentors, parents/guardians and other community members to help young people avoid risky behaviors, gain greater confidence and achieve their education - all with a goal of “igniting the power and promise of youth.”
Mentor relationships build and support self-confidence and self-esteem, the foundation of resilience. The powerful effects are life changing.
The pandemic magnified the inequities, mental health conditions, and trauma with which so many youths struggle. As we re-emerge, the need for the programs and relationships we support is more critical than ever.