Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast just closed out its 2025–26 year with some of the most impressive numbers in the organization’s history. Nearly 1,900 volunteers gave a staggering 265,000 hours to support over 1,800 young people across ten counties, fueling actual change in education, resilience, and youth development.
Here’s what stands out from the year: almost every child in the program, 99% moved up a grade or graduated. Every senior who finished high school either continued into college, joined the military, or found a job. The numbers also show that 98% of youth avoided risky behaviors, and the program arrested none of them. These kinds of results speak volumes about what happens when a community comes together for its young people.
“Our impact this year is about much more than numbers. Behind every statistic, there’s a young person whose life is changing because an adult stepped in to care,” said Kamala Martinez, President and CEO of BBBS Sun Coast. “This is what happens when you believe in kids’ potential and back it up with action. We’re excited to keep growing next year, especially with programs like Resilient Youth, which helps students handle stress, build resilience, and succeed.”
BBBS Sun Coast focuses on youth who often face real challenges: 82% qualify for subsidized lunch, 57% live at or below the poverty line, and almost two-thirds come from single-parent households. Programs like Community-Based Mentoring, Beyond School Walls, Big Futures, and Reading Bigs exist to offer support, guidance, and hope.
Jeanie Baik, Vice President of Programs, sees the difference consistent relationships make. “You can see it in the kids every day — when a mentor shows up, listens, and supports, it truly changes a trajectory. The fact that nearly all our youth achieved promotion or graduation, and every graduating senior found their next step, shows the power of these connections and the dedication of our mentors and staff.”
Even as BBBS Sun Coast grows, the need for more mentors is clear. Hundreds of kids are still waiting for someone to believe in them and show up.
“Mentoring isn’t just helpful — it’s transformative for the entire community. Investing in young people strengthens families and sets the stage for a brighter future,” Martinez said.
For more on BBBS Sun Coast, to sign up as a mentor, or to support their work, visit bbbssun.org.
For 57 years and counting, BBBS Sun Coast has paired young people with caring mentors to help them realize their potential, find confidence, and succeed in school and beyond. The organization is now one of the top ten Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies in the country, and in 2025, earned the BBBS of America Growth Award. If you want to step up, learn more, or get involved, head to bbbssun.org.
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