Big Brothers Big Sisters Columbia Northwest

• 82% of program youth live in low-income households
• 59% are being raised by a single parent (56% by single mothers)
• 28% have an incarcerated parent or family member

Our work is proactive. Supporting at-risk youth during their formative years creates a clear pathway to graduation that includes a plan for their future. This leads to more stable, healthy, and productive adults contributing to society. The results of our program speak for themselves:

• Over 95% of youth graduate high school, compared to the statewide graduation rate of 81%. 
• Over 90% avoid risky behavior (elaborated below).
• Over 75% feel a strong sense of belonging among peers.
• Finally, thanks to a recently published, long-term study we know BBBS graduates earn 15% more lifetime income and close 2/3 of the economic inequality gap on average