Big Brothers Big Sisters

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Executive Director's MessageAlthough all non-profit leaders are predicting lean times in the wake of the current financial meltdown, we at CBSBB are looking at this crisis as an opportunity to tell our story. CBSBB has demonstrated financial stability for much of its 100+ year history. Like many non-profits, we are being challenged by the downturn in the global financial markets ; but we are particularly affected in NYC, since the local economy is so closely tied to those markets. Bottom line-although the economy is bad, people still give to projects that have vision and that make a difference!As we inform our constituents of our current status both fiscally and programmatically, we are taking all the necessary steps to ensure the agency's continued stability. The good news is that in the past year we gained significant multi-year major gift contributions, engaged several new funders from the foundation sector and raised significant funds for our Capital Campaign to help ensure the agency's future. We also have added five phenomenal Board of Trustee Members to our family! This is an important time in CBSBB history - the past merger had greatly increased numbers of individuals served. Our staff is exceptional ; the programs are unique and solid ; and we seek to continue to expand on our past successes.In the past year, CBSBB has significantly enhanced its mentoring, counseling, and skill-based program offerings to serve an increased number of at-risk youth and families, regardless of race, ethnicity, or religious affiliation. A total of 1, 238 individuals utilized our services in 2008! Our unique integrated program model and gender-based services, revitalized administrative structure, and expanded community outreach capacity have made CBSBB a distinguished leader in the social service arena. We have become an expert voice on the application of the family-systems model.Specifically we have given services to over 500 boys and girls through our skill-based programs. We have increased the number of males participating in our programs by over 36%! Boy's skill-based programs are especially unique in their focus on prevention ( preventing violence against women, delaying early fatherhood ). We have launched our new Workforce Development Program securing internships at various establishments including Columbia University, Entwistle and Cappucci Law Firm and Bellet Construction Company and begun a new collaboration with Wal-Mart Company.CBSBB has wonderful programs that have a proven track record. Funded by the Altman Foundation, we have a five-year independent program evaluation, that proves the overall improvement rates of girls, boys and families participating in CBSBB programs are significantly higher than similar programs nationwide. The average length of mentoring matches is 3.4 years ; and the overall frequency of contact between participant and the agency was 8 contacts per month. In addition, the transparency of our agency has made us attractive to both volunteers and funders. A nonprofit is only as strong as its base- and we have a very committed staff and board of directors. As we gather critical data in order to fine tune "our brand" we invite you to join us in seeking the tools we need to meet future challenges. We gratefully acknowledge and thank everyone for their support of our critical work.