The number one need identified by America's Promise, led by Colin Powell to help millions of at-risk youth, is a caring relationship with someone older who is a mentor, such as a Big Brother.

We have seen first-hand the impact that a Big Brother can make on a young life. The statistics are quite impressive. A child matched with a Big Brother is:

• 40% less likely to start using drugs,

• 27% less likely to start drinking,

• 52% less likely to skip a day of school,

• Less inclined to hit another individual.

At Big Brothers of Rhode Island, we provide activities for all our Little Brothers (whether assigned or unassigned) that will provide them with an enriching experience. A few examples of our activities are:

• Christmas Party,

• Bowling Party,

• Fishing Derby,

• Pawtucket Red Sox Baseball Game,

• Walk-a-Thon,

• Tickets to various sporting events.

While providing a Little Brother with a positive male role model is our main goal at Big Brothers of Rhode Island, we also provide each Mother, Little Brother, and Big Brother with three exceptional programs to help them face the many challenges in today's world:

     1.   Empower Training- Training on the Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse

     2.   Parenting Skills Training

     3.   Substance Abuse Prevention Training

A Big Brother = A friend, a mentor, and a role model.