House Resolution No. [insert number] proposes to designate September 2025 as Big Brothers Big Sisters Youth Mentoring Month in Michigan. This resolution highlights the significant role that Big Brothers Big Sisters, a nonprofit organization established in 1904, has played in supporting youth through one-on-one mentoring relationships. Michigan has a rich history with the organization, having hosted its first national conference in 1917 and currently housing eleven local agencies that serve communities statewide. The resolution emphasizes the growing need for mentors, as many children are waiting to be matched with trusted adults who can provide guidance and support.
The resolution also underscores the positive impact of mentoring on youth, citing research that shows participants in Big Brothers Big Sisters programs are less likely to engage in risky behaviors and more likely to succeed academically and socially. It notes that those involved in the program experience significant benefits, including reduced likelihood of drug and alcohol use and improved school attendance. September is designated as a time to honor mentors and raise awareness about the importance of positive role models in shaping future leaders. The resolution concludes by expressing appreciation for the ongoing efforts of Big Brothers Big Sisters and its affiliates in serving Michigan's youth and families.