Support Big Brothers Big Sisters of SW IL

I’m running the Belleville Half Marathon (Belleville, Illinois) this Saturday, September 24th to raise money for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois (BBBS). And I’m asking for your support.

I would truly value and appreciate any donations - of any amount - in support of this worthy cause and to inspire me to push through the 13.1 mile trek.

BBBS doesn’t “create” potential for children - I believe each child is born with the inherent potential to thrive in life. Instead, BBBS helps defend children’s potential by matching children facing adversity with safe one-to-one mentoring. 59% of the children BBBS serves in Southwestern Illinois live at or below the federal poverty level. 93% are from single-parent or non-traditional households (e.g. living with foster parents, grandparents, etc.). And over 70% of children served by BBBS identify as minorities.

I’m committed to working toward being a “potential defender” for the kids! And for the communities to which they can contribute in the future! BBBS's results are community-changing. In 2021, 100% of the children served (i.e., "Littles") graduated high school. 91% of Littles had improvement in their future aspirations as well as the quality of their relationships. 82% of Littles even had improvement in their grades at school. Matching Littles with their BBBS mentors ("Bigs") isn't free, however. Money raised in support of BBBS will go to recruit new Bigs, perform background checks and match Bigs with the right Little for them, as well as to provide ongoing support to help make matches successful and long-lasting.

I hope you will consider making a contribution to support BBBS through this fundraiser. It makes a concrete difference to the children supported by BBBS!

Thank you in advance for your consideration and support,

Nate