Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) is marking its 120th anniversary with two powerful additions to its mission. Cynthia Erivo and Ava DuVernay have joined the organization’s “Game Changers” team to shine a brighter light on youth mentorship. Their goal aligns with BBBSA’s new vision: reaching 10 million more children with life-changing guidance and support.
Celebrating 120 Years of Youth Mentorship
Big Brothers Big Sisters has helped young people for more than a century. The group focuses on one-on-one mentorship that supports better grades, stronger confidence, and healthier choices. It now serves more than 5,000 communities across all 50 states.
To honor the organization’s 120th year, BBBSA named Erivo and DuVernay as new Game Changers. The role recognizes influential people who use their voices to lift young minds. Their presence helps remind the world that mentorship is still one of the strongest tools for changing lives.
Actress and singer Cynthia Erivo shared her belief in the mission. “Every young person deserves a champion that can see the good in them,” she said. “When someone sees a young person’s potential, everything is possible.”
Why Erivo and DuVernay Matter for This Mission
Leaders at BBBSA say both women bring star power and deep care for community. Ginneh Baugh, the organization’s Chief Impact Officer, explained that mentorship is rooted in BBBSA’s history. She also praised what Erivo and DuVernay add to the effort.
“You see both their stardom and their substance,” Baugh said. She noted that the pair bring lived experience, strong values, and a clear desire to uplift others. Their voices help redefine what mentorship can look like for today’s young people.
Research shows that more than 10 million youth live in “opportunity deserts.” These places lack supportive adults, useful networks, and resources. Many of these young people also face mental health challenges and limited chances to move upward. BBBSA wants to break these barriers through intentional mentorship.
A Long Legacy of Protecting and Guiding Youth
BBBSA was created to offer young people a path outside the juvenile justice system. The goal has always been simple: give each child someone who believes in them. Baugh explained that the organization was built on people stepping forward to support youth. She believes this moment with Erivo and DuVernay continues that legacy.
The Game Changers initiative allows leaders and creatives to share their stories, connect with communities, and inspire more people to mentor. With the addition of Erivo and DuVernay, new mentees can expect even stronger support and more meaningful connections.
A New Vision: Reaching 10 Million More Children
BBBSA is also launching a bold plan called One Big Vision, a five-point roadmap to deliver mentorship to 10 million additional kids. This push was highlighted at The BIG Benefit, held on November 19. The event celebrated the anniversary and honored major changemakers, including Bozoma Saint John, Roger Goodell, Bob Pittman, and Harvey Schwartz.
The expansion shows the organization’s commitment to building stronger communities. It also signals a powerful message: mentorship still has the ability to change the future. With Erivo and DuVernay now part of the effort, BBBSA hopes to reach more hearts, more homes, and more children who deserve support.
