Photos courtesy of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona (BBBSAZ), in a partnership with the NFL’s Inspire Change initiative, announced the Big Draft campaign, a focused effort to enlist volunteers as mentors to youth in Maricopa County. Coinciding with the NFL Draft, the campaign draws inspiration from the sports world to recruit a new class of mentors, or “Bigs,” to support the organization’s mission of reducing the number of children, or “Littles,” on its waiting list, which currently stands at 200.

In the United States, one in three children grows up without the presence of a stable, positive adult figure in their lives. This absence has contributed to an ever-expanding gap in mentorship availability, exacerbated by common misconceptions about the time commitment and qualifications necessary to be a mentor.

“Today, children face tremendous challenges, but through effective, long-term mentoring, BBBSAZ can help make a positive and measurable difference in their lives,” says Laura Capello, president and CEO of BBBSAZ. “We depend on generosity of volunteers in our community who can provide guidance and support to the youth that desperately need it.”

The Big Draft campaign aims to change perceptions about mentorship and underscore the significance of everyday interactions that can profoundly impact a young person’s life. As part of this initiative, BBBSAZ will host an NFL Draft Watch Party on April 25, at their Phoenix office located at 1615 E. Osborn Rd. The event, starting at 5 p.m., will feature complimentary food provided by The Habit Burger Grill, beverages, games, and the chance for prospective volunteers to connect with others in the community who share a commitment to making a difference. This informal gathering offers an ideal setting for individuals interested in becoming a volunteer to have their questions answered.

The first 50 individuals to RSVP and attend the event will be rewarded with a BBBS-branded jersey. For more information, visit bbbsaz.org/volunteer.