Be The One

We believe every child is born with innate potential.
It only needs defending.

WHAT ARE ACEs?

The children and teenagers who come through our doors are usually considered at-risk, meaning they are less likely to transition successfully into adulthood due to being exposed to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). ACEs are stressful or negative events that occur in childhood which can significantly impair mental and physical health over the entire lifespan. Consequently, the CDC has declared the negative effects of ACEs a national health problem.

The reality is that too many of our children today are not getting enough of the consistent adult bonding and guidance they need to thrive and succeed in life. And the less they get these basic needs met, the more difficult their lives usually become, if not at first, then later in adulthood.

HOW CAN MENTORING COMBAT THE EFFECTS OF ACEs?

Research says it only takes ONE, consistent, supportive relationship with an adult to protect a child’s ability to learn, make positive choices and thrive.

  1. Supportive adults can help protect and buffer children from toxic stress.
  2. Supportive adults can help children heal and build resiliency.
  3. Supportive adults can reduce levels of hormones present in children and as a result, reduce the impact of trauma.

Source: changingmindsnow.org, via the National Mentoring Partnership.

WHAT IS BE THE ONE?

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lehigh Valley creates ONE to ONE mentoring matches for kids who want to realize their full potential, but may need additional support to get there.

When a child can rely on ONE supportive adult, it clears the path to their biggest possible future. And matching kids with caring adults is the ONE thing we have done for decades.

Our BE THE ONE campaign is an urgent call to action: JOIN US.

BE THE ONE to help defend a child’s potential today.
Volunteer, Partner, or Donate.