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Groundbreaking new research proves the far-reaching impact of BBBS mentoring programs—fueling real growth not only in our Bigs and Littles, but across families, communities, the economy, and society as a whole. We're proud to be a catalyst for lasting change.
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YEAR IN REVIEW
In 2024, the efforts of our staff, donors, partners, sponsors, and Bigs resulted in 434 local youth, or Littles, being matched with dedicated adult mentors, Bigs. BBBS continues to strive to expand our reach throughout Southeast Michigan, with the hope of finding more Bigs for the Littles currently on our waitlist. Our commitment to support these relationships was demonstrated, in part, by the creation of a new school-based program site at Ypsilanti Middle School in Washtenaw County. Additionally, and, in partnership with Lawrence Technological University, BBBSSEM re established programming at Southfield's McIntyre Elementary School in Oakland County, where Bigs are able to support and engage with their Littles at school.
Throughout last year, we hosted or facilitated over 50 events, offering diverse activities, including flag football, Detroit Tigers Game Day for Kids, a robotics and coding workshop with community partner, Ascent Cloud, a vision board night, trips to the DIA and Charles H. Wright Museum in Detroit, a river clean up event in Trenton and and Macy's holiday shopping trips, among many others. We continue to build out our activity offerings for our Bigs and Littles using REACH guidelines: recreation, education, arts, community and health/wellness, as we strive to ensure a robust range of interests, learning experiences, and cultures are represented.
Since the merger of BBBS Metro Detroit with BBBS Washtenaw County in August 2023, BBBS of Southeast Michigan has continued to provide life-changing programs for kids across our 4 county service area of Macomb, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw and Wayne counties. Under the leadership of Jennifer Spitler, LMSW, our President and CEO, we continue to build on the success of our merged organizations. By coming together and combining the unique strengths of each county we serve, we are better equipped to support the hundreds of young people in our service region waiting for mentors.
Having been established over 100 years ago, the work of BBBS remains urgent today. Many of our youth are still catching up from the COVID-19 Pandemic. They lost loved ones, their reading and math scores remain below previous annual levels, they feel isolated and lack a sense of connection or belonging. There has been an increase in youth suicide rates and reported mental health struggles. At BBBS, we work directly with Littles, Bigs, and their families to continue alleviating these barriers, one child at a time.
That is why, at BBBSSEM, we focus on pragmatic, quality metrics that promote longer and stronger matches, while increasing positive long-term outcomes for young people. Research shows that these relationships lead to better grades, higher graduation rates, and reduced crime rates. Additionally, an exciting new study from BBBS of America and Harvard University researchers, in conjunction with the US Treasury Department, indicates that BBBS mentored youth are 20% more likely to attend college and earn 15% more over the course of their lifetime. In fact, being a BBBS Little reduces the socioeconomic gap by two-thirds! Since every dollar invested in BBBS mentoring pays for itself within 7 years, our program creates sustained economic benefits for both the youth we serve and the shared communities where we live and work. Your continued support allows us to continue our work in making a tangible difference in Southeast Michigan.
We owe our success to the unwavering support of our employees, donors, volunteers, and corporate and community partners.
We owe our success to the unwavering support of our employees, donors, volunteers, and corporate and community partners. When we work together, It Takes Little To Be Big!
As we look forward to the future, we are grateful for your unwavering commitment. Together, we are changing lives and building a stronger, more connected community. Thank you for being a vital part of our journey.
Throughout last year, we hosted or facilitated over 50 events, offering diverse activities, including flag football, Detroit Tigers Game Day for Kids, a robotics and coding workshop with community partner, Ascent Cloud, a vision board night, trips to the DIA and Charles H. Wright Museum in Detroit, a river clean up event in Trenton and and Macy's holiday shopping trips, among many others. We continue to build out our activity offerings for our Bigs and Littles using REACH guidelines: recreation, education, arts, community and health/wellness, as we strive to ensure a robust range of interests, learning experiences, and cultures are represented.
Since the merger of BBBS Metro Detroit with BBBS Washtenaw County in August 2023, BBBS of Southeast Michigan has continued to provide life-changing programs for kids across our 4 county service area of Macomb, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw and Wayne counties. Under the leadership of Jennifer Spitler, LMSW, our President and CEO, we continue to build on the success of our merged organizations. By coming together and combining the unique strengths of each county we serve, we are better equipped to support the hundreds of young people in our service region waiting for mentors.
Having been established over 100 years ago, the work of BBBS remains urgent today. Many of our youth are still catching up from the COVID-19 Pandemic. They lost loved ones, their reading and math scores remain below previous annual levels, they feel isolated and lack a sense of connection or belonging. There has been an increase in youth suicide rates and reported mental health struggles. At BBBS, we work directly with Littles, Bigs, and their families to continue alleviating these barriers, one child at a time.
That is why, at BBBSSEM, we focus on pragmatic, quality metrics that promote longer and stronger matches, while increasing positive long-term outcomes for young people. Research shows that these relationships lead to better grades, higher graduation rates, and reduced crime rates. Additionally, an exciting new study from BBBS of America and Harvard University researchers, in conjunction with the US Treasury Department, indicates that BBBS mentored youth are 20% more likely to attend college and earn 15% more over the course of their lifetime. In fact, being a BBBS Little reduces the socioeconomic gap by two-thirds! Since every dollar invested in BBBS mentoring pays for itself within 7 years, our program creates sustained economic benefits for both the youth we serve and the shared communities where we live and work. Your continued support allows us to continue our work in making a tangible difference in Southeast Michigan.
We owe our success to the unwavering support of our employees, donors, volunteers, and corporate and community partners.
We owe our success to the unwavering support of our employees, donors, volunteers, and corporate and community partners. When we work together, It Takes Little To Be Big!
As we look forward to the future, we are grateful for your unwavering commitment. Together, we are changing lives and building a stronger, more connected community. Thank you for being a vital part of our journey.
Jennifer Spitler, LMSW, President and CEO |
Jehan Crump-Gibson, Board Chair |
CONGRATULATIONS BIGS OF THE YEAR!
BIG OF THE YEAR: KAYLEEMeet Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan's (BBBSSEM) Match of the Year: Big Sister Kaylee and Little Sister Passion. Since being paired in March 2023, they’ve shared nearly two years of growth, adventure, and connection.
From library visits that turned Passion’s dislike for reading into a love of books to trying fun activities like dancing in the snow and more, their relationship exemplifies the life-changing impact of mentorship. Also, this dynamic duo might look familiar—that's because they were BBBSSEM's Match of the Month in December 2024, and their bond has only grown stronger since. This match is more than weekly outings—it’s a journey of transformation. Passion’s mom, Monica, describes the profound changes: “Passion has grown so much. She’s more confident, listens better, and is an incredible big sister at home.” Kaylee’s impact extends beyond their match as she actively supports the BBBSSEM mission, organizing donations and adopting families in need. Together, their bond demonstrates how a single mentor can inspire independence, foster joy, and create meaningful change. |
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BIG OF THE YEAR: JAWAYNEBig Brother JaWayne and Little Brother Zacchaeus “Zay” are celebrated as 2025’s Match of the Year for their extraordinary two-year bond.
Their connection has flourished through adventures like creating habitats for tadpoles, exploring Zay’s love of animals, library adventures, and tackling goals like scavenger hunts and learning to garden. Zay’s mom, Lauren, proudly shares that he’s become more confident, outgoing, and willing to embrace new experiences—all thanks to JaWayne’s support and encouragement. JaWayne and Zay’s relationship is a powerful testament to the life-changing impact of mentorship. JaWayne often gives Zay the reigns when it comes to deciding what they do together and supports him through research and exploration. But JaWayne’s impact goes beyond their weekly outings. As a dedicated volunteer recruiter, speaker, and Ambassador Board member, he is championing the BBBSSEM mission, ensuring more children like Zay have access to positive role models. Their story is a reminder that a single mentor can ignite a lifetime of growth, joy, and confidence in a child—all while deepening their own sense of purpose and fulfillment. |
OUR BIGS
We are so incredibly grateful for the time and talent of these individuals. We know that without them stepping up, stepping in and walking along side their Little, as they navigate this changing world together, that we would accomplish very little. They are the backbone of our organization and a million thank you's could not express the depth of our appreciation.
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What We Do and How We Do ItAt Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan, our belief in being "Bigger Together" drives everything we do. By collaborating with our community, we identify at-risk youth who need or want a mentor. We create safe, high-quality, and long-lasting relationships that inspire potential for youth throughout our community. Our staff supports these connections by developing success roadmaps and developing goals with parents, youth, and mentors, ensuring every match thrives.
MENTORING IMPACT |
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Our community-based mentoring program pairs Bigs and Littles that are in the same community. Bigs and Littles spend time around Southeast Michigan, engaging in activities they enjoy while working towards personal achievement and positive character development. Bigs commit to two or three outings per month with their Little, building strong bonds and collective growth through shared experiences.
The site-based mentoring program further demonstrates our commitment to being bigger together. A BBBS staff person facilitates site-based programs where Bigs and Littles meet at the youth’s metro-Detroit area school. Each Little is paired with one volunteer from October until the end of the school year. Matches meet biweekly for about 15 sessions during lunchtime or after school, participating in special events, educational presentations, job shadowing, or listening to guest speakers. By working together, we create meaningful connections that transform lives. Our collective efforts ensure that each youth has the opportunity to realize their full potential. At BBBSSEM, we are truly Bigger Together. |
2024 EVENTS IN REVIEW
Big Draft - April 25, 2024 at Comerica Park in Detroit
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The NFL Draft was a 2024 highlight for both the city of Detroit and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan. On April 25th, BBBSSEM hosted football fans and champions of youth mentoring at Comerica Park for The Big Draft Watch Party. The event included celebrity appearances from Pro-Football Hall of Famer, Will Shields, 1984 Detroit Tigers World Series Winning Pitcher, Dave Rozema, University of Michigan / NFL football star Jamie Morris and the Detroit Tigers mascot, Paws! Guests enjoyed ballpark fare, inspiring words from Bigs and Littles and come-and-go access to all the exciting NFL Draft activities in downtown Detroit. Through a BBBS of America and Old Spice partnership, one of BBBSSEM’s Littles, Leo, had the opportunity to interview University of Alabama star and potential top draft pick, Terrion Arnold. Leo was a natural! Later that night, the Detroit Lions selected Terrion Arnold in the first round of the Draft!
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Special Thanks to our Sponsors
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BIG BUFFET SPONSOR
Amazon BIG GAMES SPONSOR Anonymous BIG DRINK SPONSOR Ally Bank The Ewie Group Old Spice |
BIG PHOTOBOOTH SPONSOR
Howard & Howard Strategic iQ Verizon CFCU Amwins HAP CareSource Meridian Humanetics Robert and Kellie Milligan |
HUDDLE UP CREW
Ascension St. John's Hospital BIG MATCH SPONSOR Traction Consulting BIG BIG SPONSOR Comcast First Independence Bank AON |
Grow a Little - May 21 2024 at The Community House in Birmingham
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In May 2024, BBBSSEM hosted the Grow a Little Breakfast event at The Community House in Birmingham. Sponsors, Table Captains and their guests enjoyed a delicious hot breakfast and learned about BBBS’ mission. BBBSSEM identified ways that individuals and companies might engage with our mission, and the transformative impact they can have on the youth we serve. The keynote speaker, Sherisse M. Butler, Senior Vice President and Executive Director of City Year Detroit, inspired the crowd with stories about the critical role mentoring played in her life and in her work. BBBS Big, Terrance, brought everything into perspective when he shared what he’s learned by becoming a Big. A beautiful morning of connection and building relationships!
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Special Thanks to our Sponsors
BIG PRESENTING SPONSOR
Ally Financial
BIG CORPORATE SPONSOR
EY
Anonymous
Ally Financial
BIG CORPORATE SPONSOR
EY
Anonymous
Golf Fore Kids’ Sake - June 17 at TPC Golf in Dearborn
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The sun was HOT at the 2024 Golf Fore Kids’ Sake event, held June 17th at the beautiful and historic TPC Golf Course in Dearborn. Sponsors, guests, Bigs and their families gathered on the Jack Nicklaus designed course for 18 holes of fun and to support Big Brothers Big Sisters. The tournament kicked off with a special appearance and warm welcome by former offensive tackle for the Detroit Lions and local favorite, Lomas Brown. After the shotgun start, golfers were off and competing for prizes in the longest drive, closest to the pin and hole in one contests. A few gofers even tried their hand at beating the pro! As golfers finished their game, everyone gathered in the clubhouse for refreshment and to collect their prizes. With both sponsors and Bigs in attendance, it was a great opportunity for everyone to connect and find a deeper understanding of the BBBS mission in action.
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Special Thanks to our Sponsors
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GOLF CART SPONSOR
Ford Credit LUNCH SPONSOR Mortgage One Comerica Bank Terry McElroy |
DRIVING RANGE SPONSOR
Muth Law |
A Fall Evening with BBBS - September 8 in Ann Arbor
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On Sunday, September 8th, nearly 200 friends of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan gathered in Ann Arbor at A Fall Evening with BBBS to support youth mentoring in our community. Hosted at the home of Tara and Ethan Linkner, A Fall Evening brought together good friends, old and new, that share a soft spot in their heart for youth. 2025 Big of the Year, Jewayne, shared his story about why he became a Big, what he’s learned (all about tadpoles, for one thing) and encouraged everyone to get involved. The weather was picture-perfect and the night included elegant music, delectable food, a 52-card raffle, and a thrilling live auction, ultimately raising over $200,000 thanks to the generosity of our donors. Special thanks to Presenting Sponsor, The Jones Family Foundation, for their unwavering support.
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Special Thanks to our Sponsors
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PRESENTING SPONSOR
The Jones Family Foundation MAGIC MAKER SPONSOR Emily & Henry Ford III DREAM MAKER SPONSOR Avfuel Ambassador Ronald Weiser The Janeth Fund Stephanie & Bruce Benz |
WISH MAKER SPONSOR
Martin Family Foundation Norma & Dick Sarns The VonVoigtlander Family Foundation MATCH MAKER SPONSOR Debbie & Mike Tirico Cheryl & Jamie Buhr Smart Energy - Michigan Mechanical Insulation Steve & Jackie Tracy Bank of Ann Arbor Nancie & Don Loppnow Promanus Inc Lindsay & Ralph Petty |
BUDDY MAKER SPONSOR
Nancy & Del Dunbar Towsley Foundation Tammy & Doug Zimmer Ellie Serras |
Bowl for Kids’ Sake - AAA in Westland / Stellantis in Rochester Hills
The classic Big Brothers Big Sisters fundraiser, Bowl for Kids’ Sake, was alive and well in 2024 with 2 corporate partners: AAA and Stellantis. On October 12th, AAA staff and their families gathered in Westland to compete for bragging rights back at the office! Silent auctions, a 50/50 raffle, pizza, pop and some friendly team rivalry made for a fun afternoon in support of youth mentoring. Additionally, on November 1st, Stellantis employees were playing for strikes in Rochester Hills as they took an afternoon off from work to support Big Brothers Big Sisters. In addition to supporting youth mentoring with BBBS, there was some serious team-building happening on the lanes between Stellantis co-workers. Thank you to AAA and Stellantis!
THANK YOU AAA! |
THANK YOU STELLANTIS |
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This financial data is unaudited*
We Are Defenders
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PROGRAM SUPPORTS
REACH is an acronym (defined below) that lists different types of activities that can directly support holistic youth development. We use the acronym REACH to inform all of our planning as it relates to Match outings - whether the Match is meeting individually on their own time or attending a BBBS event, we work to ensure that they're engaging in a REACH activity.
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In both match support and internal planning, we're always emphasizing the importance of a well-rounded and intentional REACH approach to match outings and group activities. Healthy developmental mentorships help both children and adults learn and grow through a wide variety of experiences - and have fun doing it! 43 Group Events including environmental clean up, events at the Durfee Innovation Society, and various REACH activities (Recreation, Education and Careers, Arts and Culture, Civic Engagement, and Health and Wellness). The REACH initiative, funded by the Common Grant, empowers BBBSSEM matches to select activities that best suit their developing relationships. This approach subtly but effectively embodies our "Bigger Together" ethos. We also recommend activities aligned with the REACH framework, each designed to foster connections and personal growth:
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CORPORATE DONORS AND GRANTS
As a donor-supported volunteer organization, BBBSSEM is deeply grateful to the donors and contributors listed below, as well as the many others not listed, who have generously given to the BBBS organization. These contributions make more matches possible and help fund and entire year of relationship-building, and thoughtful mentoring. Your support empowers us to continue making a meaningful difference in the agency’s community. You are a Defender of Potential, and your support is invaluable and greatly appreciated. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
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A2 Kiwanis Foundation
AAA AAACF: EmpowerMENt Fund AAACF: Ypsi Fund Adient Ally Amazon Amwins Ann Arbor Jaycees Ann Arbor Track Club Anne Hayes/A2 Thrift Shop AON Apple Arby's Ascension Michigan Ascension St. John AT&T Avfuel Bank of America Bank of Ann Arbor Big House, Big Heart CHEMpreneurIST Children Trust Michigan City of Ann Arbor City of Detroit Colina Foundation Comcast Comerica Community Financial Credit union Community Foundation of Southeast Michigan Decode Escape Room Detroit Industrial School Detroit Lions Foundation Detroit Pistons Detroit Tigers Detroit Zoo Dollar General Domino's Pizza DTE Foundation |
DTE Midstream
Eagles for Children Ernst & Young Ervin Foundation Ewie Group First Independence Bank Ford Motor Credit Friends of the Detroit River Gap General Motors HAP CareSource Henkel Henry Ford and Greenfield Village Howard & Howard Humanetics Hylant J Ferrantino Foundation James & Faith Knight Foundation Jenkins Foundation JF Ervin Foundation Jones Family Foundation Kiwanis Club of Ann Arbor Kroger Ladies League of Detroit Macy's Macy's Foundation Makiah Shipp Mammoth Distilling MCBD (Science Day) McKinsey & Co. Meijer Meridian MI Health Endowment Fund Mortgage 1 Muth Law NFL Inspire Change Nordstrom Rack Oakland County Futbol Club OJJDP Old National Bank Old Spice |
PhiChi
PNC Foundation Promanus Inc. Redies Foundation Rotary Club Sachse Construction SCRAP Smart Energy-Michigan Mechanical Insulation Society of Women Engineers Speckhard-Knight Foundation Starbucks Stellantis Strategic iQ Strategic Staffing Solutions Susannah Goodman The Last Word The Moveable Feast Thomas Foundation Towsley Foundation Toyota Traction Ulta UM Baseball Team United Brad Manufacturers, Inc. United Way of Southeast Michigan United Way of Washtenaw County UPS Store #5281 UWSEM - Oakland County Verizon Walmart Walsh College Alumni Whole Foods Market Young Women’s Home Association Youth Collaboratory We apologize for any errors or omissions in this listing of donors. |
HONORING THE LEGACY OF BRAD SIMMONS
In 2024, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan was honored to receive a generous bequest from the estate of Brad Simmons, a longtime supporter and advocate for youth mentoring. Brad served on the BBBS Board of Directors and played a pivotal role in bringing attention to the urgent need for youth in our community to have access to caring, consistent and trusted adult mentors. Brad's impact lives on. BBBS extends our deepest gratitude to Brad and his family for this significant and enduring contribution.
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM
President and CEOJennifer Spitler
Executive AssistantLindsay Zielonka
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Development Director Anne Marie Veneroni
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Program DirectorJoselyn Mitchell-Parker
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WE ARE SO GRATEFUL
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To our volunteers, who show up and and share small moments with a young person, we could not do what we do without you. Thank you for your time, your patience, for the lessons you teach and the lessons you learn. We are grateful for you each and every day.
And to our donors, who give financial support to ensure that we can continue to advance our mission, you are piece of every match we make. Thank you all for standing with us today to defend the potential of tomorrow. |
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Locations:
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Contact UsPHONEDetroit - 313-309-0500
Ypsilanti - 734-975-0933 |
