our featured non-profit

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas works to ignite the power and promise of youth in our community – particularly those facing adversity – by offering support and guidance to help them reach their full potential. 

We serve children in Travis, Hays and Williamson counties who often have the odds stacked against them. Ninety percent live at or below the poverty line, 68% are from single-parent households, and 40% have an incarcerated family member.

By creating and supporting one-to-one mentoring relationships between children ages 6 – 16 and caring adult volunteers, Big Brothers Big Sisters’ program has a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people, their families, and the greater Austin community. Research shows that youth in our program have increased confidence, improved social skills, and stay in school at a rate that is higher than the national average. They are also significantly less likely to use drugs or alcohol, engage in risky or violent behavior, or become parents at an early age. 

Although we serve approximately 800 children in Central Texas each year, we still have more than 200 kids waiting to be matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister of their own. We are always in need of more volunteers to serve as positive adult role models for children in our community. 

In addition to volunteer opportunities, we also hold a number of fun fundraising events each year. Our annual Bowl for Kids event takes place in April and our annual Ice Ball gala will take place August 26, 2023 at the JW Marriott. 

Meet Rebecca & Alyssa

After experiencing a series of tragic events, 16-year-old Alyssa was losing her way – until she was matched with a Big Sister.

Before being matched, Alyssa’s mother feared that her daughter was losing hope after the family lost their home several times. But, when Alyssa was matched with Rebecca, the two had an instant connection. Alyssa found a friend who could help her get back onto a positive path.

Rebecca became a Big because she remembered her own mentors and how they’d contributed to her life. Now, as Alyssa makes her way toward the life she envisions, she plans on having her Big Sister Becca by her side.