(Courtesy of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago)

Research shows that kids in mentorships are more likely to graduate high school and enroll in college, have lower rates of substance abuse and overall report better feelings of self-esteem and confidence.

Denise Gonzalez-Mendez (WTTW News)

The Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program has been making matches in Chicago since 1967, but a lot has changed over the years. Many of the kids now come from Spanish-speaking households, and the organization is looking for more “bigs” who speak their language to volunteer.

(WTTW News)

The more than 50-year-old organization is seeking to make cultural connections that help kids achieve their full potential.