INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — Nov. 7, 2025 — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana (BBBSCI) is reimagining how mentoring fits into everyday life. Following a year of record impact and measurable outcomes detailed in its newly released 2024–2025 Annual Report, the organization is building on that momentum with new and returning programs and initiatives that expand access to mentorship across Central Indiana. That includes the launch of Big Sports – an initiative that taps into Indiana’s passion for athletics to inspire the next generation – the introduction of group mentoring, and the return of its school-based mentoring program, offering more ways for youth and mentors to connect.

These outcomes, highlighted in BBBSCI’s latest report, underscore the importance of consistent mentorship:

• 99% of youth reduced or continued to avoid risky behaviors, such as bullying.
• 97% of graduating Littles completed high school, which is above the state average of 90%.
• 82% improved their ability to manage emotions and relationships.

As BBBSCI continues to see increased demand for mentorship, the organization is working to reduce its waitlist of hundreds of youth by creating more flexible, accessible ways for adults to get involved.

“The outcomes in our Annual Report show what’s possible when our community shows up in a big way, but we know there’s still more to do,” said Darcey Palmer-Shultz, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana. “We’re building on that momentum to reach even more young people through programs that fit into everyday life – whether that’s through sports, at schools, or small group experiences. When adults give just a small amount of their time and encouragement, the ripple effect can last a lifetime.”

Expanding Opportunities for Connection

The organization’s new and returning programs include:

• Big Sports: A new initiative calling volunteers to “be a child’s biggest fan.” Through collaborations with the Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, NCAA, and Indianapolis Indians, among others, new Bigs and Littles will enjoy one-of-a-kind game-day experiences, meet players, and celebrate mentorship through sports.
• School-Based Mentoring: Relaunched this fall, this program allows volunteers to spend one lunch hour a week with a 3rd or 4th grader – helping kids grow in confidence, connection, and care.
• Group Mentoring: An 8-week mentoring experience focused on confidence, communication, and life skills, facilitated by BBBSCI staff and supported by volunteer mentors. Dinner is provided at each session.

Together, these initiatives make it easier for working professionals, families, and community members to fit mentoring into their lives – one lunch hour, one evening, or one game at a time.

“Our mission has always been about connection — and these programs bring that to life in new and exciting ways,” said Palmer-Shultz. “Hundreds of kids across Central Indiana are still waiting for a mentor, and we want each of them to have a champion in their corner. Every new Big brings us one step closer.”

To learn more, become a mentor, or join the Big Sports initiative, visit www.BeBigForKids.org.

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About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana is based in Indianapolis and serves youth and families who reside in Marion, Hamilton, and Johnson counties through mentoring relationships with adult volunteers. The Big Brothers Big Sisters vision is that all youth achieve their full potential. To fulfill that vision, the mission of BBBSCI is to create and support mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. This year, BBBSCI will support over 1,300 young people through one-to-one mentoring, group mentoring, and collaborative programming. To volunteer, donate, or for more information, visit www.BeBigForKids.org or call (317) 921-2201.

To our community members & supporters, 

If you’ve driven down to 14th and Meridian, you may have glimpsed a new addition to the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana mentoring hub. With a brightness meant to light up the cloudiest of days, we are proud to share a message that will inspire pride, joy, and belonging in our community.

Indy shines when you SHARE YOUR LIGHT. 

This mural is meant to remind us of the ripple effect of good…of joy…of opportunity when everyone shares a little bit of themselves with each other – with the hope that we’ll all be encouraged to share a little of our light every day, just like our Bigs and Littles do. 

September also happens to be Big Brothers Big Sisters Month. 

Celebrate with us by sharing your light and encouraging those around you to be part of helping our community shine brighter than ever before: 

1. Display a yard sign at your home or business. Share this opportunity with others in your network to pepper Central Indiana with these free and delivered signs! 
2. Wear green as we Paint the Town Green from September 14-20. Take a photo and tag BBBSCI during that week as you wear green in support of mentorship. If you believe your workplace may be interested in helping Paint the Town Green during this week, reach out to your Mentoring Relationship Specialist. 
3. Encourage your friends and family to become a Big. As you all know, sharing your time with another person is invaluable. Recommend people you know to take the first step toward becoming a mentor for one of the 1,000+ kids still waiting. 

Thank you for choosing to share your light through Big Brothers Big Sisters, and thank you for believing in the light within every Little in our program. 

Crew Carwash Hosts One-Day Fundraiser Across Indy Locations

INDIANAPOLIS (July 11, 2025) – Crew Carwash, a trusted family-owned business since 1948, is proud to announce the return of its annual Crew for Kids fundraiser in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Now in its sixteenth year, the one-day event will take place Saturday, July 19, at all 54 Crew Carwash locations across Indiana and Minnesota, including 49 in the Indianapolis and surrounding areas.

As part of the event, 50% of all Ultimate Wash proceeds—from both in-store and online sales on Saturday, July 19—will be donated directly to local Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies. The event runs from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with an inclement weather date set for Saturday, July 26. Select locations will feature live appearances by local officials, mascots, and special guests throughout the day.

“Crew Carwash has given back to our local communities since 1948 and will continue doing so with the support of our amazing teams,” said Bill Dahm, CEO of Crew Carwash. “Every year, we’re proud to partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters for Crew for Kids to support the kids of Indiana and Minnesota.”

Funds raised will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies that serve markets in which Crew has locations. The agencies to receive proceeds from this fundraiser include Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana, Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central Indiana, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Lafayette, Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago, and more local agencies of the youth organization.

“We have always been a big supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters as we head into our 16th annual Crew for Kids event,” said Sally Grant, 3rd Generation Leader and Owner of Crew Carwash. “Big Brothers Big Sisters offers meaningful mentorship opportunities to help youth achieve their full potential, and we’re proud to support that mission.”

In 2024, Crew Carwash raised more than $200,000 during the single-day fundraiser, bringing the company’s total contributions to over $1 million since the event’s inception in 2010.
“Partnering with Crew Carwash for the 16th year of the Crew for Kids event is always a highlight of our summer. Through their community-oriented mindset, Crew Carwash provides a simple way that people can support kids and recognize the importance of mentorship throughout Indiana and Minnesota,” said Darcey Palmer-Shultz, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana. “Alongside our generous partners, BBBSCI works endlessly to ensure that as many young people in our community benefit from the mentorship they deserve.”

Crew and Big Brothers Big Sisters invite customers to “be Big”—not just by participating in the fundraiser, but by learning more about becoming a mentor. In just a few hours each month, mentors can make a lasting difference in a child’s life. Visit https://www.bebigforkids.org/volunteer to learn more.

For more information about Crew Carwash, visit www.crewcarwash.com and follow Crew on Facebook and Instagram.

To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters, visit www.bbbs.org and connect on Facebook and Instagram.

(Indianapolis, IN) – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana (BBBSCI), in collaboration with Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), celebrated a successful ”500 Bigs by the Indy 500” volunteer recruitment campaign with 584 potential volunteers sharing their interest in becoming mentors, or “Bigs.” 

With close to 1,000 young people waiting for one-to-one mentoring services in Central Indiana, BBBSCI and IMS worked together to elevate the need for more caring mentors to support kids throughout Marion, Hamilton, and Johnson counties. 

“IMS knew that Indy would step up in this moment because that’s what our community does,” said Penske Entertainment Senior Vice President Allison Melangton. “We are grateful to be in the position where the Central Indiana community wants to give back, and IMS wants to celebrate this successful campaign as much as we all celebrate the historic Indianapolis 500 each year!” 

“BBBSCI is so proud to be part of a community that uplifts kids and their potential to thrive,” says Darcey Palmer-Shultz, CEO of BBBSCI. “With each person who has taken the first step to become a mentor, our community is answering the call of hundreds of kids and families who want just one more person to be part of the village it takes to support a young person. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. And, let’s keep it going.” 

Below, see some of the matches that were made from the “500 Bigs by the Indy 500” campaign.

BBBS has been a leader in mentorship for 120 years, and BBBSCI has served this community for 50+ years. We use evidence-based mentoring practices that show that mentorship is good for young people, good for the economy, and good for society. 

Through a groundbreaking economic impact study focused on the BBBS mentoring program, it has shown that: 

• Littles are 20% more likely to enroll in college after high school graduation; 

• Littles enter the workforce earning more than their non-mentored peers, and they experience 15% higher income between the ages of 20 and 25 years old; and 

• Littles’ income as adults was more closely aligned with the higher income of their Bigs than their family – closing two-thirds of the socio-economic gap for Littles compared to non-mentored young people. 

Being a mentor, or “Big,” through BBBSCI requires a one-year commitment to be matched with a mentee, or “Little.” Bigs and Littles meet 4-6 hours per month, and together, they enjoy activities provided by BBBSCI and their partners or find activities within their community. To learn more about becoming a Big, visit www.bebigforkids.org/volunteer. 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana recently celebrated the Littles and Bigs graduating from our mentorship program at Celebrate Mentoring, sponsored by AES Indiana. On Sunday, April 27, our graduating matches, accompanied by their family and friends, gathered at Newfields to commemorate and celebrate their accomplishment.

The 2025 graduating BBBSCI class consists of 81 matches – made up of one-to-one mentoring relationships as well as Big Friend and Big Couple three-to-one mentoring relationships. Some of these Bigs and Littles have been matched 1 year, while others have been matched more than 10 years. No matter the duration, we know that the friendships built through these mentoring relationships are transformative.

At the Celebrate Mentoring graduation ceremony, our Littles and Bigs crossed the stage to receive their program certificate of achievement. Previous matches of the year and sponsorship recipients were also highlighted in the program! Throughout this exciting evening, guests also heard from a graduating Big, a graduating Little, and a parent of a Little – giving the audience all possible perspectives of a mentoring relationship.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana wants to extend a huge congratulations to all graduating matches. For our graduating Littles – we cannot wait to see the big things that are in store for your futures.

In October of 2024, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana joined forces with Indiana Sports Corp and Big Ten to kick off a series of programming known as Careers in Sports. Careers in Sports aims to educate Littles in the BBBSCI program on the various careers in sports outside of becoming a professional athlete.

The initial Careers in Sports session allowed a group of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana Bigs and Littles to learn all about the media, press, and sports broadcasting prior to a Big Ten Championship football game. Littles gained a true hands-on experience as they were able to field questions at a press table inside of Lucas Oil Stadium, tour the CBS broadcast truck where all the magic happens, visit the press box – the highest seat in the house, and test out the pyrotechnics. They also gained valuable insight from speaking to the lead Athletic Trainer from St. Vincent.

Following these once-in-a-lifetime experiences, our Littles wrapped up the afternoon with a luncheon featuring Tony Petitti, Big Ten Commissioner, and Anthony Calhoun, WISH-TV Sports Anchor. They of course got to snap some photos with these two, capturing a day spent diving deeper into the professional world of sports! Not only that, but our matches were also gifted tickets to the Penn State versus Oregon Big Ten Championship football game so that they could see the media, press, and broadcasting in action on game day.

For the final Careers in Sports session in March, our Bigs and Littles learned all about the marketing, community engagement, broadcasting, and business that takes place when it comes to professional basketball. In preparation for the Big Ten Basketball games, matches started their day off at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for breakfast. Here, they had the opportunity to hear from Andy Katz, Digital Reporter, Analyst, and Host for NCAA. Katz shared valuable insight on his work as a key figure in NCAA tournament coverage – analyzing bracket predictions, sharing team performances, and providing  behind-the-scenes content. Our Littles were also able to ask Katz questions about his career journey and day-to-day work. Following this excitement, our Bigs and Littles were given tickets to Big Ten Men’s basketball game that took place that same day!

We are incredibly grateful for our partnership with Indiana Sports Corp and Big Ten for allowing our matches to have such special, once-in-a-lifetime experiences! More importantly, we are so excited about the valuable information our Littles who are considering professional careers in the sports world are gaining from the Careers in Sports series.

(Indianapolis, IN) – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana (BBBSCI), in collaboration with Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS), officially announced today a volunteer campaign to recruit “500 Bigs by the Indy 500.” 

From March 19 through May 25, the day of the 109^th Running of the Indianapolis 500, BBBSCI and IMS will be working together to share the need and urgency for more mentors in the Central Indiana community. With over 1,200 young people who are waiting for a mentor in Central Indiana, BBBSCI and IMS are looking for 500 community members to step up and take the first step to become a mentor. 

“IMS is excited to partner with BBBSCI yet again to connect more kids with impactful mentors,” said Penske Entertainment Senior Vice President Allison Melangton. “We understand the importance of connection within our community, and we hope to bring more people together through both racing and mentorship this season.” 

“There is no city that rallies around their community like Indianapolis, and we are so grateful to IMS for collaborating with us again to give back to our community,” says Darcey Palmer-Shultz, CEO of BBBSCI. “Mentorship is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to change the trajectory of a kid’s life. With so many young people asking for another supportive person in their corner, we know that Central Indiana will show up to make sure that every child feels seen, appreciated, and valued.” 

BBBS has been a leader in mentorship for 120 years, and BBBSCI has served this community for 50+ years. We use evidence-based mentoring experiences that show that mentorship is good for young people, good for the economy, and good society: 

• Good for Young People – In the long term, adults who’ve had a positive mentor experience greater health benefits, reduced isolation, and live longer lives. People who have experienced mentorship are: 
  • Two times more likely to be involved in and hold leadership positions; 
  • 41% less likely to engage in substance abuse; and 
  • Two times more likely to enroll in post-secondary education. 

• Good for the Economy – Mentorship plays a crucial role in bridging capital and fostering upward economic mobility with evidence showing that creating economic connectedness in childhood leaders to higher income in adulthood. 

• Good for Society – Mentoring builds stronger social connections across diverse groups, leading to a more connected society across socioeconomic, racial, and geographic lines.  

Being a mentor, or “Big,” through BBBSCI requires a one-year commitment to be matched with a mentee, or “Little.” Bigs and Littles meet 4-6 hours per month, and together, they enjoy activities provided by BBBSCI and their partners or find activities within their community. To learn more about becoming a Big, visit www.bebigforkids.org/volunteer. 

To learn more about BBBSCI and the 500 Bigs by the Indy 500 campaign, visit www.bebigforkids.org/500by500. 

On January 30, 2025 Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana held our National Mentoring Month celebration event; The Big Spark. With some current Bigs and many prospective Bigs, our audience enjoyed a meaningful night of inspiration.

We heard from a variety of individuals on the importance of mentorship. Charlotte Hiatt, the mother of waiting Little Chayse, emphasized the need we have for more mentors in our community and how her family has benefitted from the power of mentorship over the past several years.

We also heard a deeply personal and impactful story from Aaron Green, the CEO of Struggle University. Using his real life experiences, especially as a former Little in the BBBS program, he reminded us just how much of a difference mentorship can make in a young person’s life.

Along with hearing from these inspiring guest speakers, we also had the chance to meet our 2025 Matches of the Year; Little Brother Blaze and Big Brother Rick, Little Sister Jamie and Big Sister Jaleesa, and Little Sister Aniya and Big Sister Hailey. Congratulations to these matches!

We left The Big Spark feeling motivated and ready to make change in our community. If you want to impact the life of a young person through mentorship, you can become a Big at bebigforkids.org/volunteer. It Takes Little to be Big.

This National Mentoring Month, we’ve partnered with Starbucks to help us give a huge thank you to our Bigs. On every Friday during the month of January, active Bigs can redeem a free, tall [12oz.] drink of your choice from a participating Starbucks location!

Present your BBBSCI volunteer ID card or your promotional postcard at participating Central Indiana Starbucks stores to receive your free tall beverage (12 fl. oz.) beverage on January 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31.

Click here to find a participating Starbucks store near you!

Note: Starbucks counters located inside retail stores, hotels, airports, etc. are not participating in this promotion.

On September 26, 2024, Eli Lilly and Company partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana for their annual community-service campaign known as Lilly Global Day of Service. On this day, volunteers helped to spread the mission of mentorship by delivering Big Brothers Big Sisters yard signs across central Indiana.

For our 10^th year of partnership, we had the opportunity to work with a brand-new group of 40+ volunteers from Eli Lilly and Company known as Chorus. They are described as “an integrated team of drug developers providing IND-enabling and clinical development capabilities.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana hosted a kickoff breakfast for all our Eli Lilly and Company volunteers where they had the opportunity to learn more about our organization and fuel up before heading out to deliver signs.

In total, our volunteers delivered over 650 Big Brothers Big Sisters signs to yards, schools, and businesses across Marion, Johnson, and Hamilton county.

We are immensely grateful to Eli Lilly and Company and the Chorus team for playing an integral role in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana’s largest annual grassroots awareness campaign!