Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon

When Dylan first met her Big Sister Kim through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon more than four years ago, she never imagined the journey they’d take together – one that would culminate as valedictorian, a private college acceptance, and a deep bond that will last a lifetime. 

Dylan was in middle school when she joined the BBBSCO program, looking not only for mentorship, but also for connection and consistency. Kim, with a heart for giving back, stepped up to be that constant in Dylan’s life. What began as occasional outings evolved into something far more meaningful. 

Their connection was built on the small moments that matter most – from their first outing of walking the river trail to Kim being their for Dylan as she graduated high school. Kim’s presence and thoughtful mentorship helped Dylan navigate the challenges of high school while also embracing her potential. 

That potential shined brightly. Last spring, Dylan graduated as valedictorian of her high school class. Her next chapter begins at a private college in Southern California. Her goal? To build a future that uplifts others – just as BBBSCO and Kim did for her.

“I’m so grateful that BBBSCO got to be a part of my high school journey and beyond!” Dylan wrote in a note to the organization. “I appreciate the resources, kindness, and care the BBBSCO team has continuously poured into me and my family. You inspire me to do the same for my community and people in need around me.” 

Her words reflect the very essence of the Big Brothers Big Sisters mission – to ignite the power and promise of youth. For Dylan, that spark came with support, guidance, and the unwavering belief from her Big Sister that she could do anything she set her mind to.

As Dylan leaves Central Oregon for her college career, her story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when mentorship meets opportunity. Her journey is just beginning – but her impact, like her gratitude, is already radiating outward. 

Learn more about J Bar J Youth Services

Learn More about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon was recognized as the Small-Mid Agency of the Year by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America -standingout among 230 agencies nationwide. The award honors agencies that demonstrate excellence in leadership, increased youth impact, and community engagement. Our Central Oregon team maintained an 85.3% retention rate in 2024 and stood out for their dedication to high-quality, one- to-one mentorship that changes lives.

As if that weren’t enough, the program also received the organization’s Platinum Award for Excellence in Leadership, given to agencies that go above and beyond national standards in quality and performance. This recognition highlights the strength of our program’s outcomes and the dedication of the team behind them.

Adding to the celebration, Program Director Jenn Davis was appointed to the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America National Leadership Council, a role that invites her to help guide the direction of the movement nationwide. Her voice – rooted in the realities of our rural and small-town communities – brings essential perspective to the national table.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon continues to empower youth through strong relationships, consistency, and care. These national honors reflect what we see every day: mentors and staff going above and beyond to help youth realize their potential.

​At the National Big Brothers Big Sisters conference earlier this year, we were honored with the Small-Mid Agency of the Year Award. Out of 81 agencies, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon (A program of J Bar J Youth Services) stood out for its dedication to mentoring relationships that ignite the potential of young people.

A highlight of our match activities this summer was the Family Engagement Day at Elk Lake Resort, where Bigs, Littles, and families enjoyed paddle boarding and kayaking. “Events like this strengthen the bonds between our Bigs and Littles while fostering a sense of community among our families,” said Jenn Davis, Program Director.

Mentorship has a life-changing impact, as seen in Jacob’s story. After losing his mother to brain cancer, Jacob’s father and stepmother enrolled him in Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon, hoping for the support Jacob needed during this difficult time. He was matched with Dave, a steady and caring Big Brother who has taken Jacob on countless adventures – from shooting hoops to white water rafting. Through their time together, Dave has helped Jacob find joy, trust, and hope amid his grief.

This Fall, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon’s 27th Annual Comedy For Kids’ Sake returns on Friday, October 4, 2024, at Tetherow. Though the event is sold out, you can still have an impact by becoming a Big Brother or Sister or donating to our life-changing program.

8-year-old Cameron does not have any involvement with his father and has had no positive male influences in his life.  His mom hoped that he could have a positive male mentor so she contacted Big Brothers Big Sisters.  Cameron was then matched with a fun, active Big Brother, Scott. Cameron decided he wanted to try baseball for the first time as he had never been on a sports team. Cameron’s mom wasn’t sure how to navigate this new experience so with some help from Scott, Cameron was registered for a team. As fortune would have it, baseball is Scott’s favorite sport and he took Cameron and his mom to a sports shop and helped them pick out all the right equipment. On the day of tryouts, Scott surprised Cameron and was right there beside him to support the experience. Mom sent a picture of Cameron and Scott to BBBS and said, “I have been crying all morning because Cameron had the best morning ever and is carrying a new confidence.” 

On August 25th at Al Moody Park, Big Brothers Big Sisters on Central Oregon (BBBSCO) brought together a community of over 150 people, including Littles and their families, as well as dedicated Bigs and their families. This day was all about celebrating the incredible impact of mentorship, as BBBSCO families united under the summer sun.

BBBSCO treated everyone to dinner and special treats, setting the stage for an event filled with connection and inspiration. Bend Fire and Rescue and the Bend Police Department joined us, creating an opportunity for our Littles to explore their dreams of firefighting and policing. The day was marked by discovery and excitement as young people learned from our local heroes.

This year’s Annual Back to School Picnic was a testament to potential that mentorship brings into the lives of children and their mentors. We thank everyone who participated and contributed to this unforgettable day, strengthening the bonds that make our community shine even brighter. Here’s to the power of mentorship and the promise of brighter futures for all our Littles!

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon’s mission is to create one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the promise and power of youth. The newest “Big” in our program, Francia, is also a staff member and Match Support Specialist. “Little” Javier has been waiting for his match since June 2021. When Francia heard about Javier she knew he was the perfect Little for her.

Javier has Cerebral Palsy and his mother has expressed that it has been hard to find services for him. She really wanted Javier to find a Big Brother or Big Sister and has been engaged in the process. Javier and Francia hit it off immediately, making plans of their first outing. He told her that he wanted someone that could take him to Walmart and he wants to eat Wendy’s in the park. He also asked if they could go to the library.

While Javier’s speech is limited, he is happy to speak to Francia in Spanish. Javier is bi-lingual in English and Spanish and he is learning French!

Javier is looking forward to floating the river next summer with his new Big Sister. Francia!

Maria’s match with her Big Sister, Amanda, closed this summer. Maria was matched with Amanda as a 5^th grader, more than eight years ago.  One of the first activities they participated in together was a STEM night sponsored by Bend Research. They met a scientist working in a real lab and learned about the research and experiments he was working on. With Amanda, Maria was able to experience many firsts: Her first Bend Elks Game, attending the Nutcracker in person, and riding a horse. Maria wanted other kids to have these same opportunities so she spread the word and both her younger sister and cousin were matched with mentors in the program.  

Over the eight years, Maria flourished; exhibiting compassion and excitement to learn new things and explore new places. She also developed a passion for helping others. She participated in the 8+9 mentoring program which supports middle schoolers transition into High school. In High School, Maria attended MUSE Camp, a summer camp that intends to empower girls by encouraging them to find their voices, move their bodies, and make a difference in themselves as well as the world around them. 

Though the match ended this summer in preparation for Maria’s departure to Portland State University, she and Amanda will always be connected.

Mentoring improves the lives and futures of kids well beyond childhood. We are proud of everything Maria has accomplished, and know that she heads into adulthood knowing the potential she carries. We are grateful for Amanda, and all of our Big Brothers and Big Sisters who ignite and defend the potential in every child. 

Big Brother Big Sisters of Central Oregon has a long-standing tradition of cultivating strong and caring friendships through careful matching of “Bigs” and “Littles” in the community. We recently received a letter from Danny Frank about his experience. He tells us:

During our match, we had some wonderful adventures together including skiing at Mt. Bachelor, hiking in the Cascades, watching movies, riding bikes, bowling, and playing video games. I also had a blast watching Will play goalie on the Bend Senior High soccer team. We had deep conversations about school, relationships, parents, and other important life issues. When I left Bend for Minnesota, leaving Will was one of the more difficult aspects of the move.

Years later, I still consider Will a part of my family. He’s all grown up, a sponsored skier, professional photographer and filmmaker, bartender, guitar player and singer for the band Dusty Bones, and all-around avid adventurer. Truly a stand-up guy. I am so proud of the man Will is today, and I like to think that our friendship played some small part in who he has become. Even though we live thousands of miles away, our friendship remains a strong and important part of my life.