10 Years on Grand

Touring 10 Years: A look at BBBSEMO’s first 10 years at 501 North Grand

In 2008, Big Brothers Big Sisters officially moved into its current home. As the agency commemorates this 10th anniversary, we invite you to stroll through the gallery below for a glimpse at some important BBBSEMO moments and achievements over the last decade – and welcome you to step forward with us into the next 10 years of changing lives through relationship.

A (501 NORTH) GRAND OPENING

After three years of planning and construction, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri establishes its headquarters at 501 North Grand. The agency makes a bold promise to recognize the former Woolworth building’s troubling history of segregation by welcoming all.

2008

#1 IN LONGEST LASTING MATCHES

In affirmation of its dedication to building enduring relationships, BBBSEMO ranks first among 300 national affiliates in matches that reach their one-year anniversary. This achievement underscores the agency’s focus on friendships built to last.

2008

BIGS IN BLUE LAUNCH

A one-to-one mentoring initiative connecting youth with police officers and other members of law enforcement, Bigs in Blue builds stronger bonds between the men and women who protect our communities and the youth and families they pledge to serve. This initiative, started in St. Louis, goes national in 2016.

2012

ABCToday! SCHOOLS IN SESSION

BBBSEMO pilots this innovation at Jefferson Elementary School in Cape Girardeau. By collecting data on student Attendance, Behavior, and Course performance in reading and math, the initiative informs ABCToday! network partners’ work to improve pupil outcomes. The program has evolved to serve over 7,000+ students at 19 schools – elementary through high school – across four districts in Eastern Missouri.

2013

THE FIRST BIG EVENT

The agency begins a new tradition, formally celebrating Littles' accomplishments and outstanding qualities over the year, and graduation from the traditional Big Brothers Big Sisters 1:1 match program. Over 4,000 Littles, Bigs, and Parent/Guardians and guests, as well as agency staff and supporters, have joined Big Event festivities since 2013.

2013

BEGINNING A BOLD NEW CENTURY

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri heralds its centennial with a bold commitment to start the next 100 years. With the launch of the Big Futures program, we extend our promise to young people through age 25, setting the new goal of Own Your Future living a joyful life and earning a living wage.

2014

THE NEW YOUNG LEADERS

Created expressly to serve teens new to BBBSEMO – and to keep its promise to support older youth – the agency starts the Young Leaders program. This innovation in approach serves youth taking initiative to own their future through a mentoring relationship with a Big, who can help navigate life in high school life and beyond.

2017

VISION IS REALIZED

BBBSEMO’s vision for young people to own their future, and to be a place embracing all, comes to life as alumni Little Brother/Class of 2014 graduate Jonathan Deery completes trade school to start full-time, living wage work; and ANEW Rooftop + Test Kitchen officially opens to invite people to come together around the table to build and nourish relationship.

2017