The power of mentorship for at-risk youth

Adult mentors can be critical to a child's long-term success. — A Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor looks on as his mentee plays with a toy.

Jesse Steinmetz was the producer for Under the Radar with Callie Crossley.

September 01, 2023

Editor's note: This segment originally broadcast on Jan. 27, 2023.

In 1949, a small organization formed in Boston. Ten fatherless boys were paired with adult volunteers to help them navigate their lives. More than 70 years later, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts serves young boys and girls and connects more than 3,600 children with mentors each year.

We discuss the importance of strong social webs, how the pandemic frayed them and the power of mentoring with the leader of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts and a tight-knit duo that continues to grow together.

GUESTS

Mark O’Donnell, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts

Karen Rodriguez, volunteer mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts

Rosela Moreta, Karen’s 10-year-old mentee

Jesse Steinmetz was the producer for Under the Radar with Callie Crossley.