One-on-One Mentorship Changes Futures

At United Way Grays Harbor, we believe in supporting programs that build resilience, confidence, and brighter futures for local youth.

That’s why we’re proud to partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Washington (BBBS) as they work to grow their presence and impact right here in Grays Harbor and Pacific Counties.

Their team is working hard to connect more local youth with mentors.

When you think of Big Brothers Big Sisters, you probably imagine the classic image: a Big Brother or Big Sister spending time with a child, sharing moments that build trust and confidence. That’s still at the heart of what they do—but here in Grays Harbor and Pacific Counties, the impact goes much deeper.

"Our mission is to create and support one-on-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth,"

said Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Washington, during their recent presentation to United Way Grays Harbor.

With programs that go beyond traditional meetups, Big Brothers Big Sisters is helping local kids build brighter futures, both emotionally and economically.

A Local Story of Healing and Hope

One story that touched the United Way team was about a Grays Harbor man who connected with Big Brothers Big Sisters after experiencing a devastating personal loss.

After losing his stepson to suicide, this community member attended a suicide prevention meeting in Montesano—where he happened to meet Allie Elgin, the Grays Harbor Program Mentor Coordinator. Moved by the need for youth mentorship, he decided to become a Big Brother.

Now, he’s almost fully enrolled and ready to be matched with a Little Brother. Together, they’re already making plans to cook meals and start a small garden on the river property where he lives.

"He’s giving his Little a garden plot of his own," said the BBBS team. "It’s a beautiful example of turning grief into purpose and giving back to a local youth."

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Mentorship Creates Long-Term Economic Impact

Big Brothers Big Sisters doesn’t just change kids’ lives for a season—it’s setting them up for lifelong success.

A recent national research study conducted by Harvard University and the U.S. Department of the Treasury found:

Littles in the program are 10% more likely to enroll in college after high school
They enter the workforce earning more than their non-mentored peers
Between the ages of 20–25, they earn 20% higher incomes than peers without mentors
Littles’ income as adults closely aligns with the higher income level of their Big, breaking cycles of poverty

For kids growing up in areas like Grays Harbor and Pacific County—where challenges like poverty, academic struggles, and social isolation are common—this kind of mentorship can be life-changing.

The Ongoing Need for Mentors

Right now in Grays Harbor and Pacific Counties, there are more kids waiting for mentors than there are available Bigs.

"Our kids are facing poverty, academic challenges, and social barriers. They need positive role models—someone consistent who shows up and believes in them."

Said Ashley Heim, Director of Programs and Operations for BBBS.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is actively recruiting more volunteer mentors locally. The team is working hard to meet the growing need but the waitlist continues to grow.

If you’ve ever thought about becoming a mentor, now is the time to learn more.

Want to Get Involved?

If you’re interested in becoming a mentor—or know a child who could benefit—learn more at https://www.swwabigs.org.

Your time could make a lasting difference in a young person’s life—and in the future of our community.

This program is funded in part by community donations to United Way Grays Harbor.

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