NFL Teams Up With Big Brothers Big Sisters To Draft Mentors

TAMPA, FL — Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States, is teaming up with the NFL’s Inspire Change social justice initiative to launch “The Big Draft” campaign to recruit mentors across the country.

While the NFL begins drafting its next generation of superstar players, BBBSA is committed to recruiting mentors, especially men and men of color, to serve as role models and support today’s youth.

Currently there are more than 30,000 youth across the country waiting for mentors, known as "Bigs," with most being young boys of color. Studies show that children who have role models are more likely to do better in school, have better connections with family and friends and are less likely to be involved in risky behaviors.

As one of the longest-standing partners of the NFL Inspire Change, BBBSA has worked with the initiative since 2019 to share stories of mentorship and the positive impact it has on empowering young people and helping communities connect across racial and economic divides.

New this year, Pepsi Stronger Together has joined BBBSA as a national corporate partner and sponsor for The Big Draft campaign to continue raising awareness of the importance of mentorship.

The Big Draft kicked off online after Super Bowl LVI, emulating the NFL Draft.

NFL stars including Tyler Higbee, Lavonte David and Zack Moss have also teamed up with BBBSA to help draft Bigs for today’s youth, by sharing their personal experiences and how mentorship has impacted their own lives, helping them get to where they are today.

“I’ve experienced first-hand how crucial mentorship is for our youth, especially for young males, and we’re thrilled to continue our partnership with NFL Inspire Change, advancing equity, impact and growth across the organization, making a lasting impact on the lives of young people,” said Artis Stevens, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “Our Bigs have a positive impact on their Littles, helping them to overcome obstacles in life and conquer many struggles as they prepare for adulthood. With the help of NFL Inspire Change and our new partner, Pepsi, we will connect and engage new mentorship experiences that will last a lifetime.”

The Big Draft campaign will run through the last week of April when the NFL Draft begins.

To learn more about The Big Draft, click here.