Big Brothers Big Sisters returning to North Idaho

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Inland Northwest is returning to North Idaho and is launching an outreach campaign, “Something BIG is Coming."

Its goal is to recruit volunteers to mentor youth ages 6 to 16.

“Mentorship transforms lives and can truly level the playing field for youth on the margins,” said Kyle West, CEO.

For over a decade, the organization operated an office in downtown Coeur d’Alene, creating and supporting more than 150 mentorship matches annually. 

Following the 2008 financial crisis, the Coeur d’Alene office closed to reduce expenses and keep the organization afloat, with staff and resources consolidated at the Spokane headquarters, according to a press release.

But BBBS has long been preparing for a return to North Idaho. It anticipates seeking dedicated office space in the Coeur d'Alene area in the next 12 to 18 months.

For the short term, most of its case management will be performed remotely from Spokane. It is also partnering with a local nonprofit to conduct Match interviews and Match activities in their space. 

"Bigs" and "Littles" meet two to three times per month, spending four to eight hours together doing activities they both enjoy, from hiking to baking cookies to working on homework.

“We’re thrilled to return to North Idaho, helping more young people realize their full potential and strengthening our community for generations to come," West said.

Research shows that youth in mentoring programs like BBBS are more likely to succeed in school, less likely to use drugs or alcohol, and more likely to achieve higher lifetime earnings potential, a press release said.