Targeting children ages 6-18, Big Brothers Big Sisters assists youth to reach their potential through professionally supported, one-to-one relationships with volunteer mentors. BBBS distinguishes itself from other mentoring programs via rigorous published standards and required procedures, including volunteer screening, youth assessment, a careful matching process, and supervision. Agencies use a case management approach, following each case from initial inquiry through closure. Research has shown that positive relationships between youth and their mentors have a direct and measurable impact on participating children’s lives. Participating youth are less likely to initiate drug and alcohol use and less likely to hit someone. They also demonstrate increased academic behavior, attitudes, and performance, and report higher-quality relationships with parents/guardians and peers.