Who We Are - Big Brothers Big Sisters Puget Sound

WHO WE ARE

TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 2: Our vision and mission Page 3/4: Our JEDI statement Page 5/6: How we incorporate our JEDI Page 7 - 16 : Our values and how we live them Page 17: An inspiring quote Page 18: A message from BBBSPS President & CEO Alonda Williams

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OUR VISION IS THAT EVERY KID GRADUATES WITH A PLAN FOR THEIR FUTURE. AND A MENTOR WHOSE IMPACT LASTS A LIFETIME.

OUR MISSION IS TO CREATE AND SUPPORT 1-TO-1 MENTORING RELATIONSHIPS THAT IGNITE THE POWER AND PROMISE OF YOUTH.

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JUSTICE, DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION 3

OUR JEDI STATEMENT At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound, we are unwavering in our commitment to justice, equity, diversity, inclusion (JEDI) and these principles are integral to our values and mission.

We firmly believe that every person should have the opportunity to reach their full potential, and we are committed to upholding JEDI principles in all aspects of our organization.

We are dedicated to taking concrete actions to uphold these values both internally and externally, with a particular focus on empowering BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual, plus) individuals and other traditionally marginalized communities. Through these actions, both internally and externally, we create a transformative environment where every person can thrive, be heard, and truly belong. ​

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INTERNALLY We actively foster a culture of belonging through the following actions:​

1. REFLECTION AND LEARNING We encourage honest dialogue among our staff and board members, creating a space for reflection and continuous learning. By engaging in open conversations, we deepen our understanding of JEDI and belonging principles and their application within our organization.​

2. TRAINING AND EDUCATION We provide ongoing training and educational opportunities to our staff and board members, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to promote JEDI and foster a sense of belonging. This ensures that our team members have the necessary skills to create an inclusive environment.

3. ASSESSMENT AND IMPROVEMENT We regularly assess our practices and policies to identify areas where we can enhance inclusivity and belonging. This process allows us to proactively address any barriers or challenges and make meaningful improvements within our organization.​ ​

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EXTERNALLY We demonstrate our commitment to JEDI and belonging through the following actions:

1. VALUING EVERY VOICE We recognize and honor the diverse backgrounds and experiences of all our stakeholders, including youth, families, donors, volunteers, and staff. We make every effort to ensure that our work reflects multiple perspective is heard and valued, regardless of their background or identity.

2. EQUITABLE ACCESS We prioritize equitable access to our programs and services, ensuring that all individuals have an equal opportunity to participate and benefit from our offerings. We actively work to remove barriers and create an inclusive space for everyone.

3. STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT We actively engage with our stakeholders and seek their feedback. By actively listening to diverse perspectives, we ensure that our decisions and actions are informed by the needs and aspirations of our community. We value the input of our stakeholders as an essential part of creating a sense of belonging.

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WE ARE TRUSTED AND TRANSPARENT We prioritize every aspect of safety for the youth we are trusted to protect. Donors trust that we will use their dollars effectively and do what we say we will do to have the greatest impact. We will tell the truth and be accountable, even when it hurts. We will do the right thing. We strive to create a safe space so that there is no fear of being honest when we succeed and when we fall short. We act with the deep belief that we are privileged and honored to have the trust of our community.

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OUR VALUES

HOW WE LIVE OUR VALUES BIGS Mentors know what to expect, where they are in the process, and who to contact throughout the process of becoming a Big. While matched Bigs have open lines of communication. We trust our BIGS because we’ve trained them.

LITTLES Littles trust that their conversations with staff are a safe space and we won’t share their story or traumas with Bigs unless they say it is okay.

DONORS Donors are confident that BBBSPS is stewarding their financial investments with care and intention. Donors know how their financial investments are being spent. Donors trust that their information is being stored securely.

STAFF Staff members know what is happening in all areas of the organization, what is expected of them, and freely share both successes and failures. Leaders build trust with each other and of staff. Staff and leaders trust each other to their best and assume good intent.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS The Board of Directors is knowledgeable about all the activities of BBBSPS. The Board can be counted on to follow through with their commitments.​Each member of the BOD brings their connections and relationships into the work of BBBSPS. FAMILIES Families know that they can trust us with their personal information and that by sharing it with us we are able to find them resources.

COMMUNITY The community views us as the experts/thought leaders in mentoring and that we can be counted on to deliver on our promise of serving youth with integrity.

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WE FOSTER COMMUNITY THROUGH RELATIONSHIP BUILDING We understand the significance of building strong and meaningful relationships. Relationship Building encompasses the bonds we foster with our volunteers, youth, donors, staff, board members, families, and the wider community.

We believe in focusing on building and maintaining strong relationships both inside and outside of our organization.​

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OUR VALUES

HOW WE LIVE OUR VALUES BIGS Bigs cultivate strong trusting connections with Littles, creating a sense of belonging that empowers them to dream big.

LITTLES Littles feel seen and heard in their journey with their Bigs, where their unique voices are valued and their dreams are nurtured with dignity.

DONORS Donors are the driving force behind our mission, fueling a cycle of resources that ensure every youth’s needs are met, and their aspirations are lifted to new heights.

STAFF Staff members are the heart of our organization, acting with trust, inclusion, and respect in every interaction. Our commitment – both as an employee and an employer is to build relationships.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS The Board is a guiding force, leading with strong commitment and deep engagement as resources to help the organization rise to meet needs of our youth.

FAMILIES Families entrust us implicitly with their hopes, find support, know their needs will be met.

COMMUNITY Our community understands the vital role of mentoring, Supports BBBSPS in increasing impact and partners to strengthen relationships.

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WE ARE COMMITTED TO INCLUSIVITY AND BELONGING (JEDI) We are unwavering in our commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) and these principles are integral to our mission. We firmly believe that every person should have the opportunity to reach their full potential, and we are committed to upholding JEDI principles in all aspects of our organization. We are dedicated to taking concrete actions to uphold these values both internally and externally, with a particular focus on empowering BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual, plus) individuals and other traditionally marginalized communities.

Through these actions, both internally and externally, we create a transformative environment where every person can thrive, be heard, and truly belong.​

OUR VALUES

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HOW WE LIVE OUR VALUES BIGS Bigs feel taken care of and heard. Bigs of Color and LGBTQIAA Bigs are recruited intentionally and feel that they belong with our organization. Bigs consistently see that we foster a safe space where their unique abilities and skills are celebrated.

LITTLES We match Bigs and Littles based on preferences, interests, shared life experience, and hobbies. We coordinate facilitated activities for matches to engage in throughout the community to develop their connection and provide ongoing support and training to volunteers. We ask and don’t assume.

DONORS Donors feel that they are an integral part of the mission and work of BBBSPS. All donors feel like their contributions matter and are impactful, regardless of their gift amount.

STAFF Staff are free to be their full authentic self at work. Our team’s similarities and differences are celebrated. The team sees themselves and their work as core to the mission.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Our BOD is a reflection of our community & are connected to each other as well as the staff of BBBSPS. FAMILIES Families know that we are a part of their community and do integral work within to improve and build upon it. We also bring families into our community when they engage with us and hope to make them feel included within BBBSPS. COMMUNITY The community understands that we are inclusive and are partners in serving youth.

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WE TREAT ALL WITH RESPECT AND DIGNITY We appreciate all perspectives even if they are not our own.

We practice reciprocal grace. We don’t tolerate disrespectful actions or behavior that threaten the dignity of others. We will intercede on behalf of the most marginalized in our community.

We will assume people are acting with the best of intentions.

All stakeholders will feel respected in our materials and communications.​

OUR VALUES

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HOW WE LIVE OUR VALUES BIGS Bigs know that we will listen to their perspectives, even if they differ from ours, and BBBSPS will protect our community from disrespectful behaviors.

LITTLES Littles feel heard and valued in their match preferences and know that we create a safe and inclusive space between Bigs and Littles by matching based on shared identities and preferences (race, orientation, religion, etc.)

DONORS Donors are acknowledged and appreciated for their gift. They receive stewardship and continued connection, as a way to show our respect. Donors know that every gift, regardless of amount, is highly valued and not taken for granted by BBBSPS. STAFF Leaders and Staff are acknowledged for their dedication and commitment to the mission and are treated with mutual respect in all interactions. Team members are able to grow professionally at BBBSPS. BOARD OF DIRECTORS The BOD is acknowledged for their commitment and contributions of time, talent and treasure.

Each member feels empowered to share their opinions and all are equally valued. Board has high regard for staff and seek to build relationships.

FAMILIES Families know that we will always treat them with respect. We respect their wishes and treat them in a dignified manner.

COMMUNITY The community feels respected through our events and materials. We seek their input and feedback

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WE RISE TO MEET THE NEEDS OF YOUTH We are agents of change and continual improvement. Our youth deserve nothing less than our very best effort and excellence in our work. Our work makes an impact, and we are focused on directing that impact to the greatest needs of our community. We make decisions and priorities based on the needs of youth. We have the best trained and supported volunteer mentors.​

OUR VALUES

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HOW WE LIVE OUR VALUES BIGS We provide a great Big experience because we know the catalytic power of the impact of a Big. We provide Bigs with thorough training and support in order to be the best allies possible for youth.

LITTLES We connect and collaborate with Littles ambitions to help them meet their fullest potential through their Bigs.

DONORS Donors have access to the voice and experience of young people. Donors are fully aware of the impact of their gift-giving on young people and the community at large.

STAFF BBBSPS staff look for ways to improve our work. Team members are rewarded for hard work and trying new things even if they don’t succeed. Staff are committed to show their best effort.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOD commits their time, talent and treasure to the BBBSPS mission. Each member finds ways to leverage their personal skills and networks and identifies opportunities to increase the impact of BBBSPS’s work.

FAMILIES We strive to find mentors who fit the needs of our youth, embrace parents as our partners in matching and connect families with the best possible resources within the community.

COMMUNITY We are well regarded and collaborate often with community partners and CBO. Youth are authentically front and center in our work. We speak about youth in terms of their assets and strengths.

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“IT TAKES A TEAM TO MAKE A DREAM COME TRUE”

- Anonymous

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A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT AND CEO As CEO, I firmly believe that our core values—trust & transparency, respect & dignity, relationship building, inclusivity & belonging along with rising to meet the needs of youth —are not just ideals; they are the foundation upon which we build our daily interactions and long-term goals.

These values guide us in creating an environment where every young person we serve can feel valued, understood, and empowered.

They inspire us to go beyond the expected, to challenge the status quo, and to dedicate ourselves to making a real difference in the lives of youth. Because at the heart of our mission lies a simple truth: our young people deserve nothing less than our absolute best. It is this belief that drives us forward, pushing us to innovate, to reach higher, and to continually strive to meet the unique needs of every individual with unwavering dedication.

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