The challenges facing young people today are growing—and their worlds are becoming more complex. Every day, barriers to opportunity rise higher, making it harder for youth to access the support they need to thrive. Across Maine, too many young people are growing up in what we call an opportunity desert—a landscape where guidance and positive role models can be hard to find.

Right now, approximately 10,000 young people in our region are navigating at least one major life challenge without the steady support of a mentor.

Little Sister Laila was once one of them. Before being matched with her Big Sister, Laila struggled to believe in herself and her future. Today, she’s a confident high school graduate, enrolled in college, and ready to take on whatever comes next, thanks in part to the consistent encouragement and friendship of her Big Sister.

Mentorship is simple, yet profoundly powerful. When supported by a caring adult, a young person's confidence grows, their goals expand, and their potential shines. Together, we can ensure every child experiences that same spark.

We invite you to join us in building a community that sees young people as they are—full of promise, potential, and possibility.