Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Transforming Lives Through Youth Mentoring
Founded in 1904, Big Brothers Big Sisters Of South Texas has dedicated over a century to empowering youth through transformative mentoring relationships. Our mission centers on providing children facing adversity with professionally supported, one-to-one mentoring connections that foster lifelong success. Guided by principles of communication, commitment, and fairness, we prioritize creating safe, enduring relationships that address academic struggles, low self-esteem, and systemic challenges like poverty and family incarceration. With a performance-driven approach, we measure impact through proven outcomes: 98% graduation rates in targeted programs, significant reductions in juvenile justice referrals, and measurable improvements in academic performance.Our team of experienced professionals and 1,000+ volunteers deliver culturally competent programming across six regions, including specialized initiatives like Youth Enrichment Workshops and evidence-based parenting resources. As an affiliate of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, we combine national expertise with localized execution to strengthen communities through youth development.
Services
Youth Mentoring Programs
Volunteer Screening Services
Parent Workshops
Youth Enrichment Workshops
School-Based Mentoring
Community-Based Mentoring
Cultural Competency Training
Youth Development Resources
Parenting Support Programs
Volunteer Orientation Sessions
Details
- Year established: 1904
Highlights and features
- Proven 98% high school graduation rate in targeted programs
- Evidence-based mentoring reduces juvenile justice referrals by 77%
- Specialized programs for children of incarcerated parents
- Culturally competent training for 1,000+ screened volunteers
- Community partnerships with 50+ local organizations
Services
Youth Mentoring Programs
We create professionally supported one-to-one mentoring relationships for children ages 5-16 facing adversity. Our community-based and school-based programs connect youth with screened adult volunteers through structured activities. Mentors commit to minimum one-year relationships with monthly meetings, focusing on academic support, life skills development, and positive decision-making. This evidence-based approach has demonstrated 98% high school graduation rates and significant reductions in juvenile justice involvement.
Volunteer Screening Services
Our comprehensive volunteer screening process includes application review, personal interviews, reference checks, and background investigations. We conduct criminal history checks while recognizing rehabilitation, maintaining safety through ongoing training and support. Volunteers must be 18+, high school graduates with stable life circumstances. This rigorous process ensures 1,000+ screened mentors annually, with 77% retention rates for full program benefits.
Youth Enrichment Workshops
Interactive group sessions for ages 12-17 build social capital and life skills through structured curriculum. Workshops focus on mentorship readiness, goal setting, and community engagement. Participants develop confidence, expand networks, and gain tools for academic and personal success. These sessions complement one-to-one mentoring by creating peer support systems and reinforcing positive behaviors through experiential learning activities.
Parent Workshops
Our Raising Highly Capable Kids program provides parenting education on child development and trauma effects. Sessions cover the 40 Developmental Assets framework, stress management techniques, and community resource connections. Parents gain practical tools to enhance family relationships while accessing support networks. Program participants report 84% reduced stress levels and 85% improved goal achievement for their families.
Cultural Competency Training
Specialized training modules prepare mentors for effective cross-cultural relationships. Content covers privilege awareness, communication strategies, and cultural sensitivity. Participants learn to navigate socioeconomic differences while building trust with youth and families. This training ensures 98% program retention rates among diverse populations, including Hispanic and African American communities facing systemic barriers.
People
Denise Barkhurst
President & CEO
Leading Big Brothers Big Sisters Of South Texas since 2012, Denise brings 25+ years of nonprofit leadership experience. She oversees strategic growth and program implementation across six regions while maintaining national accreditation standards. Her focus on data-driven outcomes has expanded youth services by 40% since 2018.
Chuck Altmiller
Chief Financial Officer
Managing financial operations since 2015, Chuck ensures fiscal responsibility across $5M+ annual budgets. He oversees grant compliance and donor stewardship while maintaining 92% program expense ratio. His expertise in nonprofit accounting strengthens organizational sustainability.
Clare McCoy
Chief Mentoring Officer
With 18 years in youth development, Clare directs mentoring program quality and volunteer training. She implements evidence-based practices that achieved 98% graduation rates in targeted initiatives. Her team trains 1,000+ mentors annually through specialized curriculum modules.
Hugh Hawthorne Farr
Chief Development Officer
Leading fundraising efforts since 2017, Hugh manages $2.8M annual campaigns. He cultivates corporate partnerships and donor relationships that increased contributions by 35% last fiscal year. His strategic outreach expands community engagement across six service regions.
Jessica Gonzalez
Chief of Staff
Coordinating organizational operations since 2019, Jessica ensures program alignment with strategic goals. She manages cross-departmental initiatives and board relations while maintaining 95% volunteer satisfaction rates through improved support systems.
Questions
How does the mentoring program work?
We match children ages 5-16 with screened adult volunteers for one-to-one mentoring relationships. Matches meet monthly for structured activities focusing on academic support, life skills, and positive decision-making.
What volunteer requirements exist?
Volunteers must be 18+, high school graduates, commit to one-year matches, and complete criminal background checks. No prior experience needed - we provide comprehensive training and support.
How are mentors and mentees matched?
We consider personality, interests, and location preferences. Parents/guardians approve all matches. Our staff facilitates introductions and provides ongoing support throughout the relationship.
What youth outcomes have been measured?
98% high school graduation rates, 77% reduction in juvenile justice referrals, and significant academic improvements. 85% of parents report improved family goal achievement through our programs.
Are there family participation requirements?
Parents attend orientation and safety training. They receive regular updates about their child's progress and can participate in parenting workshops like Raising Highly Capable Kids.
What geographic areas are served?
We operate in San Antonio, Texas Hill Country, Coastal Bend, Brazos Valley, Comal & Guadalupe Counties, and Uvalde. Each region offers tailored programs through local branch offices.
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