Kaufman Rossin in the Community: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami

Deborah Young of Kaufman Rossin talks about her involvement in the community.

Which organization are you involved in and what is its objective?

I’m involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami. Our objective is making Miami a more incredible city for incredible kids. We are the only non-profit organization that seeks to strengthen, develop and secure our future by matching vulnerable at-risk children with committed mentors who invest time, thought and resources – one child and afternoon at a time. These investments make Miami a more extraordinary place for kids to grow up in.

What is your role with the organization?

I’m an agency board member and a Big Sister in the School To Work Program.

Tell us about the School To Work program.

Kaufman Rossin is involved in the School To Work Program, where employee mentors are paired with high school students at their work sites for four hours a month during the school year. Last year was Kaufman Rossin’s first time participating in the program, and it was a great success and an extremely rewarding experience for both the mentors and mentees. We matched 40 mentors and mentees, and I am hoping we can significantly increase the number of employees participating in this program this upcoming school year.

What inspired you to host a school supply drive at Kaufman Rossin?

Our kids often do not have the resources for basic school supplies. Big Brothers Big Sisters organizes an annual back-to-school supply drive to help our kids get ready for the school year. Last year, we were able to provide more than 300 of our “Littles” with backpacks filled with school supplies. I thought it would be a great idea to collect items at the firm because our employees are very philanthropic. Also, many have school-aged children and can relate to the back-to-school experience.

How have these initiatives impacted the community?

Big Brothers Big Sisters serves more than 7,000 children, volunteers and families each year, and one-on-one mentoring changes the lives of the “Littles” as well as the “Bigs.” There is an intangible yet emotional impact of the program on its participants. However, the Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring approach also has a tangible impact. Through the organization’s efforts, we’ve helped students excel academically all while inspiring them to discover their passions and purpose. Research from the 2014-2015 academic school year reveals our impact: 87% of students improved or maintained academic performance, 76% improved or maintained school attendance, 94% showed improvement in behavioral evaluation and 99% of students proceeded to the next grade level.