Speaking on Business: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah

This is Derek Miller, Speaking on Business. Since 1978, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah has connected caring adult mentors with young people who need extra support, building one-to-one relationships that help kids grow in confidence, succeed in school and create brighter futures. President and CEO, Jill Sundstrom, joins us with more. Jill Sundstrom: Today’s youth face rising mental health challenges, widening economic gaps and ongoing absenteeism that has persisted since the pandemic. Yet research shows that mentoring through Big Brothers Big Sisters can help transform these trajectories. Mentored youth experience reduced depressive symptoms, stronger emotional regulation, improved school attendance and better academic performance. They are also 20% more likely to enroll in college and ultimately earn 15% more over their lifetimes, increasing economic mobility across Utah communities. For businesses, mentorship is a strategic investment. It helps strengthen the future workforce by building the soft skills employers need most – communication, reliability and emotional intelligence. Last Year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah served 892 youth through one-to-one mentoring. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah isn’t just changing individual lives — it’s helping build a stronger, more resilient Utah economy and community. Derek Miller: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah continues to make a lasting impact, inspiring youth, strengthening communities and opening doors to opportunity. Learn more about their programs and get involved at BBBSU.org. I'm Derek Miller, with the Salt Lake Chamber, Speaking on Business. Originally aired: 5/8/26