DECEMBER 2022 ISSUE

Dear friend,

I have been anxiously working on this – my first letter to you as the new President and CEO of Big Sister Boston. There is so much I want to share with you about who I am.

Being of service is important to me. I was taught at a young age that sharing with others is important – that, when you give to others what you have – your time, your skills, your energy, your money, your passion, you too will be fulfilled. I try every day to live by this guiding principle to be in service to others, in my community, when I was in my classroom or on the Boston City Council, and now here at Big Sister Boston. I want to be in service for you and with you - all of you that make Big Sister this amazing organization that is 100% invested in girls.

I am inspired by the legacy of Deb Re’s leadership, her 16-year commitment, and the over 20,000 girls served. I am committed to working alongside every member of Big Sister’s dedicated team and all of you. Together we will continue to build and expand the reach of this organization to provide Greater Boston’s girls with supportive mentoring relationships with a caring adult.

As an organization, we know that by age 13, girls are more likely to suppress their own wants and needs in favor of others. Even as early as age 6 girls are less likely to view their own gender as brilliant. And, sadly we also know that teen girls are 3 times more likely than boys to experience depression. We also know that with a Big Sister by her side, a girl thrives with increased confidence that enables her to improve academically, have better parent and peer relationships, and make healthy decisions for herself.

You believe in what is possible when we invest in our girls and young women – and I am so grateful for your continued impact on the lives of so many. Less than 2% of philanthropic dollars in this country are directed towards girl- and women-serving organizations. Thank you for being the exception to that rule, for insisting that girls have the attention and resources to thrive.

In the weeks and months to come, as I get to know the Big Sister community and work with our team, I will lean on you for help. During this period of transition, I want to hear from you, to learn from your experiences with Big Sister and to understand your thoughts and perspectives. And with the continued gifts of your time, your skills, your energy, your money, your passion, we can do so much more. 

I hope you find joy in this holiday season and happiness in the new year ahead! 

Annissa Essaibi George
President & CEO, Big Sister Boston

'Tis the Season!

There are several ways to support our mission and our Little Sisters and their families this holiday season! See below for some of our options for donating to Big Sister Boston during this time of giving.

Donate Your Gently Used Items!

Out with the old, in with the new? An upcoming new year is the perfect time to clean out those closets! Donate your gently used clothing and household items to the Big Brother Big Sister Foundation.