The Christmas Holiday always brings to mind the gatherings of family and friends. It’s a time of joy and laughter. Happily, Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters has been able to bring our Little Brothers and Sisters and their families together with their mentors and our staff to enjoy fun, food, and gifts from Santa. These occasions create good memories for all of us. I even go back and watch videos of past parties which makes me smile.

Creating memories and introducing new experiences for our youth is our mission – it’s what we’re all about. I had a close friend ̶  who happens to be a Catholic Big Brother – share that he had dinner with his Little Brother who is a Senior in college. Bryan has found a future career he loves and will do well at it. Rich said that Bryan was always going to be on the right track and he felt he didn’t offer that much to steer Bryan in the direction of his future profession. I responded saying that Rich opened many new experiences and facets for Bryan which led him to a field of study that inspires him.

I’m lucky to be in this organization and I get to hear so many Bryan and Rich stories. Thinking back on my own life, i wonder if I inspired my daughters or fellow workers. Like Rich, I sort of diminish my role in influencing others to move in the most positive direction. But then I realize and have been told by others about that the power of presence makes a lot of difference in people’s lives. I can’t take all of the credit for our daughters’ successes but I remember that I was there at their various functions whether Girl Scouts, Tall Flags or Open Houses. Often, I was one of a few men that were there.

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

November | 2022

I walk away from a conference, a service or meeting after hearing a person’s life work or accomplishments, thinking I wish I had done more or I wish I could help more.  I’ve been blessed by the fact that my parents and family, my teachers, coaches and friends have inspired and urged me to do good.  Every time I see a Bird of Paradise flower I hear our daughter saying something important to me.  These are the times that help me to spend my time wisely and motivate me to do something for others.

Our volunteer Big Brothers and Sisters must feel that same urge to give back.  How many times have we heard them share that just the simplest experience gave a friendship with their Little Brother or Sister a new meaning?  Often, it’s the first time a child has been to Dodger Stadium or a trip to the seashore.  Maybe it was a first time going to a sit-down restaurant.

At our recent BIG Springtime Party I heard so many wonderful stories but Karla’s thankfulness for her Little Sister, Sabrina, was a story of gratefulness.  Karla was so thankful to have the experience of seeing Sabrina blossom into a college student and recently taking on a task of researching and publishing the Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters newsletter for others.  She has shared the depth of her pride in Sabrina.  She feels a gratitude and satisfaction of having paid it forward.

During this Christmas Season you too can share in Karla’s and the other Big Sisters’ and Brothers’ gratitude by being a part in helping a youth and their family experience the joy of the Holidays.  You can feel the meaning of this Christmas Season and being thankful that you helped someone else see the goodness in the world – maybe for the first time.  Walk away thinking you’ve done your part by donating so we can continue our work.  We are grateful for you and appreciate your support.

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

October | 2022

The Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters’ fundraising Golf Tournament was the biggest success we have had in a very long time.  Thanks to Board Members, Kevin Shannon for his personal and Newmark Co. contributions, Bob Makok for his personal and obtaining the Sikand and Green Oak Foundation donations, and the generous support and organizing efforts of the Golf Committee – Jim Carmack, Rick Higgins, and Evan Moran. There were many others who contributed dollars and volunteer hours to the event.  

Thanks to all who have supported our work during these very challenging times.  It takes the collaborative efforts of many organizations and individuals to help us to continue our youth programs and bring equity to the families who are in our service and the beneficiaries of our volunteer Big Brothers’ and Big Sisters’ dedicated time and friendship.

Kudos to our Finance and Human Resources Director, Alex Lopez, for discovering and accessing Federal, State and local public funds to supplant our Special Events revenues, which had to be cancelled and postponed due to the pandemic.  Just as advertised, these funds are not expected for the long run but stop-gaps to keep our needed youth services on-going.

In addition to the above supporters, thanks to Board Members Bob Klein for introducing  Providence/St. John’s contributions, Tim Macker for personal contributions, Barron DeSanctis and Kevin Walker for personal and Corporate donations, and the Corporate and Foundation support from the Carrie Estelle Doheny, CBRE, Rose Hills,  and Berkman Foundations.  Also, many thanks to Tom and Mary Hawkins for personal donations.

Looking to the future, Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters is pivoting our fundraising plans to restart our Special Events, solicit Foundations, and ask individuals to support our work through current and Estate contributions.  There have been many threats to our financial well-being over the almost 100 years of our work in Los Angeles County but none quite so major as COVID.  It’s “all hands on deck.” We will need to reinvigorate our asking because there are so many needy causes, but none quite so important as ours, that empowers community youth, through mentoring, to reach their full potential in life to become future community leaders who will pay it forward for the next generation.

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

September | 2022

September is now celebrating the work of Big Brothers Big Sisters – a national observance.  It’s more than our agencies in the BBBS Federation celebrating ourselves, it’s letting the nation know of the fine work of our volunteers and staff in helping youth reach their potential. There are ads, articles and social media posts that raise the awareness of Bigs and Littles in our programs and the positive results we achieve together. 

I had breakfast with Mike Trueblood’s daughter this morning and told her that we are honoring her father at this year’s Golf Tournament on September 12.  She got teary-eyed and we shared the many experiences we had with her dad over the years.  Mike was on our Board of Directors for several decades and was the Chair of the Board in the early 90’s. 

After many years of his involvement Mike told me, ““I’m tired of going to meetings, I want of be a Big Brother”.  We don’t hear that very often and we matched him with a Little Brother – not once but twice.  While he was mentoring his second Little Brother, we submitted him to be the Big Brother of the Year in California which he attained and went on to become National Big Brother of the Year.   The President of the United States honored Mike and his Little Brother in the White House Oval Office.

Not all of our achievements are so exalted but each event helps us spread our name.  At one of our Golf Tournaments, one of our Big Brothers shared his mentoring experiences and one of the golfers was so impressed that he asked to sponsor the next year’s Tournament – which he did for several years encouraging his business associates to join him in our support.

We appreciate our supporters and work to make sure it’s a good feeling to help our kids.  You can spread the word about the good that our volunteers perform, not just in high-profile places but even telling about your good times with us and even reposting our social media. Thanks all the way around. 

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

August | 2022

Daniel was a very shy, withdrawn young man from East LA. His Big Brother, Randy was my friend and a CBBBS Board member scheduled to become our Board Chair. Our BBBS State Association had scheduled a Capitol Advocacy Day that year. After a day of visiting legislators and staff – almost all knew Randy by first name – we were set to speak at a rally on the Capitol steps with the First Lady to the interested crowd.

Daniel stepped forward and introduced himself to the First Lady and that shy young man beckoned her to meet his Big Brother, Randy. I watched a withdrawn bud of a young man, unfold with each encounter his Big Brother and we had in the legislator’s offices. His face beamed as he said to the First Lady, “I want to introduce my Big Brother, Randy.” The meaning of our programs came to bare one more time at this moment. We were and are so proud of our mission.

The back story is that Randy came to me not really knowing what to do with a young kid. He confessed that his own father had not been very present in his life. He did have a daughter but wanted to help a boy who may have had that male void in his life too. By sharing his friendship and life environment, Randy helped a young man have a place in the sun. When the school Principal heard of Daniel’s experience, he asked him to share it with the whole student body. Daniel’s sharing was passing on what Randy had given him.

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

July | 2022

Speaking about perseverance, Helen Keller said, “A bend in the road is not the end of the road… unless you fail to make the turn.” On the road to 100 years of youth service, CBBBS has had to make the turn many times.At our Champions for Youth Gala last month, the downtown streets of Los Angeles were virtually shut down but staying the course and making the turn, the roads cleared and the event was a memorable success. Our Honorees – Bob Madok, Barron DeSanctis and Kevin Shannon of Newmark and MC Christina Pascuccci – stayed the course for the evening capping their dedication to our cause of youth mentoring. All have been with us for many years and have blended service, philanthropy, and know-how to help the underserved youth and families of Los Angels County achieve equity and success in their lives.All of you have helped us persevere. By supporting our volunteers and staff, CBBBS has received an unprecedented 9^th National Quality Award this year in Indianapolis. Recently during the Covid pandemic, the Award was earned even though CBBBS had to take a turn in the road and pivot our services. Years ago we had to restructure our programs in order to overcome a recession in the US economy. Through all of the challenges, CBBBS has maintained National BBBS Federation’s highest level of mentoring match durability.Persevere with us to reach our 100 years of service ‒ keeping youth on the road to success and making the turn to reach life’s potential.

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

June | 2022

June is a special month for my family and for the mission of Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters. It is a month to celebrate the fathers in our lives and Pride Month. Part of our mission is to serve those of all identities and for years our agency characterized our work to help the children of fatherless families.  And today many of our Little Brothers and Sisters – over 60% – live in households where there is no father. 

Having a loving father and male role model is a positive influence for youth development.  I was blessed to have a very caring and hard-working father who wanted the best for his children and provided the love and guidance for myself and sister and brother to succeed.  Among our family, we can celebrate diversity and are proud of our members who celebrate June as Pride month. Unfortunately, many of the families we serve don’t have that male source of direction and support.  Thankfully our agency is here to help.  

We have had so many examples of male role-modeling but one which we will sorely miss is our recently deceased Board member and National Big Brother of the Year, Mike Trueblood.  His funeral is this month.  Mike helped his wife Phyllis raise 4 successful adult children who have gone on to give back to the community is so many ways.  Mike adopted the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters about 60 years ago and was instrumental in my accepting of the leadership role here at CBBBS.

The ever-expanding ripple of Mike’s devotion caries on through me and all those who knew him.  He remains an exemplary father and role-model.  His selfless giving inspires me to be the best father, grandfather and great-grandfather that I can be.

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

May | 2022

My mother, Maria Socorro Fernandez, is still an inspiration though gone for many years.  She was kind, smart, a good cook, talented, and fun to be with.  She was raised in a single-parent home but she allowed me and my brother and sister to have our space and encouraged us to find our way – staying out of trouble, of course. Like all mothers, she was always thinking of others in the family first.

The month of May reminds us of the importance of mothers in our lives.  They are the image of giving.  In our programs, mothers take on even more important roles.  Whether a mother, grandmother, stepmother, or guardian, she makes a decision that her child could thrive with another adult in his or her life.  Knowing these mothers’ entrustments, Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters searches, recruits, trains and assesses the best possible role model we can find to help youth achieve their potential.  Our results are heart-warming.

At the Spring Party last month, I was privileged to speak to several mothers and a grandmother who shared that CBBBS mentoring programs have made a profound difference in their child’s life.   One mother tearfully said her daughter’s Big Sister was the key to her improving her academics and enhancing her life.  Another said her Big Brother/Sister helped her grandson to be accepted by a special high school.  Another struggling young lady was introduced to a new world of potential she would not have known but for her Big Sister.  One young man was shepherded through high school, college and now has a Master’s Degree because of his mother and his Big Brother.

Knowing how important mothers have been in our lives should inspire us to support the mothers, grandmothers and guardians in our programs.  Your gifts help CBBBS to continue our work as partners with mothers putting our youth and the community first.

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

April | 2022

April is National Volunteer Month. In the United States, launched by President George H. W. Bush in 1991 marked by his “Thousand Points of Light” campaign. Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters could not function without volunteers. Our Big Brothers and Sisters are more than just volunteers, they are super stars.

Though all of our Bigs are stars in our opinion, we have three Big Brothers who have received National Big Brothers of the Year in the White House. One of them, Mike Bowler, also received National recognition as a Point of Light Volunteer in 1990’s. Like Mike being in our Hard of Hearing program, Norma Wright was California Big Sister of the Year with her work with her deaf Little Sister. Los Angeles Business Journal awards and recognition were given to Board member Ulisses Sanchez, Big Brother Barron DeSanctis, and his company, SDI, and Big Sister Johana Hernandez’s company, GLAUDI, for their work supporting our agency’s mission to youth.

We like to tell the world about the very special work Bigs perform. Blind Big Brother Ollie Cantos was a CA State Big Brother of the Year and Board member Annemarie Dillard of the retail family was honored for her service and financial support of CBBBS.

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

March | 2022

Every day the staff and volunteers of Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters work to bring equity and to support potential in a child’s life.  We’ve been doing just that for 97 years here in Los Angeles County.  In the mid-nineteen-twenties, we began our programs at the request of the City of Los Angeles recognizing the need to provide a chance for marginalized and misdirected boys to have a successful education and future lives.  They and we realized that helping a child helps the community.

CBBBS has recognized the potential in the successes of every youth in our program regardless of race, gender, identity or belief.  Our diversity lies in the almost 100% demographic of “children of color” and equal gender balance.  Notwithstanding our dedication to all youth whoever they are, CBBBS has also had success in providing mentoring to children with disabilities and social challenges.  You can see the featured story of Juan Wilson and his Little Brother Damien below.  They were first introduced 29 years ago and remain in contact.  Juan not only was a Deaf and Hard of Hearing Big Brother but after a time became the Director of the DHH program which he led for over ten years.

You can be proud of the programs offered by CBBBS and our staff and volunteers.  Two of our Big Brothers, Vince DeBona and Mike Bowler, and four of our Little Brothers received National Awards in the White House from Presidents Bush and Clinton.  One of our Big Sisters, Norma White, was awarded California Big Sister of the Year.  CBBBS answers the call to bring Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion to the Youth, Families and Volunteers that we serve.  We show future success for them through the lens of promise not division. 

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

February | 2022

Helping to bring equity and inclusion to the people, especially the children, of Los Angeles has been the founding cornerstone of CBBBS’ mission. In 1925 so many young boys were struggling with life and family that our founders were asked by the City of Los Angeles to provide mentoring services to the under-resourced communities. Our first youth population consisted of Black and Brown boys who were struggling.

To this day almost 100% of our youth are children “of color”. Paying special attention to our Black community is high-lighted in February as part of Black History Month. This year is even more special to me since I just returned from New Orleans to witness the Pardoning of Homer Plessy, a civil rights pioneer who worked with my great-great uncle, Louis A. Martinet, to remove the Louisiana Separate Car Act. It’s taken 125 years, long after his death, to absolve Plessy of his civil rights act. Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards invited me as a representative of my family to witness the pardon.

At CBBBS it’s not our mission to right the past but to empower the youth of today and tomorrow. The story of Akeem and Nathan below shows the worth of the BBBS mentoring model as it operates with a volunteer Big and a capable youth. We all have to work together ‒ like my Uncle Louis did by organizing a Committee of Citizens to support Homer Plessy. Your volunteering and donations aide us to empower the youth of today and protect the potential of tomorrow.

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

January | 2022

January each year is designated MENTOR Month and CBBBS has participated over the years with our partners and peers to highlight the proven results of our volunteer one-to-one adult/child mentoring programs.  Several years ago some from our agency including our CA State Big Sister of the Year, Christina Pascucci, and her Little Sister Joseline, visited Sacramento to speak to legislators about our programs.  Youth mentoring needs public and private visibility and support.

Speaking out for the Common Good is imperative to heal society and bring equity to all.  I was reminded personally at the start of this year by being honored by an invitation from the Governor of Louisiana to attend the pardoning of Homer Plessy for a segregationist crime he was convicted in 1892.  My Great Uncle, Louis A. Martinet, was an organizer of the challenge to the White Car Act and thus was acclaimed with Plessy as civil rights heroes.  Both Plessy and Uncle Louis being Black, were calling attention to the inequity oppressing their New Orleans community.

Here in CA, CBBBS has been bringing academic and health equity to families in under-resourced communities in Los Angeles for almost 97 years.  We are proving the importance of youth mentoring on a daily basis through our Big Brother and Big Sister volunteers.  The results of their role-modeling and friendship are amazing.  The sequence of MENTOR Month and Black History in February should remind us of our duty to continue to bring equity to those who for whatever reason have been denied a fair chance.  Mentoring is a cost-efficient, compassionate way to level the playing field.

We ask you to be a community hero with us and support CBBBS in whatever way you can.

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

October | 2021

The Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters’ fundraising Golf Tournament was the biggest success we have had in a very long time. Thanks to Board Members, Kevin Shannon for his personal and Newmark Co. contributions, Bob Madok for his personal and obtaining the Sikand and Green Oak Foundation donations, and the generous support and organizing efforts of the Golf Committee – Jim Carmack, Rick Higgins, and Evan Moran. There were many others who contributed dollars and volunteer hours to the event.

Thanks to all who have supported our work during these very challenging times. It takes the collaborative efforts of many organizations and individuals to help us to continue our youth programs and bring equity to the families who are in our service and the beneficiaries of our volunteer Big Brothers’ and Big Sisters’ dedicated time and friendship.

Kudos to our Finance and Human Resources Director, Alex Lopez, for discovering and accessing Federal, State and local public funds to supplant our Special Events revenues, which had to be cancelled and postponed due to the pandemic. Just as advertised, these funds are not expected for the long run but stop-gaps to keep our needed youth services on-going.

In addition to the above supporters, thanks to Board Members Bob Klein for introducing Providence/St. John’s contributions, Tim Macker for personal contributions, Barron DeSanctis and Kevin Walker for personal and Corporate donations, and the Corporate and Foundation support from the Carrie Estelle Doheny, CBRE, Rose Hills, and Berkman Foundations. Also, many thanks to Tom and Mary Hawkins for personal donations.

Looking to the future, Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters is pivoting our fundraising plans to restart our Special Events, solicit Foundations, and ask individuals to support our work through current and Estate contributions. There have been many threats to our financial well-being over the almost 100 years of our work in Los Angeles County but none quite so major as COVID. It’s “all hands on deck.” We will need to reinvigorate our asking because there are so many needy causes, but none quite so important as ours: empowering and inspiring youth to reach their full potential in life and thus, “pay it forward” to the community.

(Event Photos)

-Ken Martinet Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

September | 2021

Our Los Angeles community is experiencing the end of a baseball season and the phrase, “keep your eye on the ball” comes to mind. I remember adults telling me that when I was growing up. Of course, they were encouraging me to keep to the task and work for a good academic result.

The Dodgers and Lakers, among other donors, supported Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters and other local mentoring organizations to distribute school backpacks to the underserved youth in the Los Angeles community. Hundreds of youth and families attended the drive-through at our office to receive attractive backpacks and interesting related items, i.e. calculators and alarm clocks to name several, to help them get through their upcoming studies.

Our Little Brothers and Sisters always do well in their studies due in large to the mentoring of their Big Brothers’ and Big Sisters’ and our excellent staff’ encouragement. Several of our new graduating Littles are going to Eastern schools on scholarships and local students are receiving financial assistance. We are very proud of our graduating Littles. Almost all of our youth have to overcome challenges in the schools and communities where they live.

The challenge of blindness did not deter our Big Brother Ollie. He has worked as a lawyer in the top levels of the Federal Government – even in the White House – and has been a Big Brother to several of our Little Brothers. While in Washington DC he mentored blind triplet brothers and they too are doing well and attending college. We are proud of how our mission has spread to help so many youth. We had a very inspiring conversation with Ollie last week and we are always amazed at his accomplishments. Being blind, his phrase is “keeping your ear to the ground.”

Whatever phrase you remember to spur you on, remember our mission of helping youth and their families to receive equitable academic and healthcare treatment in our community. You can do this by “keeping your eye on the ball,” or “ear to the ground.” Our hope is that you support us in our mission to help youth reach their potential in life.

-Ken Martinet Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

August | 2021

It used to be that August was a month when young people enjoyed the last vestiges of summer. Now it seems like they are getting ready to go back to the classroom – that is if they are allowed to go back to the school without restrictions. Children’s lives are more unsettled and confused these days.

During the pandemic, our Bigs, Littles and Staff have pivoted and taken up new ways of meeting with each other. We have added Zoom events and made use of devices to keep the partnerships progressing. It’s worked and we’re proud of all.

Our staff and volunteers recently experienced the graduation celebration of our Little Brothers and Little Sisters. We couldn’t be prouder. Though the pandemic has changed so many of our routines and protocols, several of our graduating Littles have received scholarships – one to Carelton University in Minnesota and one to Drexel University in Pennsylvania and others are attending California Universities and Community Colleges.

Since 1925, we have provided youth with mentors to empower the potential within them. We are on the Road to 100 years and we know that the presence of just one caring adult mentor– a Big Brother or Big Sister ‒ can change a child’s life direction and help place them on a path to success.
-Ken Martinet Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

July | 2021

The work we do is a privilege. We have the opportunity to watch as youth receive the gift of time and good examples as they grow up in some under-resourced communities. The instruments of our work are the volunteers – our Big Brothers and Big Sisters. So often we hear from them that they too receive benefits from their spending time with a youth in our program – our Little Brothers and Little Sisters.

Just last weekend we enjoyed the sharing of Bigs, Littles and parents at our 2021 Match Graduation Virtual Ceremony. Several are going to superb Universities, a couple on scholarship, and State or Community Colleges. The fields of study are impressive, and they articulated their pursuits and dreams so well. Our wonderful staff are always elated to hear the testimonies. Mothers and volunteers also chime in about how much they have received from the program. They tell of a feeling of gratification at being present as the flower of maturity blossoms.

Receiving inspiration from his single mother, Big Brother Andrew, a successful media manager, shared how he was driven to give his time to help a young man through mentoring, Diego, do well and succeed. He wanted to “Pay It Forward”. He revealed that he received so much from Diego too in terms of enjoyment and a healthy lifestyle.

Stories like these help us to do our best too. Last week we received our 8th consecutive National Quality Award. That puts our agency in the top 3% of the 300 BBBS agencies in the U.S. You can be proud of Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters and our staff, Board, Youth and our Volunteers. To support and sustain our work with more youth – see the information about our upcoming Virtual Wine & Cheese tasting and Magic Show on July 17th.

-Ken Martinet Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

June | 2021

June is a special month for my family and for the mission of Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters. It is a month to celebrate the fathers in our lives and Pride Month. Part of our mission is to serve those of all identities and for years our agency characterized our work to help the children of fatherless families. And today many of our Little Brothers and Sisters – over 60% – live in households where there is no father.

Having a loving father and male role model is a positive influence for youth development. I was blessed to have a very caring and hard-working father who wanted the best for his children and provided the love and guidance for myself and sister and brother to succeed. Among our family, we celebrate diversity and are proud of our members who celebrate June as Pride month. Unfortunately, many of the families we serve don’t have that male source of direction and support. Thankfully our agency is here to help.

We have had so many examples of male role-modeling but one which we will sorely miss is our recently deceased Board member and National Big Brother of the Year, Mike Trueblood. His funeral is this month. Mike helped his wife Phyllis raise 4 successful adult children who have gone on to give back to the community in so many ways. Mike adopted the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters about 60 years ago and was instrumental in my accepting of the leadership role here at CBBBS. The ever-expanding ripple of Mike’s devotion caries on through me and all those who knew him. He remains an exemplary father and role-model. His selfless giving inspires me to be the best father, grandfather and great-grandfather that I can be.

-Ken Martinet Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

May | 2021

We’re in between two important months in the life of Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters – April is National Volunteer Month and May is the month we celebrate Mother’s Day. For me there’s a close connection.

As you know, our mentoring work with children is carried out by volunteers which is a priceless show of human kindness. We respect and applaud their work. And then I think of the many mothers I have known, my wife, my mother, my teachers and friends, and the many mothers in our mentoring programs. I think of their sacrifices – often taking care of others first before themselves, working and running a household so often volunteering at their children’s schools or activities and seeking the best programs for the children in their lives.

We have the opportunity to meet some very dedicated mothers – sometimes they are grandmothers or foster/kinship-care women who want more for the children they care for. One mother applied for Big Brothers for 2 of her sons. Her family was broken and she had to work several jobs to have food and shelter for her family. She could not provide the experiences her sons needed to know the opportunities available because of little time or money. She also wanted them to see a larger world than she could provide. Her sons were matched with mentors, are continuing through high school to graduate and considering choices in law enforcement and military. She thanks us for our program and the Big Brothers for their mentorship and presence within her family.

My hat’s off to the many mothers – in every form. They are special to us and to the youth in their families. We owe them our best efforts to provide mentoring adults who can open the world of opportunities and show their Little Brothers and Sisters the potential prospects for a successful life.

-Ken Martinet Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

April | 2021

I had a friend ask me recently about the popularity of the Basketball Sister Jean. Why me? Well, Sr. Jean was my 8th Grade teacher and a true inspiration in my life. She spent extra time outside of normal class hours to tutor expected graduates for upcoming high school Entrance Exams.

Though high school graduates — my father a tradesman and my mother from an immigrant family —the ways of studying for entrance exams were not in their knowledge base. So, Sr. Jean became my academic mentor. She not only tutored us but she personally encouraged us. I think back on how blessed I was to have my parents and Sr. Jean in my life.

As you probably know, Sr Jean is still active by giving encouragement and support to her Loyola of Chicago Ramblers Basketball players at the age of 101. So, my quick answer to my friend was, “endurance”. Sr Jean has stayed the course in the good and bad times and offered her support when bad times and praise when good times. Her motto of perseverance and endurance is, “Worship, Work, Win”.

After reaching 26 years of leading Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, I began thinking about what keeps me here doing my job. Certainly, it’s not my doing that thousands of youth have been mentored by Big Brothers and Big Sisters, just as Sr. Jean did for her students, but it’s staying in touch with selfless volunteers in service with their youth mentees or volunteers on our Board of Directors.

Every youth graduate from our program goes on to higher education or a career. They earn more because of their perseverance and they save the community from wear and tear and cost of possible victimization or incarceration. They all make me feel like I’m a winner. Our staff feels the same way – one having almost 27 years of service, one with over 30 years with Big Brothers Big Sisters, and another with 20 years with our agency.

Our professional team, the many Board members, some of whom have been with us for over 30 years and many over 20, are all encouraging your support of our very important work of bringing equity to youth and their families in these challenging times. Help us to continue our winning ways on the Road to 100 years.

-Ken Martinet Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

March | 2021

We hope you can share our pride. We were notified by the California Federation of Big Brothers Big Sisters that our Big Brother and Board Secretary, Barron De Sanctis, and his Little Brother, Azeal, were chosen this Year’s Big/Little Brothers of the Year – our third year in a row. This is not a small fete in that there are approximately 10,000 volunteers and youth to choose from each year. All of the twelve Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies have so many wonderful stories to share about success in helping youth reach their life potential.

CBBBS never wants to become complacent about the service our volunteers provide – they are all winners in the minds and hearts of the children, families, the agency and our Board of Directors, and communities we’ve served for 96 years in Los Angeles. This is not our first Rodeo. We’ve had nine California Bigs of the Year, including a blind Big Brother, a Big Brother and a Sister for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, a High School Big Sister, now a Social Worker in her community, a Senior Big Brother, a current network News reporter and anchor, and many other outstanding Bigs in the community. All are important success stories in bringing equity to the underserved and fostering youth life potential.

Our peerless success has been acclaimed at the National levels also. Our Big Brothers of the Year for 1990, 1999 and 2011 were received in the White House – even the Oval Office! Our Bigs have been acknowledged for their selfless service to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and children of the incarcerated. Though not our aim, CBBBS feels very blessed to have had such distinguishable volunteers who bring health and academic equity to those on the margins.

Our celebration includes you too. In whatever way you have become associated with our mission – feel the same pride that we have in supporting the mission of serving our youth and communities. Congratulations and please pass our common success on to your friends and followers.

-Ken Martinet Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

February | 2021

Life seems to be challenging and unsettled these days. There are tragedy and job loss, health and political issues ever present. At Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters we offer stability to youth and their families even during turbulent times. As an example, we recently received a Semi-Annual report from an antique dealer which outlines the agency’s services in 1929 – 1930.

Back then as Catholic Big Brothers, the then Chair of the Board proffered, “…there is a time in every boy’s life when he seeks a man upon whom to mold his character.” Now serving girls and women, our role has not changed but our delivery has gone through many improvements and pivots. Big Brothers and Big Sisters are still volunteering their time to help others in the community. Most of our children are faced with challenges but with the mentoring provided by our Bigs and the support of our staff, they are achieving their life’s potential.

Our reports show better academics, staying away from risky behaviors, and superior levels of High School Graduation. This doesn’t just happen, it’s our volunteers led by our professional staff, and the financial donations of important donors that support our work that make it happen. Today when our Big s and Littles can’t meet face to face, we continue our necessary work and achieve the successes that were envisioned in 1929-1930.

-Ken Martinet Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

January | 2021

In the midst of the National crisis, we received this note from a mother in our program, “thank you very much for our Christmas gifts…may God always bless you so that you continue with this program helping more families… I am very happy that my girls are in this program.”We call upon our volunteer Bigs and Board of Directors, our staff and our families to support the work of inspiring children to reach their potential. The results of your support inspire our young people and encourages them to a life of meaningful work and service—but it will take all of us as no one organization or one person can do this alone. We need each other more than ever to provide the vital mentoring programs that serve the most vulnerable young people and families in our communities.

Today’s stark reminders show us why Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters exists; that it’s during our greatest challenges that young people need us most. And that they know there are positive adults ¬ Bigs – that they can talk to and depend on to help them navigate the uncertainties and inequities they encounter in the community.

Next month, Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters will reach its 96th year of serving the Los Angeles region. Let’s stand together, focused on the Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters mission to our Littles and shape new generations and inspire the best from our great communities for years to come. Our Littles will remember who called to help, who rushed in to aid, and who stood up to build power for their future at this moment when they needed us most.

-Ken Martinet Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

December | 2020

Giving Season is upon us. We know there are many organizations you can give to and we hope to be included in your charitable giving. CBBBSLA is a non-profit organization that helps youth, of all beliefs, backgrounds and identities in Los Angeles County, reach their fullest potential through one-to-one mentoring relationships. Indeed, 100% of the children matched with a CBBBSLA mentor graduate from high school, and their lives are changed forever.

Working in partnership and augmenting the activities of our volunteer mentors, our staff is adding to the virtual experience of our youth. We are productively continuing our mission and we need your help more than ever to support our work, provide enhanced virtual activities and match more children with mentors. Whatever you can give helps.

For example CBBBS matches and families participated in a Bottle Rocket Quest with engineers from Northrop Grumman Corporation! Manuel Carrasco, one of our own grown Little Brothers & adult Big Brother, along with fellow professional engineers from the Adelante Northrop Grumman group taught us about science, space exploration and careers in technology with a virtual guided bottle rocket experiment and launch. We appreciate their partnership and the knowledge they provided our group

CBBBSLA believes that all kids deserve to experience the joy that comes with having a mentor especially during these trying times. On behalf of Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters of Los Angeles County, we thank you in advance and welcome your generosity this challenging Christmas season.

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

November | 2020

Giving Season is upon us. We know there are many organizations you can give to and we hope to be included in your charitable giving. As you know, CBBBSLA is a non-profit organization that helps youth, of all beliefs, backgrounds and identities in Los Angeles County, reach their fullest potential through one-to-one mentoring relationships. Indeed, 100% of the children matched with a CBBBSLA mentor graduate from high school, and their lives are changed forever.

Working in partnership and augmenting the activities of our volunteer mentors, our staff is adding to the virtual experience of our youth. We are productively continuing our mission and we need your help more than ever to support our work, provide enhanced virtual activities and match more children with mentors. Whatever you can give helps.

For example CBBBS matches and families participated in a Bottle Rocket Quest with engineers from Northrop Grumman Corporation! Manuel Carrasco, one of our own grown Little Brothers & adult Big Brother, along with fellow professional engineers from the Adelante Northrop Grumman group taught us about science, space exploration and careers in technology with a virtual guided bottle rocket experiment and launch. We appreciate their partnership and the knowledge they provided our group.

CBBBSLA believes that all kids deserve to experience the joy that comes with havinga mentor especially during these trying times. On behalf of Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters of Los Angeles County, we thank you in advance and welcome your generosity this challenging Christmas season.

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

October | 2020

This year has been one like no other. With the menacing health threat of the Corona virus and the civil unrest, the children, families and communities we serve need our help more than ever. We have not only pivoted our programs to accommodate distance mentoring but have also become advocates of survival assistance. Primarily our children are safely monitored and mentored ensuring the opportunities of a chance to achieve life’s potential.

CBBBS is providing access referrals for food, healthcare and social services for those hit hardest by the pandemic and economic disasters. Now we need your financial support the most. In less than one month, our agency and our supporters will be delivering food and gifts to the families in our programs. Last year we served almost 500 individuals at our Holiday Christmas party. We hope to reach the same number this year in a drive through format.

This can only be successful with your help. Santa can only do so much by socially distancing! Through the unselfish work of our volunteers and guidance of our professional staff, youth are finding life’s success and giving back to the community.

For example, Stephanie Jarin and her daughter Bella have volunteered at our office in previous years to prep for our Holiday events and purchase winter coats for designated families. They are offering the help again before the Holiday event. They want to help those affected by the current situation even more this year. They know that our programs work and that almost 100% of our Littles graduate from High School and go on to further their education.

For details on ways to support our efforts visit www.catholicbigbrothers.org.

-Ken Martinet
Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

September | 2020

A very BIG thanks to our friend and well known artist Marijane Hebert for conducting a group painting session and for sponsoring the supplies for our Bigs and Littles. Painting is a fun and interactive way to relieve stress and expand and cultivate creative and emotional growth. While providing a creative outlet for our matches, every mentor and mentee had a great time and showcased their artistic talent.

Schools not being totally open, CBBBS uses distance methods and when face-to-face mentoring is possible again, we are committed to provide the additional support needed to ensure these relationships stay strong during these uncertain times.

The talent was beaming through the screens for this session, we couldn’t be more proud with the final paintings. All were inspired. Many thanks Marijane and we look forward to the nest session.

-Ken Martinet Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters, CEO/President

August | 2020

Thanks to your support, we have been able to pivot our services and even improve the mission of helping our youth to find their way in these very challenging times. Though their lives are getting harder to navigate because many live in confined conditions with little access to resources, having an adult mentor is a blessing many parents/guardians have said. We are still able to screen, train, orient adult volunteers and match them to a waiting youth in need of a role model today. In fact, because of the social awareness of giving back and wanting to help to bring equity to underserved youth, our number of volunteer inquiries has increased – especially our much-needed male volunteers.

Another dimension is that our Professional staff has taken up the challenge to provide even more resources to the Big/Little pairs because they can’t meet with each other for now. They are sending referrals for food, supplies and community resources to families. They are organizing creative ZOOM activities that are educational and recreational for the mentoring matches to continue their relationship  development during this social distant time. Our work has pivoted from encouraging potential to adding a source of survival.

In several Newsletters our staff has produced, there is pertinent information helping graduates to transition to college. Advice about virtual learning, searching for financial aid, registration and orientation has been sent to our youth. Likewise, advice for transitioning High School students regarding college and career planning, lists and virtual college tour sources, comparisons of costs and academic ratings, steps for applying, writing personal statements, test preparation, and choosing a future path are provided to our matches to review and follow through newsletters and personal advice. Encouragement is given to younger students to do well in school, consider their interests and choose courses and actions wisely, meet teachers and get involved in extra-curricular activities.

Working in partnership and augmenting the activities of our volunteer mentors, our staff is adding to the virtual experience of our youth. In one case a graduating Little Sister has been able to enter college – the first in her family – with the caring advice of her CBBBS staff consultant. In many cases the staff is taking up the role of the volunteer due to the “distancing” protocols. The bottom line is that we are productively continuing our mission and we need your help more than ever to support our work and provide enhanced virtual activities.

– Ken Martinet, Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters CEO/President