Press release from Big Brothers Big Sisters of the North Coast:

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the North Coast (BBBSNC) announces, with deep gratitude and heavy hearts, that following careful deliberation, the Board of Directors has voted to permanently close the organization after 57 years of service to youth, families, volunteers, and the greater Humboldt County community.

This decision follows the loss of primary operational funding that sustained the organization’s core services. Despite extensive efforts to secure replacement funding and reduce expenses, the Board determined there was no viable or responsible path forward that would allow BBBSNC to continue providing mentoring services at the level of quality, safety, and support that youth deserve. As a result of the closure, this year’s Bowl For Kids’ Sake fundraiser has been canceled. Any contributions already received for this year’s event will be fully refunded. This event has long been a beloved community tradition and a critical source of support for the agency for the last 42 years. BBBSNC extends heartfelt gratitude to the thousands of supporters, donors, businesses, volunteers, and families who have helped ignite the potential of local youth for nearly six decades. We are profoundly grateful for every Big, every Little, every donor, and every partner who made this mission possible.

The organization is committed to an orderly and responsible wind-down. Staff is focused on concluding existing matches with care and compassion. While this was a difficult decision, the BBBSNC board is proud of the fact that the lives of thousands of families in this community have been positively impacted over nearly six decades of work. BBBSNC recognizes the impact of this closure on the community and appreciates the understanding and support shown during this challenging time.