CORPORATE ENGAGEMENT

Big Brothers Big Sisters Columbia Northwest never charges a fee to families participating in our programs. That means that our entire operating budget comes from donations, grants, and funds raised at events. Last year, over 30% of our revenue came from our signature events.

Sponsorship of our events offers your business exposure to audiences of community-minded individuals in the Portland and Vancouver areas. However, our organization offers another unique return on investment— youth who are confident and prepared to enter adulthood, which is a benefit to our entire community.

Annual events:

• Big Futures Luncheon (April)- We turn the typical non-profit luncheon on its head! This interactive experience encourages Portland and Vancouver businesses and individuals to get creative in how they support workforce development alongside Big Brothers Big Sisters Columbia Northwest. Part networking, part learning and part brainstorming, this is an event you won’t want to miss!
• Rappel for a Reason (June)- Big Brothers Big Sisters is going to the top — the top of a 15-story Portland building, that is! Over seventy amazing local heroes will take our fundraising to new heights by raising at least $1,500 per person to go over the edge and rappel down a building. These supporters will be raising money and awareness amongst their networks of friends and family to help us match more youth in our program with adult mentors. This is a huge endeavor for us and we want you on board!
• Building Big Bridges Gala (September)- Our largest fundraising event of the year, this inspirational evening celebrates the impact of mentoring relationships. As a sponsor, you and your guests will enjoy an unforgettable experience while supporting the biggest possible future for children. Make a BIG impact by investing in the power and potential of local youth and the health and well-being of our community for generations to come.

Donations of products or services can help raise money, support youth programs, and amplify your brand.

• Auction items- We are always seeking in-kind donations of auction items for the Building Big Bridges Gala. These may include products, gift certificates, travel vouchers, etc.
• Event supplies and services- Help bring our event costs down by donating wine or spirits, printing services, event venues, etc.
• Program items or experiences- Provide a match activity for our Bigs and Littles by donating event or experience tickets, gift cards, games, holiday gifts, etc.

There are opportunities to get your employees engaged as volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters, either individually or as a group.

• Lunch and Learn- A Big Brothers Big Sisters representative will come to your workplace or host an online presentation for employees about ways they can get involved with our mission. This can be at any time of your choosing.
• Group volunteering- We also have opportunities for individual and group volunteering throughout the year. These vary. Please sign up for our email newsletter list or contact Katie MacDonald to be notified of these opportunities.

Get your customers and employees involved in supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters with cause marketing. Examples include:

• Sales Donations- Commit to donating a certain amount or percentage of sales in a specific timeframe to BBBS. For example, 10% of all sales in April or $1 from every drink on Tuesdays.
• BottleDrop- Use BBBS blue bags to collect cans and bottles. Drop off at any BottleDrop location, and the deposit will be donated to BBBS.
• Round-Up Campaigns- Ask customers to round up their purchase to the next dollar. The extra change is donated to BBBS.