Heart of Iowa BBBS History

Big Brothers Big Sisters originated in 1972 in Marshall County when a group of concerned citizens recognized that some young people in our community needed a one-to-one, man-to-boy relationship. Big Brothers was founded to serve that purpose. It has been said by past Directors that the program started 'out of a brown bag' that they carried around with everything they'd need to interview and help match Littles and Bigs. Big Sisters was added in 1975 and united into a single corporation.  Since 2004 the agency has been named Heart of Iowa Big Brothers Big Sisters. We are an affiliate of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and Iowa Mentor.
 
Through the development of various community, corporate and private partnerships, BBBS has grown significantly since it was founded. We serve youth in Marshalltown Community Schools, BCLUW Schools, West Marshall Schools and all across Marshall County.  In the past the program averaged 50 matches/month, but now we average over 120 matches/year.  

Big Brothers Big Sisters targets youth from 6 years old through graduation from high school.  Big Brothers Big Sisters works closely with parents, teachers, and other school personnel to match every child with the right Big Brother or Big Sister.  ​