The little things in life can make a big difference.

If the "little things" are defined as children needing a one-to-one relationship with an adult, and if the "big differences" are those adults who take the time to mentor a child, then you've got the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Washington.

"What we do is make a positive and measurable change in children," Jessi Brown, development assistant and a Big Sister, said.

"The one-to-one relationship you have with a child makes a difference."

Located at 1802 Black Lake Blvd SW in Olympia, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Washington provides children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one mentoring relationships.

For those thinking of contributing to Big Brothers Big Sisters, its Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) donation number is 73242.

"We are proud of the fact we're making a positive impact on children and empowering them to succeed," Brown added.

Research backs up this claim.

A national study showed the positive relationships between "Littles" (the children) and the "Bigs" (the adult "brothers" or "sisters") have a measurable impact on children's lives.

Little Brothers and Little Sisters were found to be more confident in their schoolwork, able to better get along with their families, were 46 percent less likely to begin to use drugs, 27 percent less likely to begin consuming alcohol, and 52 percent less likely to skip school.

"I can relate stories of how Big Brothers and Big Sisters have a helped their Little Brother or Little Sister," Brown continued.

She pointed out how one Little Brother wants to attend West Point and how several Little Sisters are on the fast track to attending college.

"The relationship they have with their "Bigs" is significant, and it shows," Brown added.

She also pointed out that over 80 percent of the CFC funds the organization receives goes directly to mentoring programs.

"The little things we do in life make a big difference."

For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Washington, call (360) 943-0409, ext. 116 or visit www.swwabigs.org.