Today is a turning point for Big Brothers Big Sisters Orange County and the Inland Empire. We’ve been entrenched in the OC community for many years, with the support of local and national businesses alike. But never before have we been privileged to work with someone so impactful on a global scale: Mike Trout, outfielder for the Los Angeles Angels, has chosen to partner with BBBS of OC & the IE in support of the organization. We’re so thrilled to be working with someone who is a superstar both on and off the field.

By 2014, Mike had already been named American League’s Most Valuable Player. You don’t have to be an Angels fan to acknowledge this young legend’s talents and class.

We are proud that Mike selected BBBS of OC & the IE, and we’re so honored to be working with one of the most positive role models in baseball today. He’s excited to bring awareness to the power of mentoring for youth facing adversity, and he’ll be showing his support through his personal social media channels.

Although never directly involved in the program, Mike’s connection with BBBS is a natural one. He’s been lucky enough to have many mentors throughout his life and realizes the positive impact they’ve had in shaping the person he is today. Recognizing that not every child receives that kind of support, he wants to use his voice as a rallying cry to secure more mentors for the Orange County and Inland Empire communities.

Mentoring truly works—this isn’t a proof of concept. When matched with a mentor in our program, 98 percent of children graduate from high school on time, and 90 percent enroll in college. Mentees report that they have a better attitude toward school, higher self-esteem and improved academic performance—all resulting from that connection.

We’re constantly looking for ways to expand our reach and help more children so we can continue with what we know works. Teaming up with Mike will increase awareness nationally and allow us to serve more children locally.

You’ve heard our push to secure enough mentors to serve our waiting list of children. We believe that working with Mike will allow us to fill the gaps and serve every boy and girl that wants a mentor.

We couldn’t be more excited to begin this partnership and take Big Brothers Big Sisters to the next level. If you’d like to get involved, go to ocbigs.org/miketrout.