Kayla Minchew was appointed Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Permian Basin on Sept. 30, 2024. A native of Seminole, Texas, she graduated from West Texas A&M University and holds a background in music therapy. Her career has been focused on nonprofit work, particularly providing mental health and disability support for children and adults.
Minchew’s commitment to nonprofit service is personal. “I feel like I have been called to be a servant and to serve others, and I think that is what nonprofits are for,” she told Midland Times. This sense of purpose has guided her career, shaping her dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.
When asked what inspired her to work in youth mentorship, Minchew said it was the Brothers Big Sisters’ monumental impact in creating positive change in the community through mentorship. “It feels good to know that what I’m doing is helping to improve the lives of others,” she said.
One of Minchew’s primary goals for the organization to achieve is to expand the number of volunteers who serve as mentors to local youth. In 2024, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Permian Basin reached a milestone by serving over 100 children for the first time in its history. However, more than 50 children remain on the waiting list for mentors. Minchew discussed her desire for the organization, with the help of the community, to address this gap. “There is a need for those 1:1 mentorship relationships, and I want [the entire Big Brothers Big Sisters team] to grow that and see it increase,” she said.
The organization operates in both Midland and Odessa, and the process for matching mentors ("Bigs") with mentees ("Littles") is comprehensive. It includes background checks, interviews, reference reviews, and training to ensure safety and success in the mentorship relationship. Once a match is made, a match support specialist works closely with both the mentor and the mentee to provide ongoing coaching and check-ins.
Minchew emphasized the dual role of the organization in the community. “We are here for mentoring, but we are also here to provide support and resources,” she said. In addition to mentorship, Big Brothers Big Sisters connects families to vital resources that can help improve their overall well-being.
Research underscores the positive impact of mentorship. Minchew highlighted studies showing that children who spend at least 18 months with a mentor are significantly less likely to engage in risky behaviors. These children are 46% less likely to use illegal drugs, 27% less likely to use alcohol, and 52% less likely to skip school. The data also shows that 33% are less likely to harm others.
A similar 2009 study by Civic Enterprises revealed that 94% of mentees reported increased confidence in achieving their goals. Additionally, 93% of “Littles” said having a caring adult was critical to their success, and 90% felt better about themselves because of their mentor’s support.
Another survey by Harris Interactive found that 86% of mentees believed they would lead fulfilling lives, and 72% were satisfied with their friendships.
To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Permian Basin or to get involved as a mentor, visit the organization’s website.