Anoop Kumar Named the May "Big Deal" by Big Brothers Big Sisters

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Westchester & Putnam (BBBSWP) is proud to recognize Bedford resident Anoop Kumar as its May "Big Deal" honoree. Launched in January 2025, the “Big Deal” initiative highlights one outstanding mentor from Westchester County each month, sharing their stories to inspire others to get involved.

Anoop, who works in financial services at SECOR Asset Management, has been matched with his Little, G.C., for over three years. He was moved to become a mentor during the COVID-19 pandemic after speaking with the CEO of BBBSWP.

“My initial idea was to offer my New York City office space for tutoring, but I soon learned that many Littles lacked a male role model at home,” said Anoop. “I realized how challenging that must be for single parents and wanted to do my part.”

Reflecting on his experience, Anoop shared, “Mentoring is a two-way street. You learn just as much from your Little. The bond you build can last a lifetime. Being a good mentor doesn’t take much—just be yourself, be thoughtful, and be willing to help. I’ve watched G.C. grow tremendously over the years. He has a bright future and will be a valuable member of society.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America recently revealed groundbreaking research on the long-term impact of mentorship. This research, rooted in three decades of data, provides compelling evidence that mentorship delivers long-lasting benefits:

• Increased Earnings: Participants experienced a 15% boost in earnings between the ages of 20 and 25, reflecting enhanced economic mobility
  • The income of mentored youth as adults was more closely aligned with the income of their mentor than their family, helping to reduce the socioeconomic gap by two-thirds
• Higher College Attendance: Mentored youth are 20% more likely to attend college compared to non-mentored peers
• Improved Behavior: Within 18 months, mentored youth reported lower absenteeism and fewer school suspensions
• Healthier Social Outcomes: Mentored youth exhibit improved behaviors and stronger social bonds, leading to a reduced dependency on social services and long-term societal improvements

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Westchester & Putnam is dedicated to creating and supporting one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the potential in children and change lives. Through various programs designed to meet the needs of the community, the organization aims to build brighter futures for children and empower them to achieve success.

For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Westchester & Putnam or to apply to become a Big/Enroll a Child, please visit bigswestchester.org or call 914-937-3779.