Big Brothers Big Sisters is one of Comcast’s national community partners, and we’ve been working together for about a year now. My favorite aspect of the partnership is the John Alchin Beyond School Walls program, which had a successful launch in Philadelphia this past school year. Every other week, 30 Littles from Fairhill Elementary School visited their Bigs at the Comcast Center. Much fun was had, and many strong relationships were forged.

Those relationships continued throughout the summer, including a "mini-reunion" where Littles brought their parents, grandparents and friends to the Comcast Center for a tour, lots of food and some lively conversations.

My trusty Flip Cam and I spent a few moments with two moms of the Littles. I asked basically one question: "What has been the impact of this program?" As you’ll see in the video, their answers revolved around better self-esteem, improved grades and optimism about the future.

These are moms of kids just now beginning fifth grade, and the families live in a tough neighborhood of North Philadelphia. To hear them speak so positively about this program not only warms the heart, but bodes well for year two in Philly and for this Fall’s expansion cities of Houston, Hartford, Minneapolis/St. Paul and Salt Lake City.