The Lake County chapter emerged in 1980 in response to the need for mentoring in the community.  It was incorporated (recognized by the federal government) in 1983.  In July 1999 Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lake County was one of 9 agencies in the country recognized with a $10,000 grant from the Annie E. Casey Foundation for demonstrating outstanding program growth and promoting multiculturalism. In June 2000 BBBS of Lake County received $10,000 again, in recognition of national leadership in the area of volunteer recruitment and enrollment.  Today, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lake County is leading the Nation in developing site-based mentoring programs.