Youth Mentoring Services
Our program matches children between the ages of 6 and above with caring adult role-models. Bigs and Littles meet in the community to do things they enjoy, 3-4 times a month, a majority of meetings in person, for at least one year.
As the relationship grows and strengthens, it offers much more than emotional support to children in challenging circumstances. Mentorship also gives Littles the chance to enjoy new experiences, discover new interests, develop new skills and abilities, and gain a greater appreciation for their own potential. Bigs help Littles envision hopeful possibilities for their future and develop the confidence and sense of self-empowerment they need to pursue them.
Additional services provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters include a scholarship program for Littles pursuing post-secondary education, extended support for older teens transitioning into adulthood, and focused services that address the needs of special populations.
Scholarships
While simply spending time with a positive role model like you helps Littles succeed at school, our annual Scholarship Program and Promising Futures Scholarship Ceremony offer Littles even more encouragement to graduate high school and pursue a post-secondary education. Eligible youth earn $2,000 to $4,000 in scholarship funds to use at any two or four-year college, university or accredited trade or technical school.
Big Futures
In our Big Futures program, you maintain a relationship with your Little even after high school graduation. This extended mentorship helps youth navigate the transition into young adulthood and focuses on guiding them toward one of the “Three E’s” – Enrollment in post-secondary education, Employment and career readiness, or Enlistment in military service.
Match Events
Regularly scheduled activities provide monthly opportunities for matches to spend time together and get to know each other better. Designed especially for Bigs with Littles who are 11 years or older, these activities include everything from kayaking, to self-defense workshops, to art classes, and focus on promoting education, career exploration, social/emotional learning and healthy choices.
Youth Activity Center Nights (YAC)
On the second Thursday of every month, BBBS hosts free activities for matches in our Youth Activity Center, including games, art projects, classes, workshops and other special events. Time spent at YAC events gives you and your Little a chance to build your relationship, while also getting to know other matches and the BBBS staff.
