In these programs, a Big Brother or Big Sister is matched with a Little Brother or Sister in a one-to-one friendship. They are then able to do fun activities throughout the community, such as taking walks, attending community events, swimming, cycling, or just relaxing at home. BBBS is focussed on matching the 'Big' with the 'Little' based on factors such as interests, location, etc. so that both the Big and the Little enjoy their time together. We have a variety of Community Programs that help to include the dynamic lifestyles of everyone: young people, seniors, professionals, couples, and more.
It's easy to get involved
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who are the children that apply to your program?
A: Little Brothers and Sisters are children who, through the encouragement and a special one-to-one friendship with a caring adult, enhance their sense of belonging, self-worth, resiliency, and capacity to make healthy, well-informed decisions. They are between the ages of 7 and 13.
Q: After the first year, can I continue to be a mentor to the same child?
A: Yes, definitely! Many matches continue beyond the one-year, several of them lasting until the “Little” turns 19.
Q: Is there an age requirement to become a Big Brother or Sister?
A: Volunteers in the Community Mentoring Program must be at least 19-years old; however, there is no age limit.
Q: What is the time commitment for volunteering in the Community Mentoring Program?
A: Volunteers in this program spend a few hours per week with their Little Brother or Sister. The commitment to this program is for a minimum of one year from the time of matching.
Q: What if I will be away?
A: We know that life is busy outside of being a volunteer with us, and that from time to time you may miss some time with your match due to vacation, illness, business trips, etc. You can help ease that time for your match by being open about expected time away and clear about return times. If you know that you are going to be away for an extended time prior to being matched, please inform your Mentoring Coordinator about your plans.
Q: I don’t drive, is that a problem?
A: No. Many of our matches use other modes of transportation, including bicycles and transit. If you prefer, we will try to match you with a child who lives in or near your neighbourhood.
Q: How do you match “Bigs” with “Littles”?
A: We take the time to get to know our volunteers and the kids in our program. We then carefully match Bigs with Littles based on a number of factors, including interests, personality, location, experience, age of child, etc.
Q: Will the staff at BBBS stay involved after the match is made?
A: Yes. It is mandatory to stay involved with the agency. This is the responsibility of all parties, including the Big, Little, and Parent/Guardian.
Q: Who should be a Big?
A: Big Brothers and Sisters are caring adults who wish to provide encouragement and friendship to a child. They are people who are able to commit to spending a few hours a week with a child for a minimum of one year.
Q: Does the Community Mentoring Program cost anything?
A: No, there are no fees associated with any of our programs. We encourage matches to participate in no- or low-cost activities so that involvement does not result in a financial burden for BBBS volunteers or families. The focus of the program should be on quality time being spent together, rather than exciting activities that cost a lot of money.
Q: What are the benefits a child receives from being involved in the Community Mentoring Program?
A: Studies show that mentoring relationships are proven to help boys and girls to:
· Develop increased confidence, self-esteem and hope for the future;
· Enhance their goals and expectations;
· Improve academic performance;
· Stay in school, and go on to further education;
· Improve their communication and social skills;
· Improve their interaction with peers;
· Avoid the use of illegal drugs and alcohol;
· Avoid the use of physical violence.
Q: Is there any training involved?
A: Yes. Once you have applied to our program, you will be invited to a training session. Topics such as abuse prevention, how to build self-esteem, volunteer roles and responsibilities, and asset development will be covered. Although a great deal of information is covered at this thorough workshop, please recognize that this is just a starting point in your learning as a Big.
Q: How will I know what to do with my Little?
A: We make an effort to match Bigs with Littles who have similar interests. For example, if you are a sporty person, we would try to match you up with a Little who also enjoys sports. Other activity ideas include cooking, baking, spending time outdoors, doing arts and crafts, building with wood, etc.