COMMUNITY-BASED MENTORING
Our traditional one-to-one mentoring model. Caring adult mentors (Bigs) and children ages 5-14 (Littles) spend time together in the community doing activities they both enjoy.
A LITTLE TIME CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE
Community-Based mentoring connects a young person with a caring adult to build a meaningful, one-to-one friendship. Matches are thoughtfully made based on compatibility, shared interests, and location, creating opportunities for Bigs and Littles to connect in ways that feel natural and fun!
With just two hours a month, Bigs and Littles can explore hobbies, try new activities, and create lasting memories while building confidence and a sense of belonging.
SUPPORTING SUCCESS
Each match is supported every step of the way. Our team provides personalized guidance, activity ideas, ongoing check-ins, and child safety support to help Bigs and Littles build safe, meaningful, and lasting friendships.
Matches are thoughtfully made based on compatibility, shared interests, and location. This individualized approach helps Bigs and Littles build a friendship that feels natural and creates opportunities to grow together.
Every match is paired with a Match Support Professional who provides ongoing guidance, celebrates progress, helps navigate challenges, and ensures the relationship remains safe, healthy, and meaningful for both the Big and Little.
Through our monthly Big News newsletter, matches receive 4–5 free or low-cost activity ideas and opportunities each month across our service areas. Whether choosing to attend BBBS activities or arrange fun on their own, each match makes memories uniquely their own.
Examples of BBBS activities:
- Mini Golf
- Horseback Riding
- Arts & Crafts
- Spring planting
- Sports clinics
Our college and career readiness programming for helps youth ages 12+ explore their interests, build confidence, and prepare for their future through mentorship and meaningful experiences. 1 college and career exploration activity is planned each month.
Through our partnership with the Federated Challenge, eligible youth may also have the opportunity to earn scholarships toward postsecondary education, helping make their future goals more attainable.
From local events to community partnerships, we connect matches with opportunities to explore interests, try new experiences, and discover what’s possible in their own communities.