Big Brothers/Big Sisters Mentoring
Community Program (1-1 Mentoring)
For Families: The Community Mentoring Program offers children and youth a consistent, supportive relationship with a caring adult mentor. Your child will be matched with a carefully screened and trusted adult mentor who shares their interests and values, allowing for an authentic, lasting connection. Through regular outings and activities, mentors and mentees build trust, engage in fun experiences, and develop life skills. This program is ideal for families seeking a stable and positive role model for their child, fostering resilience, confidence, and social skills. The program is flexible to suit your family’s schedule and offers a nurturing environment for your child to explore their unique potential.
For Volunteers: If you’re looking to build a one-on-one relationship with a young person and make a lasting impact, this program is for you. As a mentor, you’ll have the opportunity to create meaningful, life-enhancing experiences by sharing your own skills and hobbies. This program is perfect if you enjoy building connections through shared activities. This program requires dedication, but the reward is seeing your mentee grow in confidence, self-esteem, and resilience thanks to your guidance.
*Time Commitment: 2-4 meetings/outings a month
In School Mentoring
Adult Mentor Program (1-1 Mentoring)
For Families: The In-School Mentoring Program allows your child to connect with a mentor during school hours, on school grounds, during the school year. In School Mentoring provides a consistent and safe environment for growth and support. If your child would benefit from a positive role model who helps them stay motivated, engaged, and focused, this program offers weekly one-hour sessions tailored to enhance social skills and improve academic engagement. This is a great option if you’re looking for support for your child in handling social interactions, and building confidence in the school setting. This program has also been proven to increase academic attendance.
For Volunteers: This program is ideal if you’re available during the school day and want to make a difference in a child’s life with more of a structured schedule. As an In-School Mentor, you’ll meet with your mentee to engage in activities that build trust, self-confidence, and academic focus. It’s a rewarding choice if you have a flexible schedule and enjoy working within an organized setting. This program requires less time but has a strong impact, as you support your mentee in areas that contribute directly to their success in school.
*Time Commitment: 1 hour/week – follows the school year schedule
In School Mentoring
Teen Mentor Program (1-1 Mentoring)
For Families: The Teen In-School Mentoring Program is designed specifically for children in elementary and middle school who would benefit from having a positive role model and supportive figure during their school day. If your child is facing challenges such as academic stress, social pressure, or uncertainty about future goals, this program offers one-on-one mentorship sessions with the support from teens who can relate to these pressures. Teen Mentors meet with younger students weekly at school, providing guidance, encouragement, and a safe space to discuss personal goals, academic issues, and any concerns they may face. This program is ideal for families seeking additional support for their child to help them feel confident, and understood. This program can also be suggested by school staff to families they think could benefit.
For Volunteers: If you are a high school student interested in working with younger students and can dedicate time during the school day, the Teen In-School Mentoring Program is an impactful way to make a difference in a young person’s life. As a teen mentor, you’ll provide support, encouragement, and a listening ear as younger students navigate the complexities of school, friendships, and social situations. You’ll play a pivotal role in helping them set goals, develop resilience, and make positive choices. This volunteer program is ideal for high school students in grade 11 or 12 who can commit to a consistent weekly meeting and enjoy helping children explore their potential, while also gaining hands on skills to add to their resume. Typically, these meetings occur during lunch hours, or during the high school student’s spare periods. If you are interested in this program, talk to your School Guidance Counselor to see if the hours spent volunteering in the Teen In School Mentoring Program can go towards a volunteer credit.
*Time Commitment: 1 hour/week, follows the school year schedule
After School Mentoring
Teen/Adult Mentor Program (1-1 Mentoring)
@ Central Station, Wednesdays from 4:00-5:00
For Families: The After-School Mentoring Program provides a safe, engaging environment where your child/youth can connect with mentors and peers in a supportive setting outside regular school hours. This program is perfect if you’re looking for a more structured option that mimics In School Mentoring, and helps your child build social skills, confidence, and resilience in a fun, relaxed environment. This program allows your child to explore their interests, form friendships, and receive guidance from positive teen or adult role models. Ideal for families needing after-school support, this program fosters community, learning, and personal growth. Please note: this program follows the school year schedule.
For Volunteers: If you’re looking for a more structured environment to participate in a mentoring relationship, without the pressure of thinking of activities, the After School Program would be a great fit! This program is open to high school students (grade 11 and 12), or community members. As an after-school mentor, you’ll spend time with children or youth playing board games, or helping with homework (if you’re comfortable doing so). These mentoring relationships assist children and youth build life skills, develop new interests, and foster friendships. This program is ideal for volunteers who interested in working with individuals to create a safe, inclusive space for young people to unwind, explore, and grow.
*Time Commitment: 1 hour/week, on Wednesdays from 4:00-5:00 at Central Station in Winkler
GROW Youth Program
Women Led Program
For Families: In the GROW Youth Program, your child will join a group of peers and be guided by two dedicated facilitators in a safe, supportive environment. Held after school on school grounds, this program is ideal for youth in grades 5 and 6 who would benefit from forming friendships, building confidence, and receiving mentorship. Through interactive group activities and open discussions, participants develop essential skills like teamwork, social interaction, and problem-solving, all while having fun and staying engaged. Designed to foster an inclusive and balanced lifestyle, GROW Youth provides a space for youth to build strong peer relationships under the mentorship of positive role models. Led by women mentors, this 4-5 week program features 4-5 sessions on key topics such as physical activity, balanced eating, self-esteem, and communication skills. While School Guidance Counselors typically nominate participants, parents and guardians are also welcome to suggest their child for this enriching program.
For Volunteers: This program is ideal if you enjoy working with youth and facilitating sessions that promote teamwork and companionship. As a GROW Youth Facilitator, you’ll help guide a group of youth, engaging them in discussions, games, and collaborative activities that build life skills. It’s a great option if you’re comfortable leading groups, fostering inclusivity, and creating a fun and supportive atmosphere. You’ll see the reward of nurturing a supportive peer environment where mentees can grow together.
*Time Commitment: Please contact BBBSPV staff to inquire
GROW Youth Program
Male Led Program
*Currently not running due to lack of volunteer facilitators*
GROW Youth Workshop
Women Led Workshop
*Currently not accepting applications – stay tuned for our next workshop in Spring 2025!*
For Families: The GROW Youth Workshops offer a focused and supportive environment for youth in grade 5 and 6 to explore topics like physical wellness, balanced eating, self-esteem, and leadership. Led by certified facilitators, these workshops provide a safe space for girls to learn valuable skills, gain confidence, and connect with peers from diverse backgrounds. These workshops is excellent for parents looking for a well-rounded experience that empowers their youth, teaching them essential life skills through movement, cooking, and discussions around mental health and well-being. These workshops are designed for youth that can benefit from targeted support, rather than ongoing mentoring relationships.
GROW Youth Workshop
Male Led Workshop
*Coming Fall 2025*