One to One Mentoring
The 1:1 Community Match is the ‘traditional’ BBBS program, matching a youth (Little) with a caring, supportive adult mentor (Big) in the community. Bigs and Littles spend time together, attend BBBSGBWS group programs, and build developmental relationships which express care, challenge growth, provide support, share power and expand possibilities!
In Community 1:1 Mentoring
The Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program allows youth (ages 6-18) to be matched with a role model (18+) to talk to and share the experiences of growing up with. Through regular outings, a relationship is developed between the mentor and the mentee, which is built on trust, common interests, and is supported by our experienced caseworkers. The result is a life-changing experience for both the mentor and the mentee. This In-Community 1:1 mentoring program usually requires two regularly scheduled outings a month, of a few hours each time, and minimum one-year commitment.
Couples Match
Couples who wish to volunteer together can be matched to a mentee through our Couples Match program (an extension of the above Community Based 1:1 Mentoring Program). Couples must be over 18 years old and have been in their relationship for at least 2 years.
In-School Mentoring
We offer a number of in-school programs for youth in grades one (1) to eight (8), either in a 1-to-1 or small group setting. In each program an adult volunteer (Mentor) provides a caring, supportive, and non-judgmental environment. The Mentor’s role is to be an adult support, a positive role model, a friend, a listener, a resource and a guide. Mentors focus on relational wellbeing, increasing self-esteem, establishing essential life skills and in some programs, academic support. Programs offered include ‘Learn It!’, Go Kids!, and Game on!.
In-School 1:1 Mentorship
Learn It!
Learn It! is designed to strengthen the academic skills of students by reinforcing key learning objectives through one-to-one or small-group mentoring. With a focus on literacy and numeracy, the program supports students in Grades 3-8 by providing engaging, student-centred learning experiences tailored to their individual needs and learning styles. Through a mentorship-based approach, participants build academic confidence, strengthen foundational skills, and develop positive learning habits that contribute to improved educational outcomes. By fostering supportive relationships with mentors, Learn It! encourages students to become more engaged, motivated, and successful learners.
Go Kids!
Go Kids! is a learning-based mentorship program that promotes healthy minds and healthy bodies for youth in Grades 6-8. Through interactive activities and guided discussions, participants explore topics including healthy boundaries, decision-making, healthy relationships, coping and stress management, empathy, resilience, and emotional well-being. The program encourages youth to develop positive communication skills, build self-confidence, and strengthen their ability to navigate everyday challenges. By combining mentorship with engaging, wellness-focused activities, Go Kids! empowers participants to make informed choices, build meaningful connections, and develop the leadership and life skills needed to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.
Game On!
Game On! is a recreation-based mentoring program designed to equip boys in Grades 6-8 with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to make informed decisions about healthy lifestyle practices. Through interactive activities and facilitated discussions, participants explore topics that promote positive youth development and lifelong well-being, including stress management, self-esteem, healthy relationships, responsible social media use, and the prevention of bullying and harmful stereotypes. By fostering critical thinking, resilience, and social-emotional learning, Game On! empowers participants to build confidence and develop healthy habits both inside and outside the classroom.
Community Group Programs
Our community group programs are available to all youth, often welcoming youth waitlisted for a 1:1 match. Each monthly program welcomes Bigs, Littles, volunteers and community partners to share in learning opportunities and skill development. Programs provide intergenerational experiences focused on community building, relational wellbeing, mentorship and civic engagement. Programs are offered bi-monthly.
OUTDOOR WELLNESS PROGRAM
The Outdoor Wellness Program offers youth the opportunity to get outside at the Bluewater Outdoor Education Centre (just outside of Wiarton). This monthly program welcomes families, Littles, Bigs and volunteers from BBBSGBWS, M’Wikwedong Indigenous Friendship Centre and Keystone Child Youth & Family Services to share in land-based learning opportunities and skill development. Our Outdoor Wellness program provides intergenerational learning opportunities focused on community building, relational wellbeing, and mentorship.
Big Bunch
The Big Bunch program is a monthly event for all Mentors and Mentees to come together and have some fun while learning new skills and building new connections. These group activities also ensure mentees on the wait list feel supported and connected while waiting to be matched with a caring mentor. The Big Bunch program is offered in various communities across Grey, Bruce and Western Simcoe and focuses on building partnerships and investing in youth development.
Youth Council
The Youth Council was established in the fall of 2022. The Council’s primary objective is to amplify youth voices around issues that affect our community. Find out more information by clicking here.