Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring Programs

Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring Programs match mentors and youth to spend time together in one-to-one activities such as taking a walk in the park, going to a museum, listening to music, hanging out and talking, doing homework, reading together, shooting hoops in the gym, and playing on the playground. Matches may also attend events hosted by the local Big Brothers Big Sisters affiliate.

• Ages: 6–18 years old
• Schedule: Some mentors meet with youth on weekends, while others meet on weekday evenings; each match develops a schedule that works for them.

Big Brothers Big Sisters mentors work with children in the community, in their schools, on military bases, and in other settings. The organization states its mission as: “Create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.” Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is described as “the preeminent one-to-one” mentoring organization and is celebrating 120 years of impact. The National Youth Council provides a platform for diverse young leaders to influence programs, engage with partners, and inspire their peers, and an Alumni Network connects former participants and supporters. Community-based mentoring, school-based mentoring, and Operation Bigs are three program models, and each year two mentors and two youth are selected as Bigs & Littles of the Year from thousands of matches. Big Brothers Big Sisters operates in communities across the United States and has national collaborations with Google, Macy’s, and Hilton. Tony Coles will assume the role of Board Chair, and Dave Clark will serve as Vice Chair.

Last updated August 10, 2026.