BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS
Big Brothers Big Sisters operates under the belief that inherent in every child is incredible potential. Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”) in communities across the country as the nation’s largest donor- and volunteer-supported mentoring network. We develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people. We partner with parents/guardians, volunteers, schools, and the donors in our area to defend, ignite, and empower the potential of every kid we serve.
The Big Brothers Big Sisters mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. The Big Brothers Big Sisters vision is that all youth achieve their full potential.
ONE-TO-ONE MENTORING PROGRAMS
COMMUNITY-BASED​
Approved community-based Bigs may go to the Little's home to provide transportation for the Littles for BBBS match outings. Matches typically get together two times a month for 2 - 4 hours to engage in activities they enjoy. Community-based matches involve 1-on-1 outings and activities:
​
-
Hiking
-
Going to museums
-
Going to an event hosted by FFY or BBBS
-
Hanging out and talking
-
Exploring Columbus and the surrounding are
Some Bigs meet their Littles on weekday evenings. Others get together with their Littles on the weekends. Each match is unique and creates a schedule that works for them.
SITE-BASED​ (SCHOOL)
Parents and youth enrolled in this program can choose an adult mentor or high school mentor. Bigs and Littles meet consistently during the school year, once per week for 30 minutes to an hour. Matches typically meet during the Little's lunch and recess time. Each match has a variety of activities they can do together:
​
-
Play Board Games
-
Create Crafts Together
-
Shoot hoops in the gym (with school approval)
-
Read books together
​
All school-based matches meet during school hours and follow the school calendar.
SMALL GROUP MENTORING PROGRAM
HIGH SCHOOL SITE-BASED
CHARGED stands for Creating Holistic Achievement through Role Models, Guidance, and Empowerment for the Development of Teens.​ This program serves teens ages 14–18, pairing small groups of 2 to 5 youth with a dedicated adult mentor, known as a Coach. These groups meet once a week for 30 minutes during the school year, typically during their high school’s advisory period. CHARGED is designed to help teens build essential life skills, boost confidence, and form positive, supportive relationships — all with the goal of preparing them for a successful and fulfilling future.
IT TAKES LITTLE
TO BE A
BIG
BE A BIG!
We do not need to create potential, we just need to defend it. The kids in our community are waiting for mentors who will stand with them to defend, ignite, and empower their potential. Big Brothers Big Sisters exists to create positive change in our community by matching youth with Bigs to build powerful friendships.
GET A BIG!
We do not need to create potential, we just need to defend it. The kids in our community are waiting for mentors who will stand with them to defend, ignite, and empower their potential. Big Brothers Big Sisters exists to create positive change in our community by matching youth with Bigs to build powerful friendships.
OUR IMPACT LAST YEAR
100%
of matched Littles indicated having a trusted adult or adults in their life.
100%
of matched Littles indicated a significant improvement in social acceptance and social competence.
86%
of matched Littles maintained or indicated improvement in academic performance.
99%
of matched Littles believed they are likely to graduate high school and hold higher aspirations for future educational endeavors since being matched with their Big.
94%
of matched Littles indicated significant improvement in their attitudes toward risky behaviors like tobacco, drugs, and alcohol use.
82%
of matched Littles maintained or indicated improvement in relationships and family.
STAY IN THE KNOW!
Join the FFY Newsletter to get the latest updates on our programs, events, volunteer opportunities, and more!