Community-Based Mentoring

Through the friendships created in our matches, girls feel heard, understood, and supported  and encouraged to discover opportunities extending beyond their current lives. This program is unique because Big and Little Sisters choose when, where and what they do when they get together, which helps them to build a bond based on shared interests and experiences. Many matches take advantage of Big Sister sponsored events, although sometimes activities are as simple as sharing a laugh, spending time together and trying something new.

As a way to monitor the progress of each match and provide support, Big Sister's match support social workers check-in monthly with girls, their families and mentors to provide information, advice, encouragement and activity ideas. This check-in also provides an opportunity for Big Sisters to express any concerns or share any triumphs relating to their Little Sister.

It is important to note that, while the agency asks for a minimum commitment of one year in our Community-Based Mentoring program, the average length of a Big Sister match is 26 months—exceeding the national average of 22 months.  In 2006, Big Sister served more than 1,100 of girls in Community-Based Mentoring.