Big Sisters Program The Big Sisters program helps girls, non-binary, transgender, and gender-diverse youth (aged 7-17) connect with caring adult mentors. These mentors offer support, guidance, and serve as positive role models to help young people face life’s challenges.
Why This Program Matters: Helping Youth Overcome Barriers
Many youth in our Big Sisters program face problems like bullying, low self-esteem, feelings of loneliness, or family issues through no fault of their own. Growing up can be hard for everyone, but having a trusted adult mentor—someone who is not a family member, a counselor, or teacher—can show these youth that they matter. A mentor provides steady support, helping youth build the confidence and strength to do well in school, at home, and in their community. Everyone can benefit from such a relationship.
How It Works: The Big and Little Connection
Over at least one year, Big and Little matches meet for 2-4 hours each week. They enjoy fun activities like crafting, going to events, or just hanging out. Every relationship is special, but all provide the support youth need to grow. To keep everyone safe and happy, trained Mentoring Coordinators oversee these relationships to ensure they are regular, healthy, and most importantly, fun!
Key Benefits for Youth:
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Boosted self-confidence and self-esteem
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Development of leadership and independence
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Healthier relationships with friends and family
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Improved school engagement and success
What It Means to Be a Big Sister
Being a Big Sister means forming a special bond with a young person. Through weekly activities, shared experiences, and simple conversations, Big Sisters offer friendship and guidance that help youth see, and realize, their potential. It’s also a way for youth to become stronger members of their community and active contributors towards a brighter future.
How to Become a Big Sister?
Big Sisters must be 19 or older, pass a criminal record check, and complete our training on child safety and mentoring best practices. Our Mentoring Coordinators get to know each volunteer in order to make the best possible match with a Little Sister. Every Big can access support from our professional team, ensuring that both Bigs and Littles have a great experience.
The Impact of Mentorship: Why Your Support Matters
Research shows that youth with mentors do better in school, feel better about themselves, and develop healthier relationships. By supporting the Big Sisters program, you’ll help a young person build the skills they need to thrive.
Ready to Make a Difference? Become a Mentor!
Are you ready to make a lasting impact on the life of a young person? If you’re interested in becoming a Big Sister—or exploring our other mentoring opportunities—visit our ‘Become a Mentor’ page to learn more and start your journey.
Youth/Mentee Referral & Intake Cycle: Reopened
We are pleased to announce that the 1:1 Mentoring Program, which includes the Big Sisters Program and the Study Buddy Program, will officially reopen its Referral/Intake Cycle on April 1, 2026. During this intake period, we will be accepting youth referrals for a limited time, from April 1 through June 30, 2026. We encourage families, caregivers, and community partners to submit referrals within this three-month window. Following this period, the Referral/Intake Cycle will close once again.
For questions or clarification, please contact info@bigsisters.bc.ca.