The Big Brothers Big Sisters Community-Based Program matches an adult volunteer (Big) to a child (Little), between the ages of 7-15. Together they share in everyday activities and simple outings a few hours a month. Bigs & Littles (Matches) focus on low to no-cost activities and have outings that typically take place in the community, doing things they both enjoy together. 

Professional staff help develop and support each match. Outings are planned by the match and are based on their interests such as playing games, making art, bowling, getting ice cream, going for a hike, playing sports, or having a simple conversation. 

During these special outings, Bigs help cultivate relationships that provide their Little with the skills to manage every day challenges. Through simple friendships, Bigs experience the joy of helping their Little discover a world of possibilities and opportunities. 

Benefits for Bigs

• A new relationship with a young person who can benefit from your support and friendship. 
• Add fun, challenge and excitement into your life. 
• Belong to a nationally recognized premier mentoring organization. 
• Learn new skills, leadership, commitment, and gain an appreciation for diversity.
• A chance to give back to your community.
• See the smile on your Littles face every time you get together. 
• Feel like a kid again! 

Benefits  for  Littles

Big Brothers Big Sisters one-to-one mentoring makes a huge difference for the youth it serves. Research consistently shows that Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring helps youth overcome the many challenges they face. Statistics have proven that youth in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program showed improvement in the following areas:

• Self-confidence
• Ability to express feelings
  
• Communication with peers & adults
  
• Attitude toward school
  
• Decision-making 
  
• Sense of the future
  
• Academic performance
  
• Less likely to engage in substance use 
• Improve social skills
  
• Increased grit​

The Site-Based Mentoring Program takes place on-site at local schools or community settings. Bigs & Littles meet once a week for the academic school year. This program is supervised by BBBS staff. This program is designed for volunteers with a relatively low hourly commitment. This volunteer opportunity is perfect for college students, high school students, or business professionals that do not want to commit to volunteering in the evenings or weekends. 

During these sessions, a professional staff member will guide the match through activities designed to strengthen the match relationship and help youth build important character strengths such as motivation, resilience, self-esteem, and social skills to help them succeed in life. 

2022-2023 Site-Based Mentoring Locations: 

• Aspen Ridge Middle School
• Bothwell Middle School
• Superior Hills Elementary School
• Lake Superior Village Youth & Family Center
• Superior Central School District
• Burt Township School District
• Tahquamenon Area Schools

Please contact Carli, Vice President of Programs for more information about the Site-Based Programs. 
Email: carli@bbbsmqt.org
Call/text: (906) 251-8047