Big Brothers Big Sisters

Big Brothers Big Sisters is Australia's leading mentoring program for young people supported by 100 years of international experience and expertise. Our name and logo are synonymous with quality program delivery and best practice worldwide.

Established in Australia in the late 1970's, we provide disadvantaged young people, in need of additional support and friendship, with a caring mentor and positive role model. Our programs are based on the simplicity and power of friendship.

At Big Brothers Big Sisters, we believe all young people need to feel valued and important. Research has demonstrated that mentoring can empower young people to reach their potential, make positive changes in their behaviour, and build self-worth, trust and relationships at home and at school. Young people who spend time with a mentor gain confidence, self-esteem and new skills, whilst mentors experience a renewed sense of discovery, learning and enjoyment.

Big Brothers Big Sisters' community-based mentoring involves the development of a long-term one-to-one friendship between a volunteer mentor and young person aged 7 to 17 years.

The program is designed to be of greatest assistance to disadvantaged young people in need of additional adult support and friendship; someone in their life to help strengthen self-worth, trust and relationships at home and school.

Young people over the age of 18 years may apply to become a volunteer mentor.

Our volunteers come from all walks of life with a wide variety of interests and experiences. They have in common a desire to make a meaningful contribution to the life of a young person.

Mentors commit to spending quality time with a young person; a minimum of one hour per week for a minimum of 12 months, undertaking a range of simple and inexpensive activities according to interests and time.

These may include a walk in the park, playing board games or basketball, baking a cake, going to a football match or building something together. The emphasis is on the gradual development of the friendship and having fun, rather than the activity. Volunteers are encouraged to pursue activities, which are low or no cost.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is committed to the safety of young people. Prospective volunteers are carefully selected to help ensure only suitable applicants are matched with young people. Volunteer selection includes an application form, references, criminal history checks, interviews and a home visit by a Coordinator.

Training and ongoing match support is provided.