Volunteer

Mentees in our programs are young people between 6 and 18 years old with unique interests and strengths. They reflect the incredible diversity of the regions we serve.

Our Team always takes a volunteer’s preferences into account when placing them in a program. However, there are times when we may see a specific skill within a volunteer that leads us to recommend them for another program. Our goal is to have the most positive impact on as many young people as possible, so our program placements are made with that in mind.

Matches between Mentees and Mentors are based on a variety of variables; including similar interests, personality types, shared identity, lived experience, and location. We want to establish the strongest possible mentoring relationships and that includes making sure that you, as a volunteer Mentor, feel motivated and valued as well.

Our matching process is not first come first served. Therefore, it can be difficult to provide a definitive timeline. But there is one thing you can do to help speed up the process of finding the most suitable match – Help us get to know you! Actively engage in our training sessions, join us for agency events, and reach out to your Caseworker to keep them informed on changes in your life.

Mentors and Mentees meet weekly or bi-weekly for a minimum of one year. During this time, matches participate in a variety of activities. To reduce the financial barrier on both the family and the volunteer Mentor, BBBSPY encourages matches to find low to no cost activities. Some of the most common match activities include going for walks, doing arts and crafts, watching movies, baking, and playing sports.

The most important thing that takes place between you and your Mentee is the formation of a Developmental Relationship.

Developmental Relationships are close connections through which young people discover who they are, cultivate abilities to shape their own lives, and learn how to engage with and contribute to the world around them.

Never head of that before? Don’t worry, all BBBSPY Mentors are trained and coached to establish Developmental Relationships with their Mentees. In doing this, Mentors create meaningful connections with their Mentees that empower them to be their very best.

That depends on the program you’re in.

For example, our Game On! and Go Girls! programs have a specialized curriculum that you would co-facilitate with another Mentor or two.

Whereas our other group-based programs may require you to be a little more creative in your approach. This might involve coming up with activities and discussions that directly relate to the needs and interests of the individuals in your program. But no need to panic, you will have an experienced Caseworker to help guide you through this.

BBBSPY Staff are with you from the very beginning. This includes taking you through our enrolment process, to matching you in a suitable program, and providing ongoing support to ensure you are fully equipped to take on the important role of Mentor.

Our Casework Staff conduct regular match monitoring calls with all Mentors, Mentees, and families, and provide practical strategies to make sure Mentees and Mentors are getting the most out of their experience with us.