Big Sisters Mentor - Surrey

Summary: Big Sisters Program (rolling intake, apply anytime)

A Big Sister mentor provides a supportive mentoring relationship to female, transgender, and non-binary children and youth (our Little Sisters) who who could benefit from the support and friendship of a mentor which contributes to their overall self-esteem.

The Big Sisters program matches Little Sisters (ages 7-17) with a volunteer (age 19 or older) in a one-to-one mentoring friendship. They spend 2-4 hours once a week for a minimum of a one year commitment. 

Our Little Sisters face challenges such as low self-esteem, social isolation, and a lack of enriching experiences as a result of challenging life circumstances such as poverty, family distress, abuse, or loss. A mentor can act as a reliable and caring friend who can be there to listen, have fun, and help navigate difficult times.

A Big & Little Sister match gets together once a week to participate in fun low to no cost community based activities they both enjoy; such as crafts, going to a local park, sports, watching movies, and simply hanging out and spending time together.

The program strives to do the following:

• Provide a role model and friend to a Little Sister (ages 7-17)
• Promote the importance of staying in school and healthy relationships with family and peers
• Instill trust and self-confidence in order to make healthy decisions
• Encourage leadership skills and independent thinking
• Above all, make a difference while having fun!

Apply Now: https://www.bigsisters.bc.ca/get-involved/become-a-volunteer/big-sisters/

Qualifications:

• Age 19 or older female, transgender, or non-binary individual
• Mature, stable, reliable, and respectful of others
• A Canadian resident for the past year (or able to provide an International Criminal Records Check)
• Able to commit to spending 2-4 hours a week with your Little Sister for a minimum of 1 year (yes, occasional vacations and work travel are fine!)
• Interested in developing a positive friendship with a youth aged 7-17

Benefits:

• Exposure to fresh perspectives, ideas and approaches
• Development of your personal leadership and coaching styles
• Share knowledge, which helps increase the Little Sisters sense of well-being
• Strengthens your interpersonal relationship skills