Frequently Asked Questions

There’s no upper age limit to mentor a young person in need. The minimum age to volunteer for our 1:1 mentoring programs is 18. However, to facilitate our group programs, you must be between 18-25.

Yes, we can match Bigs with Littles of different genders. This option is explored during the matching process.

Absolutely! You don’t need extensive knowledge or experience to be a friend and positive role model. Your mentoring coordinator is always there to support you.

Bigs and Littles are encouraged to choose activities they both enjoy. Our Mentoring Coordinators strive to match mentors with Littles who share similar interests. We recommend low-cost or free activities such as hiking, playing sports at the park, visiting libraries, baking, or playing video games. Additionally, we have a list of local places that offer exclusive discounts for our matches and host a monthly event, including activities like cooking classes, goat yoga, and roller-skating nights.

Similar to the Community Mentoring Program, we encourage Bigs and Littles to engage in activities they both enjoy. These can include board games, crafts, reading, sports, puzzles, or assistance with homework.

We carefully review your application, including your preferences, interests, background, and personality, to make a compatible match. Before introducing you to your Little, we will discuss potential matches with you. You’ll have the opportunity to meet the child before the match is finalized, and you can decline if it doesn’t feel right.

If you can’t meet up for a scheduled visit, that’s okay! Just be sure to communicate with your Little (and sometimes their family) to manage expectations.

Unfortunately, we do not reimburse for match visit expenses. We encourage low- to no-cost activities and provide ideas, discounts, and free match space at our office to help.

Your mentoring coordinator will be a vital resource throughout your experience. They’ll provide support during challenging situations and answer any questions you may have. Regular updates and monitoring will help you build a strong relationship with your Little.

You can only be matched with one child at a time. We want each Little to have the opportunity to create a meaningful relationship with their Big.

The enrollment process involves several steps to ensure a good fit between you and your Little. While the timeline varies based on how quickly you complete each step, expect it to take at least one month. Here’s an overview:

1. Complete the Become a Mentor form: After submitting it on our website, you’ll receive an email from our volunteer coordinator with the application form and instructions to schedule your interview. Congrats on taking the first step!

2. Schedule an interview: Interviews take place at our office at 415 Wharncliffe Rd S and last about 1.5 hours for us to get to know you better.

3. Complete and submit your application: Share your experiences and motivations for becoming a mentor.

4. Provide references: You’ll need to provide three references (personal, family, and work/volunteer-related). Bring your completed reference form to the interview.

5. Attend your interview: Bring any questions you have and your reference form.

6. Provide a police check: Apply online for a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC). We can accept a police check from the last six months.

7. Attend training: Our four-hour in-person training will help you understand your role and how to develop a strong relationship with your Little.

8. Complete a home assessment (for the 1:1 Community Mentoring Program only): We’ll schedule a visit to your home to ensure it’s suitable for a child to visit.

Once you’ve completed these steps, our team will conduct a final assessment of your application and be in touch.