Big Bunch provides children and youth with mentoring support through group-based recreational programming. By participating in recreational activities children and youth develop self-esteem and social skills. Additionally, our mentees will have the opportunity to have access to positive mentorship while waiting for a One-to-One match.

Volunteer Commitment: 2 hours/ Weekly | 12 weeks minimum

Big Bunch Mentors and children meet on scheduled evenings and participate in recreational activities paid for by BBBSWR. The program runs 3 times per year in Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge. Mentors will attend a Big Bunch training and planning session prior to the start of your Big Bunch group.

Through regular outings, a relationship is developed between the Mentors and the Mentees, built on trust and common interests, and is supported by our experienced Program Coordinators. The result is a life-changing experience for both the volunteer Mentors and Mentees.

Our volunteers are caring adults, with various skill sets and a range of experience working with children. Volunteers are extensively screened, receive training regarding child safety, and are supported through consistent contact with Program Coordinators.

The Big Bunch Program strives to:

• encourage youth develop positive relationships with caring adults and peers
• develop and build self-esteem and self-confidence
• increase youths participation in recreational programming
• encourage youth to improve their mental and physical health
• support the development of leadership and life skills
• support the development of social skills
• provide opportunity for children and youth who are on the waitlist for a one-to-one match to have access to positive role models

*Access to a vehicle is required*

To become a Big Bunch mentor, you must be:

• Age 18 or older
• Live, work or reside in Waterloo region
• Able to commit to 2 hours a week for up to 12 weeks per session
• Have access to a vehicle
• Have evening availability
• Interested in developing a positive friendship with a youth aged 6-16

Inquiry Form

Please complete the online inquiry form. You will be contacted by a member of our Intake Team within 5-7 business days regarding next steps.

Eligibility

Online Application & References

Once you receive the link to the online application, please complete the form. You will be asked to provide references in the application. Please ensure they are aware you have listed them as a reference as we will be following up as soon as the application is received. We will require a vulnerable sector/employment, family, significant other (if applicable) and a personal reference.

Pre-Match Training

You will be added to our learning management system to complete mandatory program specific training. This must be completed prior to matching in an agency program.

Police Check

Interview

Acceptance

Thank you for wanting to volunteer your time to youth in need of a Mentor. We look forward to meeting you and working together to ensure that all youth have the chance to reach their potential.

Inquiry & Application Instructions:

1. Please do not exit out of this browser, otherwise you will lose all your work.
2. Once complete, hit submit and we’ll send you a confirmation email with next steps.
3. Questions? Call 519-745-0180 ext. 201 or email info@bbbswr.org
4. As part of the application process, we require references over the age of 18. Please ensure that you have informed your references that we will be contacting them and encourage them to check their email (including junk mail folder) for the reference email.
5. Full reference instructions are on the application to ensure the right contact is provided. You will be provided with a link to the online application if you are eligible for programming. Note, a vulnerable sector reference must be someone you’ve reported to and cannot be a family member.

Start Your Inquiry!