We offer programming to make every child feel safe, inspired and empowered. We are always seeking ways to engage diverse community members to better be able to meet the needs of these youth. We welcome volunteers from various backgrounds but specifically looking to recruit more volunteers from diverse cultural backgrounds, those with varied lived experience, and individuals identifying as 2SLGBTQ+.
One to One Mentoring
Big Brothers Mentoring
Big Brother Mentoring matches children and youth with an adult Mentor to hangout, connect and talk with throughout the year. The goal is for children and youth to become empowered to live their potential.
Volunteer Commitment: 2 meetings/month
You are matched with a child between the ages of 6-16 based on common interests, personality, hobbies and location. Together you spend time at home or in the community enjoying fun activities. With the child’s Guardian you determine your own schedule.
Big Sisters mentoring
Big Sister Mentoring matches children and youth with an adult Mentor to hangout, connect and talk with throughout the year. The goal is for children and youth to become empowered to live their potential.
Volunteer Commitment: 2 meetings/month
You are matched with a child between the ages of 6-16 based on common interests, personality, hobbies and location. Together you spend time at home or in the community enjoying fun activities. With the child’s Guardian you determine your own schedule
In-School Mentoring
In-School Mentoring provides elementary students who could benefit from extra emotional, social or academic support, with a caring adult mentor. The goal is for students to become engaged, connected and confident members of their school and community.
Volunteer Commitment: 1 hour/week
The In-School Mentoring program requires a weekly visit of 1 hour for the duration of the school year. You are matched with a student in grades 1-8 based on common interests and location. The match takes place on school property during the school day and lasts until the end of the school year (April/June).
Group
Go Girls! Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds!
Go Girls! group programs are designed for girls ages 11-14 and provides them with information to help make informed choices about healthy, active living. The goal of the program is to help participants develop self-esteem, healthy eating habits and be physically active.
Volunteer Commitment: 2 hours/week | 7 weeks
You will lead a group of 8-12 students alongside another volunteer. Each session takes place on school property during the school day and focuses on promoting healthy living. Program manuals and training are provided.
Game On! Eat Smart, Play Smart!
Game On! group programs are designed for boys ages 11-14 and provides them with information to help make informed choices about healthy, active living. The goal of the program is that participants develop self-esteem, healthy eating habits and be physically active.
Volunteer Commitment: 2 hours/week | 7 weeks
You will lead a group of 8-12 students alongside another volunteer. Each session takes place on school property during the school day and focuses on promoting healthy living. Program manuals and training are provided.
Big Bunch
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.
Volunteer Commitment: 2 hours/week | 12 weeks
Big Bunch Mentors and children meet on scheduled evenings and participate in recreational activities planned by BBBSWR. The program runs 3 times per year in Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge.