Connect
Connect
Join us in empowering the next generation.
Uplift
Uplift
Inspire
Inspire
Why We Exist
Every young person deserves the chance to reach their full potential, but growing up isn't equally easy for everyone. Many children and youth across the Westman region face challenges that can stand between them and the future they deserve, whether that's instability at home, a lack of positive role models, or simply not having someone in their corner. Research shows that a single caring, consistent adult in a child's life can change the entire trajectory of their story.That's why Big Brothers Big Sisters Westman exists: to ignite the power and potential of young people in Westman through mentoring relationships that last.We believe adversity shouldn't determine who a child becomes, and we've spent over 50 years matching kids and youth with mentors who show up, week after week, simply to be present in their lives.Right now, the need in our region outpaces our capacity, there are more youth waiting for a match than we currently have mentors to serve them. Every volunteer who joins us, in whatever capacity fits their life, helps close that gap and gives one more young person in Westman the chance to thrive.
What We Do
Our traditional one-on-one match pairs a child or youth with a caring adult based on shared interests. Matches spend time together in the community (grabbing a coffee, playing sports, working on a hobby), building a consistent, ongoing friendship over a minimum one-year commitment, with a case worker checking in regularly to support the match along the way.COMMUNITY 1:1 MENTORSHIP
This program pairs elementary school students with a caring adult or high-school-aged mentor, right at school, during the school day. Sessions are non-academic, such as games, outdoor play, and small group activities, focused on connection rather than homework, removing any transportation barrier for families. Sessions are supervised by school staff, with a case worker checking in regularly to support the match throughout the school year.IN-SCHOOL MENTORSHIP
Group programming brings youth and mentors together for shared activities and events in a group setting rather than a one-on-one match, with themes such as STEM, art, sports and more. Designed to be a fun way to engage youth on our wait list while they wait to be matched, this program plays a vital role in making sure no child goes without support.