In every child’s journey of life, the presence of a positive mentor is meaningful and important. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagara (BBBSN) recognizes this truth, offering vital mentorship to children and youth aged 6 to 25. Through supportive guidance, their programs support and empower young minds to realize their full potential.

Acting as a caring and compassionate role model, mentors provide a safe space where young people can openly express their emotions, navigate friendships, and cope with complex family dynamics. These relationships offer steady guidance and support, impacting children’s development from their early years through high school and beyond, building resilience and healthy decision-making skills along the way.

“Mentorship is essential in providing support to children facing various challenges and adversities,” reflects Terilee, a dedicated volunteer and Big Sister for over 20 years. Acting as a caring and compassionate role model, mentors provide a safe space where young people can openly express their emotions, navigate friendships, and cope with complex family dynamics. These relationships offer steady guidance and support, impacting children’s development from their early years through high school and beyond, building resilience and healthy decision-making skills along the way.

For many vulnerable children struggling with self-esteem issues, becoming part of their Big’s family provides a sense of inclusion and belonging.

Amid Canada’s rising youth mental health crisis, heightened by family issues, grief, trauma, and systemic challenges, positive role models play a pivotal role in helping young people manage tough emotions while building strong relationships with supportive adults. Mentorship programs provide essential support by guiding youth towards better mental wellness and resilience.

Relationships last a lifetime

“These relationships we build last a lifetime. After the ‘Littles’ age out of the program – many of them remain connected to their Big well into their adult life. Just this week I received a text message from a previous match. She wanted to tell me that she just graduated with a high school diploma. This may not seem like a big deal to some, but this young lady faced so many challenges. Receiving her diploma is a very big deal. I’m just so honoured she wanted to share that with me.”

According to Terilee, there are countless reasons why youth, especially high school students, benefit from a positive mentor in their lives. High school can be a very challenging time for youth as they navigate confidence, growth, and development. Having a trusted adult outside the home to confide in is incredibly important.

Mentorship and mental wellness

“I’ve supported my Little’s through a family member’s criminal charges, and guided one of my mentees through early motherhood. I have seen it all,” Terilee shares. “In Frankie’s case, it was the loss of a sibling and family grief that brought us together. In all cases, I’ve been a safe space for these children, and that is so rewarding.”

The influence of mentorship on mental wellness shines through in the story of Terilee and her Little Sister, Frankie. In May of 2023, Terilee was matched with 8-year-old Frankie, who had lost her older sister to neuroblastoma cancer. Frankie is Terilee’s most recent Little, and her experience with many Littles before has given her a wealth of knowledge when it comes to dealing with tough situations. Frankie’s mother believed that having a Big Sister would provide much-needed support and connection outside of their home. Over the past year, Frankie has become more outgoing and self-assured under Terilee’s guidance, finding a safe space to express her emotions. Their shared experiences and heartfelt conversations have aided Frankie in her healing process and brought a sense of youthfulness back into Terilee’s life.

“The benefits of mentorship extend far beyond the child,” reflects Terilee. “It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the impact you have on children’s lives.” For many vulnerable children struggling with self-esteem issues, becoming part of their Big’s family provides a sense of inclusion and belonging. Terilee adds, “It’s a full-circle moment when these children grow into young adults and become mentors themselves. Being a Big, offers opportunities to these children that might not otherwise be available to them.”

Volunteering runs in the family

When we asked Terilee what drew her to become a volunteer with BBBSN, she explained that during her formative years, her mother was a Big Sister. “Growing up we always had other kids around, we didn’t understand it then, but they were part of our family, and it was great. I knew I always wanted to follow in her footsteps, so when I turned 18, I got the training and haven’t looked back.”

For many vulnerable children struggling with self-esteem issues, becoming part of their Big’s family provides a sense of inclusion and belonging. Terilee adds, “It’s a full-circle moment when these children grow into young adults and become mentors themselves.

Highlighting the importance of investing in our children as the future, Terilee underscores that every child, regardless of socioeconomic status, deserves a mentor. Despite this, many children remain on waitlists for these programs for extended periods. Mentors like Terilee provide essential support, helping children navigate life’s challenges and build resilience. However, the need for more volunteers is critical to ensure every child receives the guidance they deserve. By investing in mentorship, we create a brighter future for our youth and community. Stories like Frankie and Terilee’s are proof of the significant impact supportive mentors have on our youth.