The Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program pairs caring adult volunteers (Bigs) with children and youth (Littles) who could benefit from a positive role model in their lives. This youth mentoring program has been shown to have many benefits, including improved academics, behavior, and relationships. For these Big and Little matches to truly thrive, parental support and involvement is crucial. Here’s how parents can help build an impactful mentoring relationship.
The Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program pairs caring adult volunteers (Bigs) with children and youth (Littles) who could benefit from a positive role model in their lives. This youth mentoring program has been shown to have many benefits, including improved academics, behavior, and relationships. For these Big and Little matches to truly thrive, parental support and involvement is crucial. Here’s how parents can help build an impactful mentoring relationship.
Trust and Communication is Key
Bigs and Littles will get the most out of their time together if there is open communication between the Big, the Little, and the Little’s parent(s). Parents should make an effort to regularly talk with their child and their Big about how the match is going. Ask about their latest outing or activity. Show interest in hearing about what they discussed or did. This keeps parents “in the loop” so they can provide better support.
Support for Mentors
Support for mentors within the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Nevada program is multifaceted, with parental involvement serving as a cornerstone in this endeavor. Recognizing the pivotal role of families as partners, BBBSN places a strong emphasis on fostering a collaborative environment where mentors feel supported and empowered in their mentoring journey.
Parental involvement not only enhances the mentor-mentee relationship, but also provides mentors with a valuable support network. By actively engaging with parents, mentors gain insights into the child's background, interests, and needs, laying the groundwork for a more meaningful and effective mentoring experience. Moreover, parental involvement serves as a conduit for building trust and rapport between mentors and mentees, as mentors are perceived as trusted allies within the familial context.
In addition to parental involvement, BBBS offers a range of resources and support mechanisms to mentors, ensuring they have the tools and guidance needed to succeed in their role. Mentors receive comprehensive training that equips them with essential skills in relationship-building, effective communication, and understanding child development. This training not only empowers mentors to navigate the complexities of the mentoring relationship, but also instills confidence in their ability to make a positive impact on their mentee's life.
Get Involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters Today
Besides getting support for your own child’s match, parents can benefit by getting involved with agency activities, attend parent workshops, or volunteer at match outings or events. These actions allow you to mentor other parents, learn ways to better support your Little, and form connections with program staff.
The mentoring relationships built through BBBSN have immense power to put youth on the path to reaching their potential. While Bigs dedicate their time, Littles bring an openness to grow. And as parents, you hold an instrumental role in fostering the communication, encouragement, and collaboration needed to help these matches thrive. Your involvement as a partner can be the difference-maker that allows your child to reap all the life-changing rewards of mentoring. So open those lines of discussion, offer your help, and engage with your BBBS agency. By actively supporting this village of mentoring, you’ll give your Little the best opportunity to shine.
Join us in illuminating the lives of youth throughout Southern Nevada. Together, let's empower them to reach their fullest potential. Whether you're ready to mentor, contribute as a donor, or stand as an advocate, your support is priceless. Start paving the way for a brighter tomorrow for our youth — connect with Big Brothers Big Sisters today and contribute to the transformative change we're forging together.