ABOUT BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF TORONTO

MISSION

Together, we build thriving communities by empowering lives through mentorship

At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Toronto (BBBST), we believe that one caring adult can change the trajectory of a young person’s life. For over 100 years, BBBST has been changing lives by connecting youth across Toronto with mentors who inspire, guide, and empower them to reach their full potential.

HOW WE MAKE AN IMPACT 

BBBST scored an 89% efficacy rate when measuring our intervention through the Impact Genome Registry.*

In 2024, BBBST mentors volunteered over 36,700 hours, mentoring 1,488 youth. With 89% efficacy, BBBST proves that Littles achieve a positive outcome of improved social emotional skills because of our programs. As a result, young people succeed in school, overcome adversity and resist danger, maintain good mental and physical health, exhibit leadership and delay gratification, help others and value diversity.

WHO WE SERVE 

Our mentees reflect the diversity of Toronto in terms of interests, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic group, challenges and strengths.

To meet the needs of our mentees, our caring, consistent mentors dedicate a minimum of one year (1-2/week) to be a provider of knowledge, guidance and support to mentees so they can thrive.

Our Prioritized Communities
  • Etobicoke, Rexdale & Jane-Finch, North York, Downtown, and Scarborough
  • 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth, Indigenous Youth, Black Youth, and Youth in Care
 
Youth with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
  • ACEs are potential traumatic events that occur in childhood (0-17 years of age)
  • Linked to chronic health problems, mental illness, substance abuse problems, among other issues
  • ACEs can have a negative impact on a mentee’s education, job opportunities, and reaching their full potential

Urgent need: There are over 400 children and youth from across Toronto on the BBBST waitlist waiting for a highly motivated mentor that can guide them towards a brighter future. Over 7 out of 10 identify as male. If you or someone you know would make a great mentor, be sure to sign up today and support children and youth in your community.

“Seeing what my Big did for me, I knew I wanted to have that same impact on a Little one day. I’m proud to be a Big today.” Romina’s story is a powerful example of mentorship across generations. Watch her story to see how having a caring adult in her corner empowered her to become who she is today.

OUR PROGRAMMING 

Our programs are inclusive to all young people who have, and are experiencing adversities and will benefit from mentorship to reach their full potential, regardless of race, culture, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.

GET INVOLVED

Whether you become a Big, support our programs, or partner with us, you can help create life-changing connections and build a lasting legacy of mentorship in Toronto.

Become a mentor today and help build the next generation of Bigs and Littles.

Make a donation to help maintain our programs and preserve over 100 years of impact.