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

*2024 BBBST Annual Report, page 7.

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.

Siobhan Calderbank's Bio

Siobhan Calderbank is an award-winning keynote speaker, leadership strategist, and Talent & Human Resources Executive with more than 20 years of experience transforming organizations, building inclusive cultures, and developing diverse leadership pipelines. Currently serving as Vice President, Talent & Performance Management at Element Fleet Management, she is recognized for leading large-scale organizational transformation, advancing talent and leadership strategies, and helping organizations build high-performing, future-ready teams.

Recognizing the need for greater access to mentorship and leadership development, Siobhan is dedicated to empowering women and youth, particularly those from underrepresented communities, through coaching, career development, networking, financial aid, and leadership-building opportunities. Her commitment to creating pathways for others to succeed is reflected in her extensive mentorship, community leadership, and advocacy efforts focused on supporting youth, women, newcomers, and emerging leaders.

As a globally recognized speaker, Siobhan has inspired audiences from more than 70 countries through conferences, corporate events, and leadership forums. She is a published author and contributor featured alongside influential thought leaders including Oprah Winfrey, Maya Angelou, John Lewis, and Deepak Chopra. Her thought leadership on leadership, change management, inclusion, and talent development has been featured across numerous publications and media platforms. Her voice has been featured on ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and CW, and she has appeared on Reuters and Nasdaq billboards in Times Square, as well as Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas.

Siobhan has held several leadership and advisory roles supporting diversity, inclusion, mentorship, and community development initiatives. Her contributions have been recognized through numerous honours, including being named one of the Top 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women, receiving the Women of Inspiration Award for Diversity and Inclusiveness, and being recognized as one of the Top 100 Black Women to Watch in Canada.

She holds a Master of Arts in Leadership from Royal Roads University, a Certificate in Advanced Human Resources from Queen’s University, and a Bachelor of Commerce in Information Technology Management from Toronto Metropolitan University. Through her professional leadership and community service, Siobhan remains committed to helping individuals realize their potential and creating opportunities that enable future generations to thrive.