2026 Monthly Big Meetups Recap
February 11, 2026, Nohad Awada
Every month, Bigs from across the greater Twin Cities come together at our Big Meetups for mutual support and guidance on their youth mentoring journeys. Facilitated by staff at our office in North Minneapolis or out and about in community, these monthly meetups provide a welcoming and safe space for Bigs to discuss new topics, learn from each other’s mentoring experiences, and build a stronger community of Bigs doing BIG things to amplify youth power and potential.
If you couldn’t attend, don’t worry! Here are the key takeaways and insights from each month’s discussion.
February Big Meetup Recap: Bigs Mentor Bigs
Current Bigs and Future Bigs gathered in community at Black Stack Brewing to discuss the impact mentoring has had on their lives and relationships with Littles and beyond. Guided by our staff at Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities (BBBSTC), mentors asked questions, gave honest answers, and discussed external events that could impact how they show up for youth.
Question 1: Do you have anything on top of mind you’d like to discuss?
Bigs mentioned the increased I.C.E (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) activity in the Twin Cities as a pressing issue they are navigating with their Littles. Bigs discussed the various ways youth have been impacted, including: Littles’ classmates and friends missing school and the impact this has had on their friendships, shifting activities and plans to ensure safety, and initiating difficult conversations.
When BBBSTC staff asked how they’re navigating these challenges, Bigs said that they are giving their Littles the choice of sitting down and having a conversation about it or simply disconnecting, recharging, and enjoying their time together without bringing it up. They also mentioned that many younger Littles aren’t aware of the issue or have limited understanding of its impacts.
Question 2: How are you navigating car rides with your Little?
Many Bigs bonded over a shared experience: silence in car rides before the outing. They mentioned that some Littles may be shy and not talkative when they get picked up, but will be more conversational after their hangout when they are being dropped off. They also mentioned that listening to music in the car together is a great bonding experience that takes the pressure off filling silence with conversation.
Question 3: How do you plan logistics and contact with your Littles’ parents and caregivers?
Bigs mentioned that they usually have group chats with their Littles’ parents so they can get approval on activities and outings. They also coordinate outings and confirm pick up and drop off times by texting or calling. BBBSTC Staff also mentioned shared that Littles’ family members are invited to the 4 large quarterly events we host. They highlighted these events’ importance for getting to know Littles’ families and building a relationship with them.
Question 4: Prospective Bigs asked current Bigs to share one thing they wish they knew when they started mentoring through BBBSTC.
Current Bigs answered with the following:
- “The trainings were great, so I felt like I was ready for the program.”
- “This is a commitment. Be consistent. Being responsible and having a schedule helps.”
- “My little told me on one of our outings that she wanted to share 2 things she really appreciated about me: ‘You are on time, and you do what you say you are going to do.'”
- “Have a conversation with caregivers about what are their expectations of what this program are, and be on the same page for expectations.”
- “At any point, circle back with caregivers and ask how they think things are going, what are areas I can improve, and ask for feedback.”
Question 5: Prospective Bigs asked current Bigs: What’s your favorite thing about being a Big?
Current Bigs answered with the following:
- “There is so much growth and evolution since I have been matched for 2 years now.”
- “My Little when we were first matched was very shy and quiet. And now that my Little is 15, we are able to banter together and I get to see his confidence grow over time.”
- “Trying new things in the community and feeling connected to something bigger.”
- “My Little hand wrote me a Christmas card this past Christmas and shared in the card the difference I have made […in their life].”
- “It is the little things more than the big moments.”
- “[After experiencing a personal loss,] my Little wrote me a card, got me flowers, and gave me my favorite candy that we spoke about at the beginning of us being matched. It truly showed that my Little is listening during our conversations.”
BIG thank you to the current and future Bigs who joined us for the February Big Meetup! We are so grateful to have you in our community and are looking forward to showing up for Twin Cities youth together.
Stay tuned for more updates, and we look forward to seeing you at our next Big Meetup!
Inspired by what you read? We’re always seeking adults who can volunteer as great mentors for Twin Cities youth! Get started by learning more about our mentoring programs and signing up on our volunteer page.
