5 Reasons to Mentor Youth in 2025
January 2, 2025, Zinzile Sibanda
We know that every young person has unlimited potential. By becoming a Big, you can help amplify that potential, opening new doors for a young person while building a meaningful relationship. If you’ve ever thought about becoming a Big but still have questions, we’re here to help!
Here are five reasons why youth mentoring could be one of the most rewarding decisions you make:
1. Make a positive impact
As a Big, you have the opportunity to inspire and support a young person, helping them explore their interests and reach their goals. Whether you’re offering advice, cheering them on at a school performance, or simply being someone they can count on in addition to their caregivers, the impact you make is undeniable. Youth with a strong web of support that includes mentors tend to report higher confidence and ability to achieve their educational goals1.
2. Build a meaningful relationship
Youth report stronger developmental relationships with mentors (89%) than with family (85%), teachers (66%), or peers (60%)1. That’s because mentorship is about belonging, connection, and mutual growth. By spending time with your Little, you’ll create a bond based on trust, respect, and shared experiences. Many Bigs say they gain as much as they give, learning new perspectives and forming a lasting friendship. At BBBSTC, 95% of Bigs say they had a positive and fun experience as a youth mentor2.
3. Fit youth mentoring into your schedule
You don’t need to rearrange your entire life to be a youth mentor – it’s a flexible and doable volunteering commitment. Being a Big can fit into your life and schedule! Many Bigs spend a few hours a month with their Littles, participating in activities they both enjoy. Whether it’s attending a match hangout at our office in North Minneapolis, a community event, exploring hobbies, or just hanging out, the time you invest makes a big impact.
4. Receive mentoring support every step of the way
No prior experience as a youth mentor? No problem! At BBBSTC, we provide all the resources, training, and guidance you need to feel confident in your role. From your first day to your ongoing journey as a Big, our team is here to support you with pre-planned hangouts, activity ideas, helpful tools, and loads of encouragement.
5. Amplify the power and potential of youth right here in the Twin Cities
Every young person has unique strengths and talents. As a mentor, you’ll help your Little discover and develop those strengths, empowering them to dream big and pursue their aspirations. By becoming a Big, you’re investing in the future of our Twin Cities community.
Ready to start your mentoring journey?
By becoming a Big, you’re not just volunteering your time—you’re amplifying the potential that already exists in the youth of our community. Together, we can create a Twin Cities where every child has the opportunity to thrive with a mentor by their side.
1 Boat, A. A., Van Steenis, E., & Poparad, H. (2024). Positioning Mentors as Social Capital Builders [Insights & Evidence Series]. Search Institute.
