One-to-One Mentoring Programs
Big Brothers Mentoring
The Big Brothers Mentoring program is a community-based program that provides boys and young men with a role model to talk to and share the experiences of growing up with. Through regular outings, a relationship is developed between the mentor and the mentee, which is built on trust and common interests, and is supported by our experienced case-workers. The result is a life-changing experience for both the mentor and the mentee.
The Big Brothers Mentoring program usually requires two regularly scheduled outings a month of a few hours each and a minimum of a one year commitment.
Big Sisters Mentoring
The Big Sisters Mentoring program is a community-based program that provides girls and young women with a role model to talk to and share the experiences of growing up with. Through regular outings, a relationship is developed between the mentor and the mentee, which is built on trust and common interests, and is supported by our experienced case-workers. The result is a life-changing experience for both the mentor and the mentee.
The Big Sisters Mentoring program usually requires two regularly scheduled outings a month of several hours each and a minimum of a one year commitment.
In-School Mentoring
The In-School Mentoring program takes place at a number of partner schools and provides youth with an adult role model and a friend to talk to and share the experiences of growing up within school grounds. For one hour a week, mentors meet with their mentee and engage in activities such as board games, crafts or just hang out on school grounds.
The In-School Mentoring program requires a weekly visit of one hour for the duration of the school year. Matches do not meet over the summer break or during other school holidays.
In-School Teen Mentoring
The In-School Teen Mentoring program is just like our In-School Mentoring program and takes place at a number of partner schools. It involves Grade 11 or 12 students opportunity to spend one hour a week mentoring a child at an elementary school. The mentoring takes place on school property and involves activities of interest to both, such as playing board games, reading, playing on the computer, sports, crafts, etc.
The In-School Teen Mentoring program requires a weekly visit of 45 minutes to one hour for the duration of the school year. Matches do not meet over the summer break or during other school holidays.
Group Mentoring Programs
Go Girls! Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds!
Go Girls! is a group mentoring program for girls ages 12-14 that focuses on physical activity, balanced eating and self-esteem. The single, most important goal of the program is to positively shape the lives of young women and girls by helping them build a positive self-image – setting them on a path to reach their full potential in life.
The Go Girls! program consists of seven mentoring sessions, held over a 14 week period, within school facilities. Each 45 minute-long session is loosely structured around four themes: physical activity, healthy eating, self-esteem, and communication skills.
Game On! Eat Smart, Play Smart!
Game On! is a group mentoring program that provides boys and young men with information and support to make informed choices about a range of healthy lifestyle practices. Through non-traditional physical activities, complemented with healthy eating support, participants are engaged in life skills, communication, and emotional health discussions designed to engage participants in the pursuit of life-long healthy lifestyles.
Game On! includes seven core sessions spread over a period of 7-10 weeks. There are also four extension modules that capture potential issues and topics specific to various locales and the interests of the mentors and participants.
Classroom Based Freckle Post E-Mentoring
The Freckle Post is a virtual mentoring program developed by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Saint John. The program is designed for students in Grades 3–5. Each student is matched with an older student mentor, known as their “Big Buddy” to read short stories and exchange thoughtful letters through a secure online platform where all correspondence is monitored by a mentoring facilitator. Read all about this program’s amazing journey The Freckle Post Story!
The Freckle Post is a safe and engaging virtual mentoring program connecting students through stories and letters. The program nurtures literacy, self-expression, and confidence through reading and writing — all while fostering a supportive mentoring relationship. It’s more than just a program; it’s a chance to grow, connect, and discover the power of friendship through letter writing.
F – Fostering
R – Relationships
E – Expressing Care
C – Challenging Growth
K – Knowledge Sharing
L – Learning
E – Expanding Possibilities
The Freckle Post is designed to be a meaningful part of your child’s school day. Stories and conversation topics are thoughtfully selected by their teacher and the BBBS coordinator to support literacy, empathy, and personal growth. The program takes place during class time, so it won’t add to your child’s workload. However, each student will receive their own login information, allowing you to follow along at home and witness the friendship as it blossoms. It’s a wonderful way to stay connected to your child’s experience and celebrate their journey. All communication is securely monitored, with no personal contact information exchanged—so you can feel confident knowing your child is engaging in a safe, structured environment.
The program was supported by:
