Big Brothers Big Sisters of America was established 120 years ago to help children (Littles) reach their full potential with the support of volunteer mentors (Bigs). This continues to be done through professionally supported one-to-one relationships with measurable impact. As an affiliate of this national brand, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Birmingham (BBBS) has provided positive role models for youth through its programming for 52 years. Initiatives bolster self-esteem and improve the chances that children will find success in their academic, social, and family lives. 

Brothers Big Sisters develops positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people. Mentoring programs include:

• Community-Based Program – Matches are made based on preferences, similar interests, locations, and personalities. Adult volunteers commit to spending one-on-one time with their mentee at least twice per month for 3 – 5 hours per outing. Match activities are year-round and including spending time at the park, museums, sporting events and a variety of other community activities.
• School-Based Program – Mentors are matched with children from local schools.  Mentors can be adult volunteers or high school students.  Matches meet 2 – 4 times per month for one hour on school grounds during the school year and devote portions of their time each meeting on units and activities in BBBS’ curriculum as well as on homework, playing games or sports, or just hanging out. 
• Beyond School Walls (Workplace Mentoring) – During the school year, children enrolled in the program are bussed from their school twice per month to their partnering workplace. They are matched with an employee who spends time mentoring and sharing about their career.
• Big Couples - Big Couples is another one of our community-based mentoring programs where spouses or long-term partners can both become Bigs to a Little in our program.
• Bigs with Badges – This program is designed to help increase goodwill and connection between children in our community and local first responders. Matches meet regularly at school or in the community.
• Sister-to-Sister – This program provides girls in our community with mentoring services, especially those living in low-income housing. It stresses the importance of education, specifically finishing high school and preparing for higher education or employment opportunities after graduation. Activities increase academic capability, relationship skills, and critical thinking.
• Big Futures – This program focuses on workforce development. Children who are matched in the program may continue to be matched with their mentor until they turn 25 – receiving support and guidance when applying for jobs, completing college applications, or if joining the military.
• Heart Gallery - The Heart Gallery is a program partnership with the Heart Gallery of Alabama in which we provide mentoring services to youth in foster care.

*Click any program link below for more info.