DISCOVERING THE WORLD, TOGETHER
The relationship between a Big and a Little is built on trust and consistency. A Little sees their Big as someone to talk to about problems and fears, goals and dreams – someone who cares about their science test and their basketball game. By simply spending time and enjoying each other’s company, a Big nurtures a Little to reach their full potential.
Community-Based Programs
Our best-known and most flexible program. Bigs and Littles meet 2 to 4 times a month and do things like watch a movie, make dinner, play basketball, or visit the library. Bigs and Littles decide when they meet and what they’ll do.
Couples/Family Match
Couples or entire families can be matched with one child. Each person goes through the interview and clearance process and can be involved with the child individually or as a whole group.
Community-Based 1:1 Mentoring
Bigs expand their Littles’ world view and introduce them to new experiences through community activities and everyday conversation.
Site-Based Programs
For children, teens, and adults who prefer more structure. Bigs and Littles meet at a designated location. The largest Big Brothers Big Sisters site-based program is our school-based program. The match meets at the Little’s school before, during or after school.
Bigs in Schools
Sometimes the best place for enjoying activities together is at the child’s school. Although you can talk with your Little about class or do homework, this is not a tutoring program. It’s perfectly fine to play checkers or build a rocket.
At the end of the day, it’s really about starting a friendship, providing guidance, and inspiring your Little to reach their potential.
Bigs in Blue
This national initiative is designed to introduce youth to active-duty law enforcement officers who serve as mentors. Each officer meets with their Little a few times each month on-site at the child’s school.
This program builds friendships and opens lines of communication between youth and law enforcement officers.
HS Bigs & College Bigs
High school and college students learn leadership skills while volunteering as mentors at nearby elementary and middle schools.
Beyond School Walls
This customized curriculum-based mentoring program, launched in 2016, introduces high school students to professionals from area businesses, trades and higher education. Students and adult mentors meet bi-monthly at a corporate, educational or community location to inspire and prepare students for their future.
The multi-year program provides students with the benefits of career exploration, soft skill development, and motivation to graduate with a plan to be enrolled, enlisted or employed.
We have programs at Capital Blue Cross, Deloitte, The GIANT Company, Mid Penn Bank, UGI Utilities & Penn National Insurance.
Sports Buddies
Bigs and Littles meet at their local YMCA to swim, workout and participate in YMCA-hosted programs.
Youth Rise
This program empowers youth to lead, influence, and inspire through student-led conversations focused on amplifying youth voice and empowerment. High school students are paired with middle school mentees to build meaningful connections and foster positive dialogue. This program creates space for young people to grow as leaders and advocates within their communities.
1:1 Plus
We provide our youth and families with community referrals and resources to meet their unique needs.
Wrap-Around Services
Bigs expand their Littles’ worldview and introduce them to new experiences through community activities and everyday conversation.
Annual Educational Experiences
Various field trips, career exploration and educational activities are offered throughout the year including:
