Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon asks you to consider giving the valuable gift of mentorship this holiday season
KTVZ
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – This holiday season, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon, a program of J Bar J Youth Services, encourages the community to “Give the Gift of Mentorship” by becoming a mentor to a local child.
With 90 youth currently on the waitlist, there is a growing and urgent need for caring adults to step forward, according to BBBSCO, a 21 Cares for Kids partner.
For many families, the holidays represent hope, connection, and support. Yet dozens of children in Central Oregon are still waiting for a mentor. Someone who will show up, listen, encourage, and help them navigate everyday challenges. By becoming a Big, community members can offer a gift that lasts long beyond the holiday season.
“Mentorship is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give,” says Jenn Davis, Program Director of BBBSCO. “Our Littles are incredible kids with so much potential. They simply need a consistent, caring adult in their corner. This holiday season, we’re asking our community to help us meet this urgent need.”
What Being a Mentor Means
Bigs meet with their Littles 2–4 times a month for low or no cost activities like exploring parks, sharing hobbies, cooking meals together, or simply talking about school and life. BBBSCO provides ongoing training, support, and resources to help every match thrive.
How to Get Involved
Becoming a Big is easier than many people think. Volunteers complete an application and background check and have an interview. BBBSCO’s team then thoughtfully matches each Big and Little based on shared interests and compatibility.
Give the gift of mentorship this holiday season. Just a few hours a month can change a child’s life—and often the mentor’s as well.
To learn more or begin the process, visit www.bbbsco.org.
About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon
A program of J Bar J Youth Services, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon was founded in 1994. The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. BBBSCO serves over 220 youth annually and continues to grow programming. We are committed to serving at-risk youth and youth facing adversity with mentors in our community.