Volunteer Opportunities for High Schoolers

PEER-TO-PEER MENTORING IS POWERFUL

When a high school student mentors an elementary or middle school student, both students win in Big ways. A teenage mentor can feel more relatable and approachable than an adult, making it safer to ask “silly” questions. For the teen volunteer, mentoring develops communication, empathy and leadership skills.

Participants in BBBS of Broward’s school mentoring programs have:

  • Improved academic performance
  • Avoided risky behaviors
  • Shown greater confidence
  • Established stronger relationships

BBBS of BROWARD’S PEER MENTORING ROLES

There are four important roles in all BBBS of Broward’s volunteer programs for schools: the organization’s role, the school’s role, the mentor’s role (the Big), and the mentee’s role (the Little).

BBBS of Broward’s Role BBBS of Broward facilitates meaningful matches between high school Bigs and Littles, maintains relationships with local schools. We support every mentor, young person, and family, offering continuous support and guidance to help each unique match thrive and reach their goals together.
School’s Role Schools play a vital role by referring students who would truly benefit from having a dedicated mentor in their corner, while also helping recruit passionate high school volunteers from clubs like Key Club and Peer Counseling.
High School Big’s Role As a high school Big, you’ll build a strong, trusting mentor relationship with the student you’re matched with and commit to a full year of consistent mentoring at the school on a weekly basis.
Little’s Role Littles are always encouraged — never pressured — to actively shape their mentor relationship by sharing their needs, expressing their feelings and offering feedback to their mentor, the school and BBBS Program Specialist.

FAQs ABOUT VOLUNTEERING FOR BBBS HIGH SCHOOLERS

To become a Big, each high school student must complete a volunteer application, provide parental release and go through an in-person interview with a Big Brothers Big Sisters staff member.

Each high school Big is paired with one youth to mentor, but will meet in a group setting with all the high school Bigs from their school.

After completing the interview with BBBS of Broward, volunteers must complete 1 hour of training prior to being matched.

After completing the interview with BBBS of Broward, volunteers must complete 1 hour of training prior to being matched.

Each high school Big is paired with one youth Little to mentor, typically weekly. Additionally, Bigs meet in a group setting with all the high school Bigs from their school. The BBBS volunteer coordinator (Program Specialist) is on call for questions, concerns and support throughout the match.

One-to-one mentoring sessions focus on academic achievement, social skills, and positive peer relationships. Matches can decide what they want to do. Some choose to work on homework, do crafts, play board games, or enjoy a snack and conversation.

High school Bigs can obtain community service hours for mentoring if approved via their school’s administration.

Big Brothers Big Sisters provides graduation cords to our high school Bigs after the following criteria is met:

  • Minimum of 2 academic years (1 hr/week)
  • No more than 3 excused absences (per academic year)
  • No more than 2 unexcused absences (per school year)
  • Minimum of 18 hours of mentoring each school year during two or more consecutive years
  • Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher

GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY:

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READY TO UNLOCK YOUR POTENTIAL?
CALL 954.584.9990 OR E-MAIL US TO ENROLL IN OUR PROGRAM TODAY!

Youth in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward Program*

100% Graduated from high school
Improved in emotional regulation, social competence, and school connectedness.
99% Stayed out of the juvenile justice system

*Based on our Annual Report 2024

DEDICATED TO CREATING AND SUPPORTING MENTORING RELATIONSHIPS THAT IGNITE THE POWER AND PROMISE OF YOUTH

DEDICATED TO CREATING AND SUPPORTING MENTORING RELATIONSHIPS THAT IGNITE THE POWER AND PROMISE OF YOUTH.