No Results Found.
The page you requested could not be found. Try refining your search, or use the navigation above to locate the post.
Life-Changing Youth Mentorship in Ottawa
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa matches children and youth with caring mentors to build confidence, resilience, and brighter futures — right here in our community.
We are excited to introduce our new, limited time series, Voices of BBBSO. Listen to stories of impact, support and growth from a few of the dedicated supporters, volunteers and matches that have been touched by our work over the years.
Community Updates & Impact
What’s happening in our community — and how mentorship is making a measurable difference.
Annual Impact Reports
Explore our latest annual report to see how mentoring supports children and youth across Ottawa — and how community support fuels safe, evidence-based programs.
Youth supported
%
Reported improved confidence
Who We Support Through Mentorship
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa supports children, youth, and the adults around them through structured, evidence-based mentorship programs designed to strengthen confidence, connection, and wellbeing.
For Children & Youth
One-to-one and group mentoring programs that help young people build confidence, develop life skills, and feel supported during critical stages of growth.
For Parents & Caregivers
Safe, structured mentoring that complements family support and helps children navigate school, relationships, and everyday challenges.
For Volunteers & Mentors
Make a meaningful difference by building a consistent, supportive relationship with a young person in your community.
For Donors & Community Partners
Support proven youth development programs that deliver measurable, long-term impact across Ottawa.
PRISM
Mentorship for Youth with Care Experience
Big Steps to Success
Mentorship for Youth with Care Experience
BIGS Community Mentoring Program
One-to-One Community Mentoring (Ages 6–14)
Big Possibilities Mentoring Program
Youth Employment Readiness Mentoring (Ages 15–24)
MPower Youth Mentoring Program
Youth-Directed Mentoring (Ages 15–24)
In-School Mentoring Program
School-Based Mentoring
A Proven Approach to Youth Mentorship
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa delivers evidence-based mentoring programs backed by decades of research, rigorous screening, and ongoing match support. Our local team works closely with families, schools, and community partners to ensure safe, consistent, and meaningful outcomes for youth.
Evidence-Based Programs
Our mentoring programs are built on research-informed models that have been refined over decades. Program design, matching practices, and ongoing support are guided by best practices in youth development to ensure mentoring relationships are intentional, structured, and effective.
We don’t rely on one-size-fits-all solutions. Programs are continuously reviewed and adapted to meet the evolving needs of children and youth, while maintaining consistency with proven mentoring frameworks.
Safety & Screening
The safety and wellbeing of children and youth is central to everything we do. All mentors undergo a comprehensive screening process, including background checks, interviews, and reference verification, before being matched with a young person.
Once matched, mentors receive training and ongoing support from BBBSO staff to help ensure relationships remain positive, appropriate, and responsive to changing needs over time.
Local Delivery, National Standards
Our programs are delivered by an Ottawa-based team with deep knowledge of the local community, schools, and families we serve. At the same time, our work aligns with nationally recognized Big Brothers Big Sisters standards to ensure consistency, accountability, and quality.
This balance allows us to respond to local needs while maintaining the integrity of a trusted mentoring model used across Canada.
Measurable Outcomes
We track program participation and outcomes to better understand what works and where improvements are needed. Ongoing evaluation helps strengthen mentoring relationships, improve program delivery, and demonstrate the real impact of mentorship on youth confidence, wellbeing, and connection.
Accountability ensures community support is used responsibly and effectively to benefit children and youth.
Real Mentoring. Real Impact.
November 28
This December is Giving Season - Are you ready to #IgnitePotential in Ottawa's young people?
November 6
What does BBBSO ACTUALLY do, how do we do it and what impact does it have? Listen to this broadcast to find out.
September 3
Home Hardware once again celebrates Big Brothers Big Sisters Month with a generous Fall fundraising campaign!
Proudly Supported by Community Partners
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa (BBBSO) is supported by the Government of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund and Ottawa Community Foundation.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re interested in becoming a mentor or looking for support for a child or youth, we’re here to guide you through the next steps.