For the past four years, Caroline has been a dedicated mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ottawa, creating a meaningful and lasting impact through her friendship, patience, and care.

To Caroline, being a mentor means showing up — being that steady, reliable person a young person can turn to for support, laughter, and encouragement. “It means being a safe place for a child,” she says. “Someone they can count on and come to with whatever is going on in their life — from worries and challenges to successes and celebrations.”

Over the years, Caroline and her mentee have shared countless fun memories, but one moment stands out: a rock concert they attended together after winning tickets through BBBSO. “We had so much fun planning our outfits, getting snacks, and rocking out! It was a new experience for us together,” she shares excitedly.

For anyone thinking about becoming a mentor, Caroline’s message is clear: go for it! “Be patient with the process — the team at BBBSO is amazing at what they do, and the wait for the right match is completely worth it. Although it’s a big commitment, it’s incredibly rewarding and adds a wonderful sense of purpose to your life.”

“You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to be patient and consistent. What matters most is that you show up.”

When asked what success in mentorship looks like, Caroline says it’s about trust and growth. “To me, success means trusting each other completely and seeing your mentee thrive and grow as a person — and being there with them every step of the way.”

Thank you, Caroline, for your dedication, compassion, and the light you bring to the community. Your commitment reminds us that showing up truly makes a difference!