One caring adult. One student. One lunch period at a time.
Site-based programs are partnerships between schools, volunteer mentors, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound (BBBSPS). Mentors meet one-to-one with students at school, during the school day. Our staff work side by side with school staff to support every student and every mentor.
You do not need special expertise. Your consistency is the asset. Our team plans and manages the program. You show up and be present for a young person.
Stay with a student through the school year and you will make a real difference. You will grow too.
of youth improved or maintained healthy emotion regulation
Stronger relationships
Stronger relationships
%
of youth improved or maintained family connectedness
Social competence
Social competence
%
of youth improved or maintained social competence
Stronger emotional wellbeing
Stronger emotional wellbeing
%
of youth improved or maintained healthy emotion regulation
Stronger relationships
Stronger relationships
%
of youth improved or maintained family connectedness
Social competence
Social competence
%
of youth improved or maintained social competence
WHAT MENTORING
LOOKS LIKE IN A SITE-BASED PROGRAM
In a site-based program, Bigs (mentors) and Littles (students) build real relationships in a safe, supportive space at school. Meeting during the school day makes it easy to show up and stay consistent.
You will be ready. Every Big completes training before the first visit:
Mentor orientation and Pre-Match Training
Online training from national Big Brothers Big Sisters of America
Seattle School District training
Youth Mental Health First Aid (optional)
“How to Talk So Kids Will Listen” (optional)
New to mentoring? This is a strong place to begin. Our staff check in with you every month and offer feedback and tools along the way. That support helps you build confidence and deepen your bond with your Little.
How it Works
Once a quarter, our staff host a Future Ready Youth activity that brings mentors and students together.
1
One Big, one Little. Every mentor is matched with one student.
2
Visit at least twice a month. Meet on a schedule that works for you.
3
Connect over lunch. Eat, talk, and get to know each other at school.
4
Commit to one year. Consistency is what makes the difference.
Current Site-Based Programs:
Big Futures
Big Futures connects students with caring adult mentors during the school day. Mentors visit at lunch at least twice a month. Most of your time together is simple and unhurried: lunch, conversation, and getting to know each other. Students build confidence, connection, and a sense of what is possible.
Where
McClure Middle School, Queen Anne (6th to 8th grade)
Orca K-8 School, Columbia City (1st to 8th grade)
GET INVOLVED
Big things happen when a community shows up together.
School Partners
Bring high-quality mentoring to the students who need it most.
Local Businesses
Provide mentors, funding, and more to make a community impact.
Youth
Set goals for your future with a mentor in your corner.
Our Testimonials
What People Say
“It’s not really that we’re [Bigs] helping them, its that we are assisting them in accessing the resources they need to make stuff happen. These kids now; they know whats good. They are brilliant and creative. They’re link: Give me an opportunity and I’ll run with it.”
DarnellBig Brother
“My Little has the crayon box, and she just needs help to identify the colors. Yes, being in the corner as a Big is important, but kids are doing the thing. Whatever she does next is going to be brilliant. It doesn’t even matter if it takes her a while … like the opportunity to witness that was just like … oh, my gosh.”
AnonymousBig Sister
“Having a Big is awesome! It’s like having this incredible friend who’s got my back, helping me navigate the world, and teaching me valuable life lessons.”
GabrielHigh School Little
“Big Brothers Big Sisters has been a blessing in my life. All 3 of my children have had Bigs, and each Big has been just the right person to connect with them.”
ChavelaParent of 3 Littles
SAFETY COMES FIRST
Every young person and every mentor deserves to feel safe. That is why every prospective Big goes through a thorough screening:
A full application
A video interview
Personal and professional references, plus references from any youth-serving organization you have worked with in the last five years
Background checks, fingerprinting, and a DMV check
Seattle School District training
We hold the bar high so every match is safe, trusted, and positive.
FAQ’s
Who are the Bigs in the program?
Bigs come from all backgrounds, just like our Littles. They are everyday people. You do not need a special degree or job skills. You just need to want to show up for a young person.
How do I sign up to be a site-based mentor?
Select Learn more on the program that interests you, then choose Become a Big. Start with a short inquiry form or complete the full application. A member of our team will follow up.
Do I have to plan activities?
No. Most visits are relaxed time over lunch, talking and getting to know each other. Staff provide guidance and host a facilitated activity once a quarter.
What if I need to miss a visit?
Consistency matters. When a mentor misses a visit, a student can feel left out, and some blame themselves. A few planned absences are fine. Just tell us ahead of time so we can let your Little know.
How long does the process take?
Expect an interview, reference and background checks, and training before you are matched. Applications are open year-round, and we match mentors throughout most of the school year.
What are the requirements?
Bigs must be at least 18. You will also complete the full application, including references and background checks.
