Top 5 Benefits of Being a Mentor in Seattle & Tacoma

Support a Kid. Mentor a Child. Make a Positive Impact. 

Becoming a mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound isn’t just a way to give back; it’s one of the most fulfilling ways to support a kid in your community while growing as a person. Whether you live in Seattle, Tacoma, Kent, Auburn, or anywhere in South King County, Pierce/Kitsap Counties, you can volunteer in your area and change a young person’s life, just by showing up 4 each month. 

Here are the top five reasons why being a Big is as powerful for you as it is for your Little. 

  1. Supercharge your sense of purpose

Just one hour a week or a total of four hours a month can help you feel more grounded, fulfilled, and connected. Mentoring allows you to support a kid by being a steady, encouraging presence in their life. The reward? A deeper sense of self-worth and lasting satisfaction knowing you’re making a real difference. 

  1. Bring meaning and inspiration into everyday life

When you mentor a child, simple moments become deeply meaningful. Sharing your hobbies, learning about your Little’s dreams, or tackling life’s questions together can reignite your own passion and remind you what really matters. 

Precious and Bethany inspire our community through their dedication and presence at each other’s milestones: https://inspirebig.org/precious-and-bethanys-story-the-mentoring-relationship/  

 

  1. Rediscover confidence by guiding through experience

Mentoring often reflects your own life back to you. Talking through challenges, setting goals, and offering advice helps your Little, but also helps you recognize how far you’ve come and offers new insights into challenges in your own life. When you mentor a child, you reconnect with your strengths and grow your confidence in the process. 

  1. Develop Leadership, Self-Awareness, and Life Satisfaction

When you mentor a child, you don’t just help them grow; you also grow effectively. Studies have shown that mentoring has been linked to improved self-awareness, greater life satisfaction, and stronger leadership development. Many mentors also report gaining new perspectives and skills that carry over into their personal and professional lives. 

“Orion is confident and knows what he likes,” Ken shared. “That inspires me because I was the opposite as a kid. Seeing him grow into himself has been amazing.”    

Ken and Orion are smiling at each otherRead more about Ken and Orion’s match story here: https://inspirebig.org/just-be-present-with-your-little-ken-and-orions-inspiring-journey/  

 

  1. Strengthen leadership and life skills

When you volunteer as a mentor, you practice important life skills like active listening, patience, and empathy. These moments of connection, whether you’re having a deep conversation or just sharing a laugh, can remind you how meaningful real human relationships are in today’s busy world. Mentoring helps you slow down, be present, and grow alongside your Little. 

“It’s not about being perfect, it’s about showing up and being real. That’s where the connection happens.” — Amy, Match Specialist. 

Ready to Mentor a Child in Your Area? 

Now is the perfect time to volunteer in your area. There are Littles in Tacoma, Seattle, and beyond waiting for someone just like you. We’ll walk you through every step of the process to ensure you feel supported and confident. 

Take the first step now: 

  1. Visit inspirebig.org/become-a-big 
  1. Complete a simple form to share your interests and location: https://bbbs.tfaforms.net/f/MentorInquiry  
  1. Get Vetted: Complete our application and background check process, including an interview. 
  1. Get matched with a child who shares your personality and passions 

When you mentor a child, you don’t just guide their future, you change your own. Let today be the day you decide to support a kid and make a positive impact on your community. 

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