Big Brothers Big Sisters
Children need adults who are willing to listen to them, give them ideas and encourage them. Big Brothers Big Sisters is a tried and tested mentoring programme that is now firmly established in more than ten countries.
The German launch of Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) took place in the Mannheim region in 2007. As an independent, not-for-profit organisation, BBBS finds volunteer mentors for children and young people from a wide range of backgrounds. Some have an immigrant background, while others come from working-class families. Others still are being raised by a single mother and so lack a male friend and role model. Then there are those who need guidance and support to help them through a difficult phase. Boys are assigned male mentors and girls female mentors. The two then meet every one or two weeks, whether to do something specific or simply to have quality time together. From time to time, the BBBS regional offices also organise group events for both children and mentors. These events, which can include anything from raft-building to rocket-car racing, are a great opportunity for mentors to share ideas and experience – and have lots of fun at the same time!
