by June Portnoy
National Mentoring Month is an annual campaign celebrated every January to raise awareness about the profound impact of mentoring. At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks County (BBBSBC), located in Jamison, this month holds special significance. According to Christina Roebuck, Director of Programs at BBBSBC, January is not just a time for reflection on past achievements but a call to action to recruit new mentors who can transform the lives of children in the community.
“We kick off the start of the new year by sharing with the public what we’ve done the year before,” Christina explains. “Through social media, we highlight different matches from years past, showing the faces of the Bigs and Littles and sharing their stories. It’s our way of demonstrating the impact of mentoring and inviting others to join us.”
Mentoring at BBBSBC is more than just pairing an adult with a child. It’s a highly personalized process designed to ensure a meaningful and lasting connection. Children, or “Littles,” aged 7 to 16. are matched with “Bigs,” adult volunteers from the community. Christina emphasizes the importance of compatibility: “We spend hours interviewing both parties to understand their interests, goals, and preferences. This way, we can create matches that truly complement each other.”
The program requires a 15-month minimum commitment, with Bigs and Littles meeting two to four times a month for about two hours per session. This schedule, while flexible, ensures consistency, a key factor in fostering trust and meaningful growth. Research supports this approach, showing that longer-term mentoring relationships lead to better outcomes for youth.
“Mentors meet with children out in the community,” Christina says. “It could be something as simple as grabbing lunch together or engaging in a shared hobby. What matters is the quality of the interaction and the consistency of the relationship.”
In Bucks County, the need for mentoring is greater than ever. Christina points out a growing trend of children being raised by grandparents or great-grandparents, as well as an increase in single-parent households. “These kids often lack consistent adult role models who can provide the one-on-one attention they need to thrive,” she says. “Mentoring fills that gap and helps these children build confidence, develop social skills, and envision a brighter future.”
The mental health challenges facing young people today also underscore the importance of mentoring. With rising rates of anxiety and depression, children need supportive relationships outside their immediate family to help them navigate life’s complexities. “One-to-one connections are more critical than ever,” Christina notes. “Mentors can provide the social and emotional support that so many kids are missing.”
With nearly 50 children on the waitlist at the start of 2025, BBBSBC kicks off January focused on recruiting new volunteer mentors and making new matches. Christina acknowledges that matching every child on the waitlist is an ambitious goal, but she remains optimistic: “If we get close, we’re succeeding at our mission. Every new volunteer means another child receives the guidance and support they need.”
Becoming a mentor is a commitment, but it’s also deeply rewarding. “Volunteers are often surprised at how much they gain from the experience,” Christina shares. “Not only do they make a difference in a child’s life, but they also build connections with other mentors and become part of a supportive community.”
Katrina, BBBSBC’s Director of Development, highlights the critical role of donations in sustaining and expanding their programs. “Generous contributions allow us to reach more children, enhance our training for mentors, and cover essential operational costs,” she says. “Every donation, big or small, empowers our youth and strengthens our community.”
Funds raised during January help provide free or discounted activities for matches, such as tickets to local events, museum passes, and meals. “These resources reduce the financial burden on our volunteers and ensure that every child has access to enriching experiences,” Katrina adds.
The benefits of mentoring extend far beyond the individual child. Studies show that children with mentors are more likely to excel in school, develop better relationships with family and peers, and avoid risky behaviors. This positive impact ripples out to their families and communities.
“Mentors are not just changing one life,” Christina emphasizes. “Their influence can uplift entire families and communities. Many of our Littles grow up to become mentors themselves, continuing the cycle of positive change.”
BBBSBC’s impact is evident in the enduring bonds formed through its programs. Christina recounts several stories of former Littles who remain in contact with their Bigs decades later. Some have even returned to the program as mentors. “These lasting relationships are a testament to the power of mentoring,” she says.
One such story involves a Little who recently reached out to BBBSBC. Now in his late 20/early 30s, he expressed interest in becoming a Big himself. “He told us he’s still in touch with the mentor who guided him through his childhood,” Christina shares. “It’s heartwarming to see the full circle of mentorship.”
Each match costs about $2,200 a year to create and maintain. This cost includes all enrollment processes: background checks, training, interviews for the Big, Little, and guardian, as well as the matching process and ongoing match support. Once a match is made, BBBSBC conducts routine monthly checkins that ensure the health of the match throughout the year. The agency prides itself on child safety and on-call support, and provides free and discounted resources for the Big, Little, and families involved.”
If you’re ready to make a difference, becoming a Big is the first step. Visit BBBSBC’s website at www.bbbsbc.org/program-enrollment to view the orientation slideshow and complete an application. You can contact Christina Roebuck directly at 215-343-8260 for more information.
For those unable to mentor but eager to support, donations are always welcome. Contributions can be made online at www.bbbsbc.org/donate or by sending a check to BBBSBC’s office at 2875 York Rd., Jamison, PA, 18929.