Site Based Mentoring
Great Locations for Meaningful Interactions
Our Site Based Mentoring Programs are one way that mentors (Bigs) can help shape the future of students (Littles) across Metro Chicago. Each program is led by a professional Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago (BBBSMC) staff member and includes time for relationship building, a structured group activity and free time to share stories and interests together. Click here to view a list of all of our available programs.
BBBSMC offers four types of Site Based Mentoring Programs:
Workplace: These programs pair one specific workplace with one school. Littles are transported from their school to the workplace, after school, twice per month to meet with their mentor who is an employee at the workplace. Workplace Mentoring enables students to see a future beyond high school and gain experience in a corporate environment. Skills learned in these programs help students achieve personal and academic success.
Neighborhood-Based: Community Centers are often the backbone of many communities so what better place to mentor a young person? These programs take place in a common community space or neighborhood center and matches meet 2-4 times a month. Matches are able to participate in field trips throughout the year, play games, work on homework, and develop strong supportive relationships.
School-Based: Meeting with a child in their own environment can lend to building a strong and unique relationship. These programs often pair a specific university with a K-12 school, allowing the university students or other members of the college community to meet at the Little’s school. The program runs throughout the school year with after school sessions taking place 2-4 times a month. Bigs and Littles enjoy getting to know each other, playing games, spending 1:1 time together, and having fun!