Being a mentor is a matter of great pride. However, it is also a great opportunity that comes with its own set of responsibilities. Becoming a mentor allows you to create a bond with your mentee and learn from their life experiences as well. You learn as much as you teach and it is certainly a great learning experience.
At BBBSLI, we believe in empowering youth and do everything we can to ensure they have all the support they need. We have multiple youth mentorship programs for young individuals that are aimed at equipping them with tools to live a fulfilling life. Our programs are always in need of mentors or Bigs to help mentees or Littles create a better future for themselves.
Who is a Mentor at BBBSLI?
At BBBSLI, our mentors are known as Bigs. We choose them carefully to create a sustainable relationship that is aimed toward the growth of mentees or Littles. We understand how crucial the relationship between a mentor and the mentee is. Our team is dedicated and does everything in its power to ensure that the relationship between Big and Little is as fruitful as possible.
Our Bigs provide one-on-one mentoring to Littles. They provide them with career guidance, academic help, and emotional support. The Bigs spend a few hours every month with the Littles and participate in various activities that are aimed towards relationship-building and the overall development of the latter. The aim of our programs is to ensure that the Littles are provided with the care and help they need in order to grow and be successful adults.
Why are Mentoring Programs Important?
Mentorship programs for young individuals are extremely important. For youth who come from disadvantaged backgrounds, such programs ensure that they do not stray from the right path. Our mentoring programs provide them with the appropriate tools to live a life that is sustainable and righteous.
BBBSLI works towards ensuring that our mentor provides the needed support that can help one develop life skills that are needed to excel in life. We believe in the immense potential of youth and want to ensure that it is used correctly. Our Bigs are tasked with ensuring that the youth they are associated with are improving themselves. A mentor’s work is to provide the necessary help for the same.
How Do You Become a Mentor?
Becoming a mentor seems easy in theory but every mentorship program differs. Before applying to become a mentor, you should carefully understand the application process. Each mentoring program will have its own process and eligibility criteria. At BBBSLI, our process is designed especially to ensure we are providing the best mentor and mentee experience. We do a thorough background check to make sure whether the person applying can become a Big or not.
Our process involves multiple steps that are created to ensure that we are creating perfect matches. Here is our process of how to become a mentor in simple steps.
- To become a mentor, the first step is to visit our website and go here.
- Start by filling out your information on the application form.
- If you are considered for selection, our team will schedule an orientation for you which will be followed by an interview.
- We run an in-depth screening test to match you with the mentee.
- The next step is to do a match introduction activity. During this activity, the mentor and the mentee meet to understand each other. This step determines your compatibility for a fruitful match.
- Once the match is made, we supervise it initially to make sure that it is beneficial for the mentee.
- After this, mentors have to continuously provide support to their mentees. They are required to spend a few hours with mentees every month for at least one year.
Eligibility Criteria to Become a Mentor at BBBSLI
We welcome all individuals who want to become mentors at BBBSLI, however, there are certain eligibility criteria that they should fulfil. We have decided on these criteria based on multiple factors. These criteria are set to ensure that the chosen Bigs can be the best fit for the Littles.
- You should be more than 18 years of age.
- You should pass our background check.
- You should possess a valid NY driver’s license, insurance, and vehicle.
- You should commit for at least a period of one year.
Benefits of Becoming a Mentor with BBBSLI?
When you become a mentor at BBBSLI, we ensure that we focus on your growth as well. Our programs are for Littles, but they also have benefits for Bigs. Many Bigs believe that mentoring youth has been a very enriching experience for them. It has given them a new perspective on life. It is indeed true that Bigs learn as much as Littles when they participate in a youth mentoring program.
- Being a Big helps you change life and that is a big achievement in itself. This is a very fulfilling experience for many individuals.
- There is a big change in your perception of life when you become a mentor. You come face to face with many situations that require you to think differently.
- Being a mentor also helps you gain a sense of purpose. Being responsible for someone else is a responsibility and provides you with a strong purpose you can put your energy towards.
- You can drastically improve your communication skills as being a mentor requires you to clearly communicate various things to your mentees.
- Being a Big at BBBSLI is also a great networking opportunity that provides you with a chance to interact with other mentors and learn from them.
To Sum Up
Being a mentor will help you in multiple ways. There are various benefits you can derive from it as well. To become a mentor, you should always check the eligibility as well as apply in the format prescribed by the mentorship program. It is a great opportunity that will help you be more perceptive, responsible, and sensible.
At BBBSLI, we are always on the lookout for the Bigs that are dedicated and want to genuinely change a Little’s life. If you are someone who is passionate about changing lives then this is the perfect opportunity for you!
