Eligibility Criteria

When applying for our programs, a Little Brother or Little Sister must be between the ages of six and 16 years. The friendship with a Big Brother and Big Sister can be supported by the agency through to 18 years of age.

Our staff will work with you and your child to review your situation and determine how a Big Brother or Big Sister would be of benefit. Factors that would be considered regarding your child’s needs include:

  • Parent or guardian support
  • Adult involvement other than the parent(s) or guardian(s)
  • Peer relationships
  • School performance
  • Involvement in community activity
  • Living environment
  • Ability to form and maintain a healthy, safe relationship
  • Ability to perform independent self-care
  • Boys who have access to regular male companionship and girls who have access to regular female companionship may still qualify for our programs.

Who is a Big Brother or Big Sister?

  • They are kind, caring individuals, 18 years of age or older, who want to make a difference in the life of a child.
  • They make a minimum commitment of six months to one year depending on the program.
  • The parent/guardian has final approval in the selection of a Big Brother or Big Sister for his/her child.

Your Child's Safety

Your child’s safety is our highest priority. Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Toronto are leaders in interviewing and matching children with youth and adult volunteers. We have guidelines and policies that all Little Brothers and Little Sisters and their parents or guardians should be aware of. During the application process, we will explain the safety guidelines and procedures related to your child's program.

To learn more about child safety, visit the Children's Safety Association of Canada http://www.safekid.org.

To learn more about the laws and policies relating to children’s safety, visit www.torontopolice.on.ca.

Little Sisters Wanted!

Do you know a young girl between the ages of 6 and 12 years old who lives in the downtown area and could benefit from a caring female volunteer mentor?

Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Toronto is looking for young girls to be involved in our Big Sister mentoring program!

Having a mentor helps girls build confidence, enhance positive peer relationships and increase self-esteem.

By playing sports, learning a craft of just having fun, a volunteer mentor can make a lasting difference in the life of a girl.

Our Big Sister mentoring program - like all of our programs - is a free resource for families.

In just a short time girls can be matched with a positive role model in their community!

Interested in finding a Big Sister for your child?

Click here to download an inquiry form. 
Fill out all areas, print then fax or mail to the BBBST office.


For more information contact Coordinator, Enrollment and Client Relations, Shrinder Bal

Email: bbbst.com
Phone: (416) 925-8981 Ext. 4136
Fax: (416) 925-4671

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