• 46% less likely to start taking illegal drugs
• 27% less likely to start drinking alcohol
• 32% less likely to hit somebody
• 52% less likely to skip a day of school and 37% less likely to skip a single class 
• 64% developed more positive attitudes towards school
• 58% achieved higher grades
• 60% improved their relationships with adults, 56% with their peers
• 55% were better able to express their feelings
• 60% developed higher levels of self confidence
• 62% were more likely to trust their teachers Sources: Making A Difference: An Impact Study of Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Public Private Ventures, USA, (1994) and Big Brothers Big Sisters School- Based Mentoring: An Evaluation Summary of Five Pilot Programs 
- Little Brothers and Sisters see their parent in a more favorable light at the end of the relationship and demonstrate a stronger sense of being accepted for who they are.
- Little Brothers and Sisters have a decrease of anger/frustration and worry.
- Little Brothers and Sisters are less often sad/unhappy now, less fearful or anxious, more persevering and less likely to be restless or hyperactive or to cry excessively.
- Little Brothers and Sisters are more likely to step in and stop an argument.
- Little Brothers and Sisters are less likely to get into fights at the close of the relationship than they were before being involved in the Program.
- Little Brothers and Sisters are less likely to lose their temper when they get angry.
- Little Brothers and Sisters are more likely to handle problems on their own
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 casework 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.
They are kind, caring individuals, 18 years of age or older, who want to spend time with a boy or a girl. 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 son/daughter.
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Your child’s and adolescence'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, a social worker will explain the safety guidelines and procedures related to the program that your child will be participating in. For an introduction to safety for your child, visit the Children's Safety Association of Canada http://www.safekid.org/ For more details about laws and policies relating to children’s safety, visit www.torontopolice.on.ca
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