MENTORING
PROGRAMS
We’re innovating and adapting our programs to expand our reach to more youth and recruit more mentors. We’re investing in new technology to support these initiatives and make mentoring more accessible.
Studies show that children who have role models are more likely to improve in school and in their relationships with family and friends, and less likely to skip school or use illegal drugs or alcohol. Students who are successful in school are less likely to drop out, abuse drugs, or commit crimes.
COMMUNITY-BASED
This program serves youth (our Littles), age 6 to young adulthood, in one-to-one mentoring relationships with caring adult mentors (our Bigs). Bigs and Littles meet twice a month for two to four hours enjoying low to no-cost activities. BBBS of Acadiana provides every match with a professional Mentoring Specialist to support the relationship and offer guidance during its entirety. The Big, Little, and parent/guardian make a minimum of a one-year commitment to the mentoring relationship.
SITE-BASED
This program brings one-to-one mentoring to designated locations, fostering strong relationships and providing vital support to young people. Participants meet for an hour each week, with volunteers visiting their Little at the same time each week during school or club hours.
Activities include games, reading together, having lunch, working on academics, or simply spending time talking. The Big, Little, and parent/guardian make a minimum of a one-year commitment to the mentoring relationship.
We offer several site-based mentoring programs throughout Acadiana:
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School-Based Mentoring
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Club-Based Mentoring (at a local Boys and Girls Club)
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United Way Readers
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High School Bigs Mentoring
Within our High School Bigs program, elementary school students (Littles) build relationships with high school students (Bigs) through one-to-one interactions and occasional group activities. The Littles gain confidence, while the Bigs develop leadership skills. Young mentors learn that they can positively impact a young person's life and make a meaningful difference in their community.
STEM MENTORING
The STEM Mentoring Program aims to connect underserved youth with STEM professionals through one-to-one and group mentoring relationships. This initiative equips young people with essential career-ready skills, provides real-world learning experiences, and inspires them to pursue education and careers in STEM fields. The program, facilitated by CGI staff, spans a six month cohort, with monthly sessions held on-site, each lasting two hours.
