True stories, Real people: Illustrated animations to ensure confidentiality.
In a world that’s constantly moving, it’s easy to feel like we don’t have enough time for anything, let alone one more commitment. But every time I walk into the school to meet with my mentee, I’m reminded why saying “yes” to volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada was one of the best decisions I ever made.
Three years ago, I was matched with a bright, funny, and resilient young boy who was then in grade 5. Today, he’s in grade 7, and every week, we continue to carve out one special hour together through the school-based program here in Barrie, Ontario. That one hour is sacred — it’s his hour. No phone, no schedule, no distractions. Just a kid and an adult who genuinely cares, playing games, drawing cartoons, kicking a soccer ball, battling it out in video games, or simply talking about life, hobbies, dreams, and sometimes the tougher stuff too.
What might look simple on the surface — two people hanging out — is actually something much deeper. It’s showing up. It’s consistency. It’s sending the message, without ever needing to say it out loud, that you matter.
The young person I mentor comes from a tough family situation at times. And while I’m not there to fix it or take it away, I am there to offer something powerful: presence, encouragement, laughter, and a reminder that he’s seen and valued just as he is. What I didn’t expect when I first signed up, however, was how much I would gain from our time together. His strength, his creativity, his humour — they inspire me every single week and fill me with a sense of joy.
Being a mentor isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present. It’s about trading one hour of your busy schedule for the chance to change two lives at once — his and mine. Every visit reminds me of the impact a single, genuine connection can have.
Big Brothers Big Sisters creates these opportunities for kids to feel supported, and for adults to remember how much we all need community, compassion, and fun. I am deeply proud to be a part of this incredible organization.
If you’ve ever wondered whether you have enough to give, trust me: you do. Sometimes, giving your time—even just an hour a week—can be the most valuable, transformative thing you offer.
It has been my utmost pleasure and honour to walk this journey with my mentee, and I can say with certainty: mentoring isn’t just something I do — it’s become a part of who I am.