Become a Mentor: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah

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During the COVID 19 pandemic crisis, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah are still taking volunteers and that they can enroll 100% virtually and be matched and start mentoring now virtually as well. We are allowing some one on one personal contacts/visits with proper social distancing. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah (BBBSU) has served Utah for more than 40 years, and it is because of our volunteers we were able to serve more than 1,300 matches in 2017. BBBSU has three main programs for mentors to consider:
The School-based program (for volunteers high school freshman and older), the Community-based program (for volunteers ages 18 and older), and Mentor 2.0 program (for volunteers 21 and older with a 2 or 4-year degree). Please note that some programs are not available to all areas.

Mentors in our community-based program meet 2-4 times per month for 6-19 hours doing activities such as going to the park, library, a movie, hiking, learning new skills and other mutually agreed on pursuits.

In our school-based program, Mentors and youth meet after school at a designated time and place for 1-1.5 hours weekly.

In the Mentor 2.0 program, Mentors and high school students communicate through weekly emails discussing preparation for college and career goals. Matches meet in-person at a scheduled monthly 2 hour event. Mentors must have a college degree and/or other form of accreditation.

This one-to-one attention gives a child much-needed confidence and the ability to make better decisions. Volunteers are positive role models that provide a child with encouragement and support by being a trusted, caring and dependable adult friend.

Mentors in the Community-based program must be 18 or older, ideally have experience with mentoring youth between the ages of 6-17, have a valid drivers license, current auto insurance, pass a background check, participate in an interview and complete our volunteer training.


Seeking Female Volunteers: Yes

Seeking Male Volunteers: Yes

Minimum Match Commitment (in months): 12 months or longer

Type of Mentoring: One-to-One

Youth Population Served: Academically At-Risk, Adjudicated/court involved, First-Generation College, Foster, Residential or Kinship Care, Gang At-Risk, Gang involved, General Youth Population, Gifted/Talented/Academic Achiever, Incarcerated Parent, LGBTQ Youth, Low Income, Mental Health Issues, Parent Involved in Military, Recent Immigrant/Refugee, School Drop-Out, Single-Parent Household, Special Education, Youth with Disabilities

Mentoring Program Goals: Career Exploration, Education/Academic Support, Friendship/Socialization, Healthy Behaviors

Ages of Youth Served: 7 and under, 8-10, 11-14, 15-18