As a community, St. Albert thrives when we collectively invest in our youth—nurturing their potential, fostering their resilience, and encouraging their ambitions. Few organizations embody this spirit of mentorship and support as wholeheartedly as Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of St. Albert. By pairing at-risk children and teens with caring, stable adults, BBBS changes lives, influences futures, and strengthens our social fabric in meaningful and lasting ways.
Mentorship That Transforms Lives
The heart of BBBS lies in its unique approach to one-on-one mentorship. Children enrolled in the program are matched with volunteers who commit to spending time with them regularly—often just a few hours per month—engaging in activities that can be as simple as a walk in Lions Park or chatting over hot chocolate at a local café. This quality time provides a supportive presence in a young person’s life, helping them develop confidence, self-esteem, and the foundational life skills necessary to grow into healthy, engaged adults.
A Legacy of Community Investment
For decades, BBBS has been quietly and steadily changing the trajectories of young lives in St. Albert. Successful matches often last years, and the ripple effects extend well beyond the individuals directly involved. Mentors and mentees engage with local events, clubs, and activities, increasing community connectedness and fostering intergenerational understanding. These relationships often help young people discover new interests, set goals, and recognize their own potential—benefits that last long after the mentorship ends.
An Approach That Works
Research consistently shows that children with mentors are less likely to engage in risky behavior and more likely to pursue post-secondary education. They often perform better academically, exhibit improved social skills, and develop more stable friendships. By investing in just one child’s future, mentors help uplift the entire community, shaping tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and responsible citizens.
Supported by a Network of Caring Partners
St. Albert’s tapestry of nonprofits and service clubs, including the Rotary Club—of which I, John Carle, am a proud member—often works in collaboration with organizations like BBBS. Through fundraising events, awareness campaigns, and community initiatives, these networks ensure that the BBBS mission is well-resourced and remains on the community’s radar. This collaborative atmosphere makes it possible for every child in need of guidance to find a Big Brother or Big Sister who’s ready to invest time, empathy, and encouragement.
How You Can Get Involved
Becoming a mentor with BBBS of St. Albert is a powerful way to give back to your community. If volunteering isn’t an option, consider contributing financially to help sustain their programs or spread the word within your social circles. Every hour donated, every dollar contributed, and every voice raised in support ensures that BBBS continues to reach more children, deepening the positive impact on St. Albert’s future.
Making a difference, one child at a time—this is the legacy of Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Albert. It’s a testament to what can happen when communities choose to believe in their youngest members and invest in their success, showing them that there’s a brighter path ahead and caring adults to help them walk it.
