Our Mentoring In School program is perfect for volunteers with a flexible schedule! And we are also please to see that many employers are supportive of giving some granted time for employees who want to volunteer. Tara is an InSchool Big who was looking for a volunteer opportunity that would allow her to have a direct impact with someone in her own community. Read on to find out what Tara and her Little Sister, Amanda, had to say about the program.

"Our names are Tara and Amanda and we have been part of the In School Mentoring Program since October 2003. We met when Amanda was just 8 years old and in grade 3 at Robert E. Wilson Public School. Today, nearly 6 years later, Amanda is 14 years old and we plan on continuing with the program even when she starts high school next September.

We enjoying being part this Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa (BBBSO) program because we probably would have never met otherwise. Despite our age difference, we both enjoy similar hobbies like reading, playing board games, crafts and baking -- all things we have been able to do during our regular school lunch hour meetings.
We think everyone could benefit from being part of the In School Mentoring Program so join today...you never know who will make a difference in your life!"

When asked to describe the experience, Tara said: "Having Amanda in my life means the world to me because she is a very special girl and I think she is growing up to be a remarkable young woman. I could be having the worst day on the planet and once I spent time with Amanda, I instantly felt better and felt like I'd done something of value. You have nothing to lose by trying and you never know what kind of special person you might meet that you might have otherwise never crossed paths with."

From Amanda's perspective, having Tara as her mentor also means the world because she brings lots of joy to her life.

If you think Mentoring InSchool is right for you, complete an application form now!

There is no better time to make a BIG difference in your community!