Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh

5989 Centre Avenue, Suite 1 / Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Website: www.bbbspgh.org / ​Phone: 412-363-6100 / ​Email: hsherer@bbbspgh.org

For over 35 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh has provided children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that changed their lives fo the better, forever.  Each child ("Little") is intentionally paired with a pre-screened and trained volunteer mentor ("Big") who shares similar interests.  Through positive relationship development and role modeling, each mentor empowers a child to reach their fullest potential in spite of the challenges and obstacles they face.  Professional case managers provide ongoing guidance and support to every relationship to help ensure child safety, positive relationship development and strong youth outcomes.

Adam and Mason (pictured to the left) were matched for three years at Carmichaels Elementary School.  "He helped me improve my grades, helped me with friend issues and he always helped me to have a good day," siad Mason.  From dressing up as Santa Claus to teaching his Little Brother something new, Adam was always there for Mason.  It was an emotionals good-bye as they parted ways at their year-end celebration.  Mason had huge tears in his eyes and gave Adam a big hug - his way of saying "Thank you" to his Big Brother.

The School-Based Mentoring Program of Big Brothers Big Sisters works directly with Carmichaels and Jefferson-Morgan school districts.  Teachers and guidance counselors refer children that they feel need additional support and guidance in their lives.  These elementary-aged children "Littles", are then matched with pre-screened and trained high school age students, "Bigs", within their same school district.  Throughout the year, the two spend approximately one hour together twice a month at school in a group setting.  They talk, get to know one another, set goals, do homework and participate in structured activities provided by the BBBSPGH coodinator.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh is always looking for Community and School Based Volunteers.  Community volunteers investment is only three to five hours, twice a month with a 12 month commitment.  Site based mentors are 10 -12 grade students at Carmichaels and Jefferson-Morgan High Schools. Have a please while changing the life of a child.  We need you!

For more information, please contact Pam Slomiany at 724-228-9191 or pslomiany@bbbspgh.org.