BBBSSA mentoring is a structured, goal-directed, one-to-one relationship between an adult volunteer and a youth in need that:
- cares for children/youth between the ages of 6-18 years
- focuses on the needs of the youth in a consistent, caring and supportive relationship
- provides support based on the needs of the youth and the strengths of the adult
- promotes positive values such as self-esteem, self-respect and respect for others
- encourages youth to develop their own vision for the future and aims to assist them in maximising their potential
- distinguishes itself from other mentoring programmes in that it has rigorous standards of programme implementation and clearly defined procedures
Our current key focus areas include:
- Schools Programme
- Children's Home Programme
- Diversion Programme for youth in conflict with the law
- Diversity Programme for physically challenged children
- Programme in support of those affected and/or infected by HIV/AIDS
- Child-headed households
In co-operation with the Department of Psychology at the University of Cape Town, BBBSSA started it's own evaluation with a first study in December 2002. It was continued by a further outcome study in October 2003. The following main results are significant:
- Increase in communication skills
- Increase in academic performance
- Reduced participation in risky activities
- Reduction in the number of times being involved in a fight
Download "Evaluating a Youth Mentoring Programme in South Africa" by Johann Louw and Basil Russell, University of Cape Town.
Results of the international Big Brothers Big Sisters programme show that Littles are:
- 53% more likely to stay in school
- 32% less likely to engage in violence
- 46% less likely to use drugs
- enjoying an increase in self confidence and self esteem
- demonstrating greater ability to trust
Download "An Impact Study of Big Brothers Big Sisters" by Joseph P. Tierney, Jean Baldwin Grossman with Nancy L. Resch, Public/Private Ventures
