Become a Mentor

Tikkun olam starts with you.

There are many ways to give back, but becoming a Big is one of the most personal. By spending time with a Jewish child, you offer guidance, encouragement, and belonging. In turn, you’ll gain perspective, joy, and a connection that could last a lifetime.

A Commitment You Can Keep

There’s no script and no pressure to be perfect. You’re simply showing up, being consistent, and building a relationship over time.

Commitment

6-month minimum

A consistent relationship takes time. We ask for a minimum commitment so trust can grow.

Connection

2 outings per month

Bigs spend 2-3 hours every other week—grabbing food, hanging out, or doing something simple together.

Support

Ongoing guidance

You’re not doing this alone. A dedicated match specialist supports you the entire time.

How to become a Big.

01

Join one of our 30-minute, virtual Info Sessions

The first step is to join one of our 30-minute Info Sessions on Zoom. This is the best way to get an overview of our one-to-one mentoring program, including information about eligibility, the youth we serve, the commitment and expectations, and the training and support we offer.

02

Application and Interview

Complete the online application and meet with one of our enrollment staff. We want to get to know you, along with your interests and preferences, so we can find just the right match.

03

Background check

We run a standard background check: fingerprints, driving record, references, and your public profile.

04

Pre-Match Training

Pre-Match Training on Zoom with other prospective Bigs prepares you for your mentoring role, while introducing you to our community and the ongoing supports we offer. Mandated Reporter Training (state requirement) provides you with valuable information that helps us collectively keep kids safe.

05

Match

We find the “Little” who is the best fit and make the introduction – then it’s a MATCH! It’s also a partnership – we support you every step of the way.

Minimum Age: 21 years old

Info Session & Application

Interview & Background Check

Pre-Match Training

Match length: While we ask for a 6-month commitment, many matches last for years!

The impact is real.

Spending a few hours a month with a young person might not seem like much—but over time, it can change the trajectory of their life. Every consistent, caring adult gives them confidence, stability, and one more person they can count on.

20%

more likely to attend college

41%

less substance abuse

15%

higher earnings by age 25

People just like you are already doing this.

We all look forward to watching this bond grow and believe that Garett will be in Zev’s life for years to come. We can’t thank JBBBSLA enough for giving our son something so special!

Parents to Little Brother

I serve because I believe deeply in this mission. I stay because I see the impact—firsthand. And I am fully committed—to Sarah, to our Littles, and to the future we are building together.

Big Sister and JBBBSLA Board Member

Our wonderful Bigs have been an extra adult in my children’s lives — positive role models, who provide guidance, encouragement, and consistent support.

Parent of 3 Littles

When I joined JBBBS, I had no idea how rewarding this experience would be--and that it would be one of the best decisions in my entire life.

Big Sister

JBBBS gives me an opportunity to build a relationship with my Big that will last a lifetime. We participate in Big and Little outings organized through them, and I have met other Littles at these outings. I am lucky to be a part of JBBBS!

Little Sister

I love my experience every year going to Camp Bob Waldorf. I have a great time there and I’m sure others do too. It makes me smile and learn new things and get better at things too.

Little and Camper

What You'll Actually Do

What being a Big looks like.

Match outings are easy to plan and fit into your routine.

Take a hike or ride bikes
Play mini-golf
Do a craft project or visit a museum
Grab ice cream and play at the park
Talk about school, life, or whatever is on their mind

Over time, regular hangouts lead to a strong, meaningful relationship.

Questions? We've got answers.

How much time is this really?

Matches meet twice a month for 2-3 hours per outing. Life happens, so it’s not precise! The commitment is about consistency and being dependable.

What about the background check?

Youth safety is our top priority. We run a standard criminal background check on all volunteers that includes driving record, fingerprints, references and a review of your public profile.

What kinds of activities do Bigs do with Littles?

Whatever you both enjoy. It could be sports, museums, cooking, hiking or biking, arts and crafts, grabbing a meal, or just hanging out. You get to choose activities based on shared interests.

Do I need to be the same religion or cultural background as my Little?

All participants must identify as Jewish. We serve all denominations and observance levels. We match based on compatibility of interests, strengths, needs and personalities. Finding just the right fit is our specialty!

How long do matches last?

Although the minimum commitment is 6 months, our average match length is between 3 and 4 years. The goal is a relationship that builds over time and has a positive impact. Our mentoring staff supports you and the relationship every step of the way.

What support do you provide to Bigs?

In addition to your initial pre-match training, ongoing training resources are available. Your dedicated match support specialist checks in regularly, answering questions and adding value to your match. We also host agency-sponsored events throughout the year and facilitate group outings with other matches.

Can my partner/friend and I volunteer together?

Matches are always one-to-one relationships. Couples or friends may apply to become Bigs at the same time, each matched with their own Little.