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

Most Bigs spend a couple 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 digital application and meet with one of our enrolment staff. We want to get to know you, along with your interests and preferences, so we can find just the right “Little” for your match.

03

Background check

We run a standard background check, request references and fingerprints.

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.

Age requirement: Must be 21+

Background check

Training: 4 hours, one-time session. Dates available monthly.

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. A consistent, caring adult gives them confidence, stability, and someone 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.

Most meetups are easy to plan and fit into your routine.

Grab coffee and help with homework.
Shoot hoops at the park.
Walk around a museum.
Talk about school, life, whatever’s on their mind.

Over time, those regular hangouts turn into a strong, meaningful relationship.

Questions? We've got answers.

How much time is this really?

About 2 hours a week. Some Bigs do a bit more, some do exactly 2. The commitment is consistency, not quantity. Show up the same day/time each week so your Little knows what to expect.

What about the background check?

We run a standard background check on all volunteers. It takes 1–2 weeks. We’re keeping young people safe; you should expect that.

What kinds of activities do Bigs do with Littles?

Whatever you both enjoy. Homework help, sports, movies, museums, cooking, just hanging out. You choose activities based on shared interests. No structured curriculum.

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

No. We match based on interests, schedules, and what the young person needs. Some Bigs share background with their Littles; many don’t.

How long do matches last?

Most of our matches go 3+ years. Some longer. The goal is a lasting relationship. Your match coordinator supports the relationship every step.

What support do you provide to Bigs?

You get a dedicated match coordinator who checks in regularly. Group outings with other Bigs, training resources, and 24/7 support if you have questions or need advice.

Can my partner/friend and I volunteer together?

You each match with a young person individually. Some couples become Bigs together (matching with two different Littles), but you’re each in a one-to-one relationship.