50 Years of Mentorship

50 Years of Changing Lives: BBBS West Island Celebrates Its Volunteer Heroes

Call to Action: 50 Mentors for 50 Years

Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) West Island is celebrating a major milestone — 50 years of transforming young lives through mentorship. Since 1975, BBBSWI has connected youth facing adversity with caring mentors, helping them build confidence, resilience, and hope for the future.

“As we kick off our 50th anniversary during National Volunteer Week, we’re honouring the thousands of mentors who’ve made a difference,” said Valentino Pietrantonio, Executive Director of BBBS West Island. “Now, we’re challenging our community to step up:
50 mentors for 50 years.”

The need is real. While 150 youth are currently matched with mentors, more than 50 kids and teens — ages 6 to 21 — are still waiting. That’s where the community comes in.

We Want You – Become a Mentor!

Mentorship changes lives. Just ask Hailie Szabo, a former Little Sister: “Being matched with Amanda for 7 years changed my life. She didn’t just show up — she showed me what was possible. Now I’m in university and working full-time, just like she did.” Szabo adds: “To every mentor out there — thank you. And to anyone thinking about stepping up, now’s the time. One hour a week can change a life.”

Join the Challenge. Be the Change.

Help us shape the next generation in the West Island. Learn how to become a mentor at:
👉 https://westisland.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/volunteer