KAITLIN: COMMUNITY-BASED MENTOR
What inspired you to become a volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Windsor Essex?
My dad was a big brother when he was in his 20s. He always talked about how wonderful of a program BBBS is and how fulfilling being a mentor was, so I was inspired early on to being a big sister.
What are some of your favourite activities to do with your Mentee/Little?
Some of my favourite activities I have done with Braelyn include going apple picking, paddle boarding, playing boardgames, doing crafts together (like making slime), and watching her skate circles around me on the ice rink.
What is one memory with your Mentee/Little that still makes you smile?
A memory with my little that makes me smile is when she asked if she could do my makeup (and then my fiancé’s makeup) and she painted very colourful designs on both our faces.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about becoming a mentor with BBBSWE?
Advice I would give to someone who is thinking about becoming a mentor is that it is a lot of fun and very fulfilling. I love knowing that I make a difference in Braelyn’s life. We do a lot of fun activities together, but an even bigger part of being a big brother or sister is just being there for them and listening to them if they want to talk. It is a decent time commitment, so make sure that you are able to give the time your little deserves before applying.
