Dear Parent/Guardian,

The In-School Mentoring program matches children in grades 2-7 to an adult, senior (55+), or teen (student grades 10-12). We call matches Big Buddies and Little Buddies. Matches spend time together (one-to-one) for the duration of 1 hour per week, throughout the school year. Matches participate in variety of activities that are mutually agreed upon such as arts & crafts, puzzles, sports, reading, games, board games etc.

Match meetings will be held in-person on school property as long as it is safe to do so, as well virtual mentoring options are available. Mentors (volunteers) do not have contact with children outside of school hours.

Mentors in this program have been screened, interviewed, trained and have completed a criminal record check including a vulnerable sector check. This mentoring experience is meant to provide children with a positive developmental relationship that they can look forward to each week where they can challenge growth, expand possibilities, and increase confidence.

All children participating in this program must attend a Child Safety program – Strong from the Start. If your child is matched in this program, we ask that you talk to your child about the activities they participate in with their Big Buddy to ensure they feel comfortable at all times.

We invite you to complete and submit the application & consent and release form below, in order to facilitate your child being matched with an In-School Mentor for one hour each week, during the school day, and on school property, either by in person contact, virtual mentoring, or both. Once returned, a referral form filled out by a teacher, counsellor, or school liaison, will be provided to Big Brothers Big Sisters to best match your child. Should any support be required please contact the office.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Cowichan Valley is committed to providing a positive mentoring experience for your child. If you have any questions or concerns at any time, please feel free to call the office at 250-748-2447.

Thank you

  • At what phone number can we reach you during the day?
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  • This information will help our group facilitators best support your child.
  • Although you do not have to be involved in any particular way, the following options are available to you:
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  • INFORMED CONSENT

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  • MEDIA CONSENT

  • I hereby consent to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada (National Office) and its associated member Big Brothers Big Sisters of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cowichan Valley the use of any photographs, audio and/or video recordings of my child or youth as taken or produced by media personnel and/or National Office or Local Agency staff at recreational events or match outings, or otherwise authorized by the National President & CEO, local agency President/Executive Director/CEO or Board of Directors, and that this media may be used by Local Agency and/or by the National Office for purposes of promotional material including brochures, posters, newsletters, media information, advertisements, audio-visual productions and digital media, (such as the local agency websites and social media). Photographs or video productions may also be shared with community and school partners for program promotion. Note: It is the parent/guardian’s responsibility to notify the office if the status of this consent changes.