Big Brothers Big Sisters Minnesota (BBBS) continues to emphasize child safety while expanding its mentorship program, serving more than 2,000 youth across the region. With a structured safety framework and increased community outreach, the organization is reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding children and fostering meaningful mentor relationships.
Child safety protocols
Ensuring the well-being of participants remains a cornerstone of BBBS’s mission. The organization provides training for Littles (ages 8-13), Bigs (mentors 18 and older), and parents to recognize and report harm.
“Our goal is to ensure every child feels safe and empowered to speak up if something is wrong,” said Princess Awa-Ada Kisob, BBBS Twin Cities’ vice president of programs. “This program is about more than just mentorship — it’s about creating a foundation of trust and protection.”
In 2023, the national BBBS network mandated Your Child’s Personal Safety Training, standardizing safety education across all chapters. In 2024, BBBS Minnesota reported that fewer than 4% of participants disclosed harm, with only one case involving allegations of sexual abuse — none of which were linked to mentors.
Instead, reports primarily reflected concerns about home or school environments. BBBS employs structured check-ins, including monthly meetings during the first year and quarterly follow-ups, to encourage disclosures and provide support.
Incident response
BBBS adheres to a Critical Incident Process, ensuring all concerns raised by Littles, Bigs, or parents are documented and investigated. If reports involve suspected abuse or neglect, BBBS follows mandatory reporting laws, escalating cases to law enforcement or child protective services as required. Staff and volunteers receive ongoing education in identifying and reporting abuse.
“Transparency and accountability are key,” Kisob said. “We take every report seriously and ensure that all staff, mentors and parents understand their role in keeping children safe.”
Comprehensive safety training
BBBS integrates safety discussions throughout its mentorship process. Littles engage in personalized safety sessions during enrollment, where they establish boundaries and identify five trusted adults. Parents receive follow-up resources to reinforce these lessons at home.
“We equip youth with the tools they need to recognize red flags and seek help,” Kisob explained. “It’s not just about intervention; it’s about prevention.”
Mentors undergo extensive training before being matched, covering youth development, mandated reporting, and safe mentorship practices. Monthly safety topics — ranging from recognizing grooming behaviors to navigating online interactions — further equip participants with essential knowledge. The organization collaborates with the University of Minnesota and other partners to enhance training initiatives.
Mentorship’s long-term impact
Kisob attributes her own success to mentorship. “I owe much of my journey to mentorship,” she said. “It propelled me toward higher education and ignited my passion for community service.”
Studies reinforce the lasting benefits of mentorship. Research shows that youth with mentors are 55% more likely to enroll in college and 46% less likely to use illegal drugs. BBBS Twin Cities reports similar trends, with many Littles forming lasting bonds with their mentors.
“Having a mentor isn’t just about academics — it’s about knowing someone believes in you,” Kisob said. “That belief can be life-changing.”
Addressing the mentor shortage
Despite its success, BBBS Minnesota faces a mentor shortage, with more than 1,000 Minnesota youth on waitlists, some for over a year. Research from Harvard and the U.S. Department of Treasury indicates that mentorship reduces socioeconomic disparities and enhances educational and career outcomes.
One example is Little Brother Nate, who was matched with his mentor, Todd, at age 12. Now in his 20s, Nate is pursuing higher education and recently joined the inaugural National Youth Voice Committee for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.
“Big Brothers Big Sisters has played an amazing role in my life,” Nate said. “Even as a young adult, my mentor Todd and the program continue to be instrumental in my journey.”
Beyond benefiting youth, mentorship strengthens families and communities. Parents frequently express the transformative impact of seeing their children thrive with a mentor’s support.
“Even if a parent doesn’t move forward with BBBS, they still walk away with critical child safety knowledge,” Kisob added. “That’s how we make an impact — through education, awareness, and community involvement.”
For more information on becoming a mentor, visit www.bigstwincities.org.
Kiara Williams welcomes reader responses at kwilliams@spokesman-recorder.com