Big Brothers Big Sisters of Toronto
2345 Yonge St Suite 501 M4P 2C8 Toronto, ON, Canada

Today is International Read To Me Day! We'd like to celebrate The English Tutor, a vital partner to BBBST during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Through their online classroom, the English Tutor teachers have provided BBBST Littles with free english lessons and educational opportunities. We sat down with the English Tutor teachers, Sam and Julie, to discuss the importance of reading and the role it plays in the development of children and youth. Reading for pleasure is one of the Sea...rch Institute’s 40 developmental assets, a list of characteristics and actions that ensure children and youth will thrive later in life. The importance of a commitment to learning in young people is essential for their development. Click the link below to learn about how the English Tutor services are ensuring our Littles develop a commitment to learning and a love for reading: https://toronto.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca//the-english-tut/ #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

We spoke to one of our Bigs, Alicia Harris, earlier this March to discuss empowering young women and the importance of representation. Click the link below to read more: https://toronto.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca//a-conversation-/... #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

Today is your LAST day to purchase tickets for our 50/50 draw. Your purchase could lead to a BIG win tonight when our winner is announced at 9:00 p.m EST. Half of all proceeds go towards BBBS lifechanging mentorship programs across the country. ... Support BBBS and win BIG! Click the link below to purchase tickets: https://bigbrothersbigsistersraffle.5050central.com/?olc=tor #BBBST #BiggerTogether #BiggerTogether5050

One year ago we were together at our Norman Powell #BasketBowl event. Little did we know that this would be our last in-person event before the world shut down. Thanks to Norman Powell and UTG, over $112K was raised and went directly to providing critical programming and resources to our Littles and their families. In the weeks to come, many families entered a time of trauma and were challenged in ways that we have yet to fully understand. While so many supporters stepped u...p in incredible ways this past year, a gap in funding still exists. BBBST’s goal is to ensure our Littles are resilient and continue to thrive as we enter the next phase of the pandemic youth mental health. In order to achieve this, we need to ensure the proper resources exist for our programs. To help us fill this gap, donate today by visiting toronto.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/donate/ #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #NormanPowell

Today is International Women’s Day, a day where we raise awareness about the inequality that women still face in society and celebrate the empowerment of young women to build a better, more equal, tomorrow. At BBBST, we work directly with young women in order to help them develop their confidence, life skills, and increase their odds of a successful future through our life-changing mentorship programs and one-to-one mentorship opportunities. Our Girls Empowerment! Program is ...a gender-specific program that helps young women and those who identify develop the skills they need to thrive later in life, discuss issues specific to women, and build confidence through a supportive group dynamic. We #choosetochallenge because we believe in a better tomorrow for the young women of today. Read more about the impact our Girls Empowerment! Program has on young women by clicking the link below: https://www.linkedin.com//urn:li:activity:6774719319700979 #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #InternationalWomensDay #IWD2021

#DYK that this week is Social Work Week in Canada? At #BBBST our caseworkers and match support workers are always there to support matches and families. Their role is crucial to ensuring the success of our matches and programs. Thank you caseworkers! Pictured here is our PFPS group-based mentorship program pre-pandemic. ... #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #SocialWorkWeek

While the holidays are different for all of us this year, the joy of helping others will never change. Thank you to all of our supporters for helping us do what we do best: connecting Littles with a caring and consistent adult. 2020 has been quite the year and we have seen first-hand how critical mentorship is in empowering kids to thrive. We are incredibly grateful to all of you our families, our Littles, our Bigs, our Donors, our Partners and our Board of Directors. ... Our office will be closed tomorrow afternoon until January 2nd. We wish all of those celebrating Christmas and Kwanza this week a happy holiday, and wish you all a Happy New Year! We look forward to emerging stronger with you in 2021! #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #EmergeStronger

The countdown to Christmas, Kwanza and New Year's Eve begins this week! While the holidays may look different this year, we hope there are moments of joy, family, virtual gatherings, and at-home feasts. Please consider a donation to BBBST this holiday season and bring joy to the Littles on our waitlist by connecting them with a caring and consistent adult. ... Click here to make a donation: https://toronto.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/donate/ #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #BBBST

Young people should be defined by their potential, not their circumstances. Your donation this holiday season will help our Bigs ensure that our Littles’ potential shines bright moving into 2021! Click here to make a donation: https://toronto.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/donate/ ... #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

The holidays are in full swing at the BBBST office thanks to our incredible supporters! We are thrilled to give out gifts this year and cap 2020 off with some fun and enjoyment. Pictured here is a fraction of the generous donations we received! Thank you Amazon & Breakfast Club of Canada, Best Buy Canada, Citizen Relations, Cityline & Rogers, Mattel, and Tim Hortons & The Bowman Family.... Amazon.com, Breakfast Club of Canada / Club des petits déjeuners, Best Buy Canada, Citizen Relations, Rogers, Cityline, Mattel, Tim Hortons #biggertogether #Ignitepotential #BBBST

If you can't think of any last minute gifts for the holidays this year, considering making a donation to #BBBST in someone's name. As one of the top 10 youth charities nationwide doing the most with your donation, you can ensure that your gift will make a difference in a child's life. Have the recipient know that their gift will #IgnitePotential. ... #BiggerTogether

This Holiday season we’re thankful for our community of care! We ask for your continued support so that we can move Littles off our waitlist to meet their Big and #emergestronger in 2021. Please consider making a donation today so even more children can experience our life-changing mentorship programs! ... Let’s start 2021 off right with opportunities that allow for young people to thrive. Click here to make a donation: https://toronto.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/donate/ #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

BIGS who connect their Littles with new places and people expand their possibilities helping them realize their full potential to thrive later in life. What is something new that your BIG (or an influential person in your life) has introduced you to? #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

Happy Hanukkah to all of those celebrating this evening from the #BBBST team! #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

Staying connected at a time of physical distancing is essential to the health and wellbeing of children and youth in Toronto. Our BIGS are still here for their Littles to navigate these challenging times. How have you been staying connected while physically distancing? ... #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

#DYK that children who experience three or more positive relationships with an adult are less likely to take part in risky behaviours later in life? A BIG can help guide their Little on their journey to thrive through encouragement, support, and expressing care. #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

#DYK that strong developmental relationships that help build core life skills, like those between a BIG and a LITTLE, can mitigate the effects of toxic stress on a child? The presence of a BIG can change the trajectory of a child’s life. #BBBST #IgnitePotential #BiggerTogether

How do you know your donation this holiday season is going to organization that will use it to make a difference? #BBBST is proud to be recognized as one of Charity Intelligence Canada's Top 10 Youth Impact Charities nationwide. This list recognizes charities across the country that demonstrate the highest value created per dollar spent. Help us ignite the potential in youth across the city and consider clicking the link below to donate today: https://toronto.bigbrothersbig...sisters.ca/donate/ #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

We’re running our second 50/50 Raffle! Last month our winner took home over $178,000. This month it could be you! Click the link below to purchase a ticket today!... https://bigbrothersbigsistersraffle.5050central.com/?olc=tor Half of all proceeds will be going towards providing life-changing mentorship for children and youth all across Ontario. The more tickets you purchase, the better chance you have of winning BIG and helping us make a BIG difference in a child’s life. #BBBS0 #BBBST #BiggerTogether #BiggerTogetherRaffle #IgnitePotential #Charity #Raffle #CharityRaffle #Gambling #WinBigInOntario #BBBSO5050 #BiggerTogether5050 #WinBig5050 #Win #Prizes #WinBig

Congratulations to Brittany Gerris of Lindsay, Ontario for winning a whopping $77,195 in our 50/50 raffle! Thank you to all who purchased tickets. Together you raised $77,195 to empower children and youth to thrive across Ontario. Stay tuned for our next 50/50 draw! ... #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

As we enter our second lockdown in the City of Toronto, we recognize that it will be harder for most of our BIGS and LITTLES to stay active. What are some ways you like to exercise indoors? Comment below #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

This week is the LAST WEEK to purchase tickets for our 50/50 draw. Purchase your tickets today for your chance to win over $45,000! The pot will continue to grow until FRIDAY when we announce our BIG winner. ... Half of all proceeds are going towards empowering children and youth to thrive across Ontario. Click the link to buy your tickets: https://bigbrothersbigsistersraffle.5050central.com/?olc=tor #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #BiggerTogether5050

Did you see the three videos of our BIGS talking about their incredible experiences as volunteers for #BBBST? Click this link to hear more of what they had to say! http://ow.ly/K2Py50BHVm0... #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

Yesterday was #NationalPhilanthropyDay. We’re recognizing the incredible donors who have made a BIG impact on our Littles during the COVID-19 Pandemic. We’re so grateful to have generous partners who share our vision of building thriving communities through life-changing mentorship programs.... THANK YOU Ontario Trillium Foundation for your commitment to children and youth in Toronto! To read more about our generous partners and donors click the link below: https://lnkd.in/ejYs2Hi #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #ONTrillium

#DYK Young people who experience more strong developmental relationships in their lives are 1.5x as likely to say they see a future for themselves in the community. Mentorship makes a difference. #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

At #BBBST, we are grateful for United Way Greater Toronto’s investment in our vital mentoring programs, including the 1:1 Big Brother Big Sister Program, In-School Mentoring Program, and Pumped for Post-Secondary Program. Through our mentorship programs, our Littles are well positioned to achieve success in school and beyond. In support of the United Way’s investment in Toronto’s youth, we are proud to be running an internal United Way Workplace Giving Campaign from Oct 1-No...v 15! Thank you United Way Greater Toronto for all that you do! #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #UNIGNORABLE

When you become a BIG you are joining a community of caring adults who are investing in empowering young people to thrive. For over a century, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and our incredible team of BIGS, have been standing beside their Littles on their journey to adulthood, supporting them to reach their full potential. We are proud to have been doing that for over a century with the support of volunteers, donors, and advocates just like you! THANK YOU! #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

On #BBBSTDay we announced the incredible #BigsOfTheYear. Click the link below to learn more about them and their amazing journey empowering children and youth in our city to thrive. https://toronto.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca//bigs-of-the-year/ #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

Trusting, empowering, supportive, amazing relationships are made when BIGS and LITTLES are connected. Our BIGS are incredibly proud to be part of their Little’s success story and to see them thrive. #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #BBBST

At #BBBST we value the strength of diversity within our organization and the City of Toronto. We’re not #BiggerTogether unless we stand together, supporting the power of diversity to #IgnitePotential in all children and youth. #Diversity #Inclusivity

Happy Big Brothers Big Sisters Day! We are honoured to serve an incredible community of volunteers and families within Toronto, and so proud to see our colour shine through the city tonight thanks to the CN Tower @CNTower. Remember to post your CN Tower photos using the hashtag #BBBSTMonthToronto and #BBBSMonthToronto for an opportunity to win one of three #BBBST prize packs. #BBBSMonth #BBBSDay #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

We are thrilled that today, September 18, is recognized as Big Brothers Big Sisters Day by Mayor John Tory and Toronto City Council! Our mentorship programs help to build a thriving city. #BBBST #BBBSMonth #BBBSMonthToronto #BBBSTMonthToronto #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

Today, in Toronto, and across the country, we celebrate Big Brothers Big Sisters Day. A day where we formally acknowledge the incredible Power of Three. Families, BIGS and BBBS agencies, to unite to ensure our Littles have the resources they need to thrive, and in turn, to reach their full potential. It’s a day to celebrate the trusting relationships built through our programming, the lifelong connections made between Bigs, Littles and families, and the incredible lives ...that our Littles grow up to lead as community leaders. It’s a day to recognize the impact that a mentor can have on empowering youth and children to overcome adversity, and thrive. A day to recognize that mentoring is the antidote to trauma and the lifelong affects trauma can have on a young person if left unaddressed. It’s a day to recognize the diversity of our communities; the Littles, BIGS, and employees who reflect the fabric of our great country. Today is Big Brothers Big Sisters Day where we celebrate the potential of youth and children in the City of Toronto. #IgnitePotential #BiggerTogether #BBBSDay #BBBSTDay #BBBSMonth #BBBSMonthToronto #BBBSTMonthToronto

I feel like we’re friends for life. I see Gabriel as family. Congratulations Luis Cabrera on being named the 2019 BIG of the year! Thank you, Luis, for being a consistent caring adult in your Little’s life. You believe in him, you have a strong connection to him, and you ignite the spark in him to ensure he can thrive. ... #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #BBBSMonth #BBBSMonthToronto #BBBST #BIGSOFTHEYEAR

I really have learned a lot about myself and really grown. Congratulations John Huffman on being named the 2019 BIG Role Model of the year! Thank you, John for consistently providing encouragement during the difficult times and praise for the successes, both are critical to igniting potential. ... #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #BBBSMonth #BBBSMonthToronto #BBBST #BIGSOFTHEYEAR

Since the second I started I had no concern in my mind that I wanted it to ever end. Congratulations Sydney Hannah on being named the 2019 BIG Coach of the year! Thank you, Sydney, for always being a positive role model and supporting your Little in building habits that lead to an active, healthy lifestyle. ... #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #BBBSMonth #BBBSMonthToronto #BBBST #BIGSOFTHEYEAR

Having a knowledgeable mentor who can establish a relationship of trust with a young person through long term frequent contact is key to success and it’s as good for the Big as it is for the Little #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #BBBST #BBBSMonth #BBBSMonthToronto

Educational success can be the ticket to a brighter future, and today we would like to acknowledge Scotiabank for their investment in BBBST, and our education programs. Through our in-school mentoring, and Pumped for Post-Secondary programs, the pursuit of higher education isn’t just a dream, it becomes a reality for our Littles, Spark Ignited, Goal accomplished. This week as we celebrate the incredible work of our BIGS, who serve as a support to the families, and our Littl...es, once again, Scotiabank is by our side, investing in our agency efforts to ensure our BIGS are trained to stand in front of our Littles when they need protection, beside them as they walk their life journey, and behind them when they need a push to take the leap into independence. Today we celebrate you SCOTIABANK. #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #BBBST #BBBSMonth #BBBSMonthToronto

There’s a huge trust factor that’s grown between us. Theres a huge understanding that we can talk about anything...that feels good that you can make that difference. Congratulations Chris Roach on being named the 2019 BIG Motivator of the year! Thank you, Chris, for always providing constant support and encouragement to your Little.... #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #BBBSMonth #BBBSMonthToronto #BBBST #BIGSOFTHEYEAR

Thinking I can shed some light onto these girls is nothing in comparison to the confidence and sincerity that they show me. Congratulations Victoria Tartaglia on being named one of the 2019 BIG Advocate’s of the year! Thank you, Victoria, for consistently providing opportunities for young women to excel and build confidence. ... #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #BBBSMonth #BBBSMonthToronto #BBBST #BIGSOFTHEYEAR

"It was the highlight of my week." Congratulations Enrick Fontaine on being named one of the 2019 BIG Advocate’s of the year! Thank you Enrick for always promoting, and defending your Little’s rights, needs and interests. ... Stay tuned for additional #BIGSOFTHEYEAR to be announced this week. #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #BBBSMonth #BBBSMonthToronto #BBBST

The absolutely awesome, ridiculously cool, amazingly fantastic, life-changing #BBBST journey... And I bet you think we mean for the Littles? Consider joining #BBBST as a BIG. ... #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential #BBBSMonth #BBBSMonthToronto

We are THRILLED to celebrate Big Brothers Big Sisters Day by lighting the city teal this Friday with the @cntower! Post your photos of the CN Tower shining teal using the hashtag #BBBSTMonthToronto, and you will be entered to win one of three prize packs from BBBST. #BBBSMonth o #BBBSDay #BBBST #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential

We wish all of our LITTLES and families a happy and safe start to the new school year this week! #BBBST #BBBSmonth #IgnitePotential #BBBSmonthToronto #BiggerTogether

Education opens up opportunities for children and youth in the city of Toronto. We’re proud of the 213 Littles who graduated high school last year. #BiggerTogether #IgnitePotential