Big Brothers Big Sisters Awarded Game-Changer Grant to Expand In-school Mentorship Programs
At the For Good Forever Showcase last night, the Fredericton Community Foundation awarded this year’s Game-Changer Grant to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Fredericton and Oromocto (BBBSFO). The $30,000 grant, our largest annual funding award, will help BBBSFO launch its New Mentoring Coordinator and Expansion of In-school Mentoring Program, a transformative project designed to grow its reach from 100 to 300 mentees over the next five years. This significant expansion will ensure more children in our community benefit from the life-changing mentorship they need, faster than ever before.
About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Fredericton & Oromocto
For over 100 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has been supporting youth through mentorship, helping them navigate challenges and build brighter futures. Locally, BBBSFO is a vital resource, providing children with inclusive spaces and caring mentors who foster confidence, resilience, and life skills.
With this grant, BBBSFO will hire a dedicated Mentoring Coordinator, enabling them to serve more schools and expand their program to include high school students. This initiative will allow the organization to significantly reduce wait times, meet the growing demand for mentorship, and triple its capacity to serve youth, making it a true game-changer for the greater Fredericton region.
"Tonight's theme, "The Power of Us," truly resonates with the work that our agency does. We believe in the old adage that it takes a village to raise a child, and this grant is a perfect example of what can be achieved when we all come together as a community."
said John Foley, Executive Director of BBBSFO.
Why This Initiative Matters
Research shows that 75% of mental health challenges emerge before age 25, making early support essential. BBBSFO’s mentorship programs provide protective factors like social connection, emotional support, and nurturing environments—proven to improve youth outcomes.
Mentored youth are more likely to volunteer, donate, and build strong relationships as adults, multiplying the impact of each donation. Every dollar invested in mentorship yields up to $23 in social value, making this initiative not just transformative for children, but for the entire community.
Our Thanks to You
This milestone is a testament to the generosity of our donors and the dedication of our board and grant committee. Together, we’re creating meaningful change and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.