January is National Mentoring Month

National Mentoring Month—developed by MENTOR in 2002—is a nationwide celebration of the life-changing power of mentorship. Each January, we shine a spotlight on the critical role mentors play in shaping brighter futures and building stronger communities. Today, one in three kids in America are growing up without a sustained, positive adult mentor in their lives, and here in Middle Tennessee, the need is urgent—with more than 100 young people on Big Brothers Big Sisters of Middle Tennessee’s waitlist for a mentor.

The good news? You can be the difference! At BBBSMT, we’re redefining what it means to mentor, showing how small, everyday moments can make a big impact. Whether it’s sharing a laugh, exploring a new hobby, or simply showing up, mentorship is more achievable—and more needed—than ever. Join the movement this January and discover how you can empower the next generation by becoming a mentor, supporting our programs, or spreading the word. Together, we can close the gap and create brighter futures for the kids who need us most!

Interested, but Want to know more?

Sign up for our Virtual Info Session on January 28th at 6pm and learn all about our different program options and other opportunities for partnership with BBBS of Middle TN.

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Ready to apply?

Complete the inquiry form to start the process of becoming a Big. Once you complete the form, a staff member will reach out to review the requirements and help you determine which program might be the best fit before you attend an orientation.

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five different ways for you to mentor

  • Community-Based – Bigs and Littles meet consistently on their own and explore different activities in the community over the course of a year. The Big, Little and Guardian work together to find times for the match to meet. This program offers flexibility and access to exclusive BBBS discounts and community partners. 
  • Site-Based – Bigs and Littles meet weekly during the school year at a designated place. This program primarily serves Elementary and Middle School aged youth in Middle TN, and focuses on building social skills and working toward academic goals. 
  • Sports Buddies – This program focuses on developing one-to-one mentoring relationships through participatory and spectator sporting events on Saturdays. Our staff plans a variety of activities for Bigs and Littles to engage in to help build positive and healthy relationships. Matches meet twice a month for at least 6 months, with activities ranging from attending local sporting events to skills clinics or trying new activities like rock climbing. 
  • E-Mentoring – E-Mentoring is a blended online and in-person (3 required in-person visits per school year) mentoring option that gives Bigs the flexibility to mentor on their own time and build a connection with a teenager using secured technology as a shared space. This program strives to help high school students develop personal, academic and career skills. This program takes place only during the academic year and seeks to pair a Junior or Senior with a mentor until they graduate. 
  • College Advancement Program – This program offers comprehensive support and fosters the growth of college students throughout their freshman and sophomore years. Mentors commit to weekly communication during the school year with mentees through a secure app and then twice per semester in-person meetings. Currently supporting Tennessee State University and Nashville State Community College Students. 

National Mentoring Month Events

Help us cheer on the Bruins while they face off against Southern Illinois. Come find our table to learn about our mentoring opportunities or how we partner with Belmont for our Bigs at Belmont Club. Purchase Tickets here!

We are joining the women of Heels & Handshakes for their monthly event hosted at Chiefs from 4:00-6:00pm. We are excited to be present in a room full of dynamic women and get to listen to Amy Brodrick as she covers Navigating Through Negotiation. We will dive into the art and science of negotiation, exploring strategies to overcome gender biases, build confidence, and create win-win outcomes in professional and personal settings. Tickets are open to the public two weeks in advance, snag yours here! Use Code “BBS10” for $10 off

Did you know BBBS of Middle TN has a mentoring program that focuses on building relationships while playing and watching all different types of sports and activities? Come find us at the Nashville Predators game to learn more about how you can join Sports Buddies or one of our other mentoring programs!

We are ringing in the year with the TN Pride Chamber as they bring together professionals from across Tennessee for meaningful connections and opportunities to grow each others business and sense of community.

Higginbotham Insurance has selected BBBS of Middle TN as the Non-profit Spotlight for January’s CityCURRENT Signature Breakfast. Come converse over coffee with us and other community leaders before hearing from Tom Koulopoulos, a leading digital futurist. Click here to register. 
Swing by the Tennessee State Capitol after sundown on Friday the 24th through the 26th to see it lit up green in honor of National Mentoring Month! Take the opportunity to post on your social media and tag us sharing your mentoring story or honor a past mentor in your life!
Did you know we have 6 different types of programs you can choose to mentor in? Come learn about our mission, mentoring programs and other opportunities to support the youth in Middle TN. This is the easiest step in starting your journey to becoming a Big! Sign up here.
  • 4 of the talented youth in our programs designed custom bookmarks in honor of National Mentoring Month. Go find yours at your local library or bookstore. Reach out if you would like a bulk amount for a school or book club! 
“Simply showing up and caring will be a huge deal to your new friend.”
“I’ve been matched with my Little for a year now, and while I hope I’ve started to have a positive impact on her, I can’t even begin to explain the impact she’s had on me.”
“Most importantly, have fun!”
“This will be such an amazing learning experience and rewarding in countless ways.”
“It can be hard at times, but totally worth it.”
“The little things matter.”
“You will get so much out of it, as will your Little. It will be so awesome to look back after a year.”
“It will be rewarding after you have been matched for some time and your little tells you that he looks up to you and you’ve made him a better person.”
“What you might not realize is how much you’ll get back.”
“You may not know what to say, but sometimes you don’t have to say anything.”
“The ability to see your Little’s growth is remarkable”
“Be prepared to learn more about yourself.”
“It’s truly a great way to share your time for the betterment of yourself and the community.”
“You will be amazed at all of the experiences you will have together.”
“While you have a major impact on an amazing young person, you will be forever changed by their impact on you.”
“It’s not about what you do or how cool you are. It’s about being a constant supportive presence in your Little’s life.”
“You are making memories for a child who will always remember.”
“You may think you’re the one making a difference in their lives, but they’re the biggest influencers here. It’s worth it.”
“This experience will equally challenge and excite you.”
“Not every outing needs to be fancy. Just show up and listen.”
“I love being a Big. It has been so fun and exciting watching my Little open up and grow.”
“My Little keeps me on my toes and encourages me in the best way.”
“All of our activities, big or small, are fun and I love that we can talk about our days, friends, and family. I truly feel as though I gained a little sister.”
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Other Ways to Support National Mentoring Month

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Tag us in a post about a mentor in your life or your match story!

Refer a Friend to be entered into our National Mentoring Month Raffle
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Refer a Company or Organization for an Info Session
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Take a trip down memory lane with our photo gallery from last year! 📸✨ Don’t forget to check back as we add new moments from this year’s celebrations! 🫶 #BBBSMT #NationalMentoringMonth

Korean War Veterans Memorial Bridge Lit up green for National Mentoring Month Mentoring Month
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We encourage you to post your photos on social media and tag us @mentorakid. 

big appreciation celebration

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We encourage you to post your photos on social media and tag us @mentorakid. 

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Phone: (615) 329-9191
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