About Us
Big Brothers, Big Sisters
Our MISSON
Whakatuu Tuakana whakakohe, Whakamana a Taiohi
Enable life-changing mentoring relationships to ignite the power and potential of taiohi/young people.
We aim to make as many sustainable matches as we can to ensure our young people/taiohi can build long-term connections with positive role models. Through fostering their sense of belonging and self-worth, and supporting them to unlock their full potential, we will, in turn, create more fulfilled and connected communities.
Our Programmes
Tuakana-teina based mentoring
The tuakana-teina relationship, an integral part of traditional Māori society, provides a model for teaching and mentorship in an intentional and meaningful way. As a Big Brother/Big Sister, you are a ‘tuakana’ to your mentee or ‘teina’.
Big Brothers, Big Sisters
History & Ethos
Big Brothers Big Sisters is a mentoring organisation committed to supporting young people of all backgrounds in Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau to ignite their full potential.
New York: A Vision Takes Root (1904)
Our story begins in the heart of New York City in 1904. Ernest Coulter, a young court clerk, witnessed a growing number of troubled boys passing through his courtroom.
He had a vision- a vision that caring adults could change the course of these young lives. Coulter embarked on a mission to find volunteer mentors who could provide guidance and support.
Simultaneously, the “Ladies of Charity” were befriending girls in similar situations. These two initiatives marked the birth of an international organisation that operates in 13 countries and serves over 280,000 children in need. We remain committed to our founder’s vision of bringing caring mentors into the lives of children and young people.
Aotearoa New Zealand: Over 25 Years of Impact (1993-present)
Our journey in Aotearoa New Zealand began in 1996 when we established the first Big Brothers Big Sisters programme in Dannevirke. The very first mentoring match was made that November, setting the stage for transformation.
In 1997, the Nelson programme further solidified the power of mentorship. Success stories from these programmes inspired requests from communities and organisations nationwide to start their own mentoring initiatives. In 2004, we were incorporated as a charitable trust, becoming the overseeing body of the New Zealand mentoring network, reaffirming our commitment to expanding mentorship opportunities throughout the country.
Now in Tāmaki Manukau as of 2018
Big Brothers Big Sisters is providing free volunteer-based mentoring to tamariki from our northern border ending at Albany, the western border ending at Kumeū, the eastern border ending at Whitford and the southern border ending at Takanini. Big Brothers Big Sisters is providing inclusive and safe mentoring for young people/taiohi across the region, be part of the mentoring movement and support a child in your community.
Invite us to speak to your business or organisation and we can tell you all you need to know about getting involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters, from volunteering, fundraising, or even partnering with to provide support to tamariki and whānau, the opportunities for impact are endless.
GET INVOLVED
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