History of Big Brothers Big Sisters

For over 100 years, Big Brothers programs have made a difference in the lives of young people by providing a friend where one is needed.  In 1903, a Cincinnati businessman, Irin F. Westheimer, offered his friendship to a boy whom he found searching for food in an alley trash can. Mr. Westheimer enlisted the aid of his community and together they began the first Big Brother program - caring adults offering one to one guidance, support and friendship to fatherless boys. In 1908 women became involved with young girls in similar circumstances.

With the increasing needs of children, the movement grew and crossed the border into Canada, becoming an international entity. In 1911 the first Canadian agencies were established, remaining affiliated for a long period of time with the American organization. In 1964 the Big Brothers Association of Canada was founded.

In 2001 the unification of Big Sisters of Canada with Big Brothers of Canada to become Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada took place. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada (BBBSC) is a national organization comprised of 181 member agencies servicing more than 300 communities across the country.

In Leeds and Grenville, Big Brothers became incorporated in 1977. In March 2003, following the way of the national organization, the Big Brothers Association of Leeds and Grenville became Big Brothers Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville, providing direct service to children by matching adults and children in quality mentoring relationships. Men and women (age 18 or older) give of their time to become a mentor to a youngster who can greatly benefit from having an adult role model to look up to.

Agency Mission:

We commit to the young people of Leeds and Grenville that we will be leaders in providing them with the highest quality, volunteer based mentoring programs.