I Am Enough
Emma Kolpek - Coordinator
A confidence-building program designed to empower young girls (ages 9-16) to develop self-worth and emotional resilience. Once a month, Champions (volunteers) lead empowering workshops for Little Sisters. Curriculum is geared to Little Sisters in two groups: ages 9-12 and ages 13-16.
(515) 207-2762
future pathways
Ahmed Musa - Coordinator
Future Pathways is designed to guide Pathways Fellows (mentees) with guidance and tools for post-secondary success—whether college, trade school, or career. Fellows are young adults (between the ages of 18-22).
The program comprises 4 quarters, each with specific goals and activities aimed at helping Pathway Fellows explore and choose a life path, acquire essential life skills, and take steps toward their chosen pathways.
(515) 272-5146
Sports Buddies
Ahmed Musa - Coordinator
Pairs mentors and youth around a shared love of sports and physical activity to build healthy habits, teamwork, and confidence. Sports Buddies provides a safe environment where youth (Littles) can participate in group sports alongside a caring adult mentor (Big).
BBBSIA plans sports-related activities for matches, like playing basketball at the YMCA or attending a hockey game.
(515) 272-5146
prevention focused
Ricki Hall - Coordinator
The Improving Tomorrow: Prevention Focused Mentoring Program is a grant funded program through the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services that BBBSIA received surrounding substance abuse and problem gambling reduction and prevention using life-skills approaches to youth behavior change. Littles starting in 4th grade qualify for the program. Participation in this program is voluntary for Bigs and parents/guardians and is one year in length, with reenrollment options
(515) 661-4244
Group mentoring
Nathan Brooks - Coordinator
Group Mentoring connects Bigs and Littles in team-oriented activities every other month. One mentor is matched with a small group of Littles, helping to create community and leadership development in group settings.
(515)218-7266
💼 Workplace Mentoring
In this innovative program, students travel to a partner company to meet with their Bigs during the workday. Youth gain exposure to real-world careers, workplace culture, and life skills, while building a mentoring relationship that supports their academic and personal growth.
Time commitment: Monthly sessions during the school year, typically held at the workplace.
SUPPORTING PROGRAMS
Tailored to meet unique needs, our specialized programs provide targeted support that helps youth overcome challenges, build confidence, and realize their full potential.
Bigs and Littles meet once a week at the child’s school during the school day or after school. Sessions focus on building trust, boosting confidence, and encouraging academic success—whether it’s through conversation, playing games, or helping with homework.
Time commitment: 30–60 minutes per week during the school year.
📚 School-Based Mentoring
Community-Based Mentoring
Many relationships between Bigs and Littles are part of our Community-based programs. Community-based mentoring relationships involve one-on-one outings and activities, doing things the Big and Little enjoy together, like: playing sports, going to the arcade or the park.
The program requires that the Little and Big stay matched together a minimum of one year. The match can continue until the child turns 18 and graduates high school. There are also options for multiple individuals to mentor a child together by being a Big Duo or Family Match.
Mentorship that fits into the rhythm of the school or workday—creating powerful moments of connection, growth, and guidance.
We offer two options for our Site-Based Mentoring: School-Based Mentoring and Workplace Mentoring
Site-Based Mentoring
Programs That Ignite Potential
From school-based mentoring to career readiness, our programs meet youth where they are and help them grow into who they’re meant to be.