Mentoring Works is a new program from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Virginia connecting experienced professionals and skilled tradespeople with high school students pursuing Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways.
Through one-to-one mentoring relationships, volunteers share their knowledge, experience, and career guidance to help young people build confidence, develop professional skills, and see a clear path toward their future.
CTE programs provide students with opportunities to combine classroom learning, technical skills, and real-world experiences as they prepare for high-demand careers and continued education. Mentoring Works helps bridge the gap between education and the workforce by connecting students with professionals in the fields they hope to enter.
A mentor can make a lasting impact by helping a young person:
Research shows that mentoring creates benefits for both the student and the mentor. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America found that more than 75% of mentors experience improved self-esteem and a stronger sense of purpose. MENTOR found that employee volunteer mentoring can increase job satisfaction, and personal growth.
Businesses play an important role in preparing the next generation of workers.
By partnering with Mentoring Works, employers can:
Through partnerships with local businesses and school systems, Mentoring Works helps build a stronger workforce while giving young adults the encouragement and support they need to reach their goals.
Let your employer know you are interested in supporting Mentoring Works as a volunteer mentor.
Complete the required paperwork and become an approved volunteer mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Virginia.
Big Brothers Big Sisters will match you with a student participating in a CTE program who is interested in your area of expertise.
Building the Workforce of Tomorrow
Mentoring Works was created from a desire to support young people preparing for careers in skilled fields. By connecting students with professionals, we give them opportunities to learn from real experiences, build leadership skills, and develop confidence in their future.
Together, local businesses, schools, and mentors can help students discover their potential and create a stronger community workforce.
We are looking for professionals and skilled tradespeople who are willing to share their knowledge and experience with students interested in their career field.
Mentors may come from industries such as:
A mentor does not need to have all the answers. They simply need a willingness to encourage, guide, and invest in a young person’s future.
