Measuring the Impact of Mentoring

A Social Return On Investment Study found that Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs provided major benefits to young people.

The same study by Boston Consulting Group found that for every $1 invested in Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs, there was an $18 return when working directly with disadvantaged groups. When working with the least economically advantaged groups in a community, the return on investment is $23 for every $1 invested.

In Australia, it costs on average $1,400 per day to keep a young person in juvenile detention, compared to the $1,500 for Big Brothers Big Sisters to mentor a vulnerable young person and positively shift their trajectory.

Our Mentoring Models

Our mentoring models offer young people in need of support an opportunity to learn social, emotional and life skills through exposure to positive modelling by their volunteer mentor.

By demonstrating positive attitudes and behaviours, volunteer mentors lead by example, encouraging young people to follow in their footsteps. This is a unique opportunity for vulnerable young people to gain exposure to individuals who have experienced a different upbringing to their own. Mentors challenge young people to explore new opportunities and ideas for their own futures, giving them the confidence that they are supported along the way.

The impact of mentoring also extends far beyond the young person and their mentor. Research has shown the ripple effect of mentoring positively benefits up to 10 people outside of the mentor relationship, including siblings, parents and school peers.

Resources