Where Mentorship Meets the Arts
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and the Inland Empire, we believe every young person has a masterpiece within them—sometimes, it just takes the right mentor to help it shine.
Our mentoring programs help youth build confidence, empathy, and a sense of purpose through trusted relationships. The arts share that same power—inviting reflection, creativity, and communication that strengthen self-understanding and community connection.
That’s why we’ve woven artistic experiences into our mentoring programs, giving both mentors and mentees new ways to explore who they are, tell their stories, and connect more deeply.
Creativity in Action: High School Bigs
Our High School Bigs program is a dual-impact experience where high school students mentor elementary-aged children during weekly sessions held on school campuses.
Art is a central pillar of this program. From painting and drawing together, to music, to storytelling, Bigs help Littles express themselves artistically. Each session is designed to spark imagination, build self-esteem, and create a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
When a high school mentor helps a Little bring a drawing to life or create a friendship bracelet, something powerful happens—both young people experience the joy of creation and the strength of shared expression. It’s confidence-building, heart-opening, and unforgettable.
Inspiring Discovery in Our Community-Based Program
In our Community-Based Mentoring, matches between caring adult mentors and youth meet twice a month to explore the world together—and that includes the world of art.
We host BBBS-sponsored match events that immerse youth in unique artistic experiences:
Painting ocean scenes at Montage Laguna under the guidance of local artists
Collaborative mural projects that bring color and pride to neighborhood spaces
Behind-the-scenes tours and performances at Segerstrom Center for the Arts
These experiences don’t just nurture creativity—they open doors to self-expression, resilience, and a broader view of what’s possible. Through art, Littles see their ideas come to life, and Bigs witness the transformative power of imagination in real time.
The Research Behind The Art
Studies back what we see every day. Research from the American Art Therapy Association shows that creative engagement enhances mental well-being, fosters resilience, and reduces symptoms of trauma.
When you combine this with mentorship, the impact multiplies. According to the Arts Education Partnership, students engaged in the arts—especially with strong mentor relationships—demonstrate higher academic motivation, stronger social-emotional skills, and greater confidence in their creative abilities.
In other words, when art meets mentorship, the results are nothing short of transformative.
The Art of Possibility
Every brushstroke, every song, every story shared between a Big and a Little is made possible through the generosity of our partners and donors. Your support helps us create spaces where creativity and connection flourish—where young people learn to see themselves as artists, leaders, and changemakers.
With your continued generosity, there’s no limit to what we can create together.
