If you ask the team at the Manhattan-area chapter of Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) what motivates them, you’ll hear one common refrain: these relationships change lives. The one-to-one mentoring program carefully matches mentors (“Bigs”) with local children ages 6-18 (“Littles”). The local chapter currently supports 119 matches and has served 167 youth thus far in 2025. One long-running local match just celebrated a decade together! Yet, another 48 children are waiting for a mentor. Locally, boys can wait up to two years to be matched.
Independent research shows that youth who participate in the program are more likely to finish school, hold leadership roles, and report higher self-confidence. Beyond the data, the impact of this work is personal to the Manhattan team. “It’s just as rewarding for the mentor as it is for the youth that we’re helping out,” shares BBBS Area Director Michelle Sink.
Locally, the need for strong role models is greater than many in the community might realize. Over 1,000 kids qualify for the Manhattan-area BBBS program based on income alone. Many enrolled youth have faced difficult circumstances - from experiences of abuse to challenges in school and feelings of isolation - yet each one is taking steps toward healing, growth, and connection with the help of BBBS. “We know that a lot of the kids in our program may have suffered some type of loss or sense of loss in their life… We really want to make sure that we’re making a positive impact on all of our youth’s lives,” says Michelle.
Five years ago, most local mentors were Kansas State students. The average match lasted about a year, before college graduation or life changes brought an end to the match. Under Michelle’s leadership, the organization has expanded the focus of its outreach efforts to community volunteers, extending the average match length to almost three years. College students are still encouraged, especially in site-based matches that meet during the school year. Community volunteers often choose community-based matches, which meet two to four times a month, a few hours each time. Rob Wild, a local Big who meets his Little once a week for lunch, sums it up this way: “If you have time to eat lunch, you have time to be a Big.” The commitment is lighter but more impactful than most people expect.
Behind every match is a mighty Match Support Specialist: a trained professional who interviews volunteers and families, makes thoughtful matches, and checks in regularly with mentors and families. Their work involves helping Bigs navigate tough moments and connecting families with resources when they experience hardship, like food insecurity, an unexpectedly high heating bill, or even temporary homelessness. “We don’t ask Bigs to solve every problem,” says Match Support Supervisor Kaydee Tran. “We ask them to show up with a listening ear and a kind heart. We’ll help with the rest.”
The holiday season is a busy time for BBBS. On December 6th, the organization will show up in Studio 54 style to the Lighted Holiday Parade. Later in the month, matches can join a cookie-decorating event with kits donated by Eileen’s Cookies. And, through the Give Gratefully campaign, Bigs and Littles team up to thank BBBS supporters.
Through the end of 2025, donations of $50 or more will be matched 100% through the Give Gratefully campaign. The local goal is to raise $110,000 to help close the waiting list and sustain professional support. Donors can also support the organization through Grow Green Match Day, event sponsorships, and in-kind partnerships that underwrite match activities.
If you have an hour a week or a skill you’d love to share, there’s a place for you:
- Become a Big. Bigs meet with their Littles two to four times each month. To apply, attend a short info session, complete an application, background check, and interview, and provide references.
- Share your talent. Serve on an event committee, join the Community Leadership Council, host or facilitate a Match Event or Waitlist Event like a game night, mini golf, or bowling.
- Invest. Donate during Give Gratefully and double your impact, sponsor a fundraiser, or provide in-kind goods/services for match activities.
- Invite a conversation. Host a 15–30 minute info session at your workplace, faith community, or friend group.
- Amplify the message. Follow, like, and share on Instagram and Facebook to help reach the next volunteer or donor.
Want to help shorten a two-year wait for a boy in our community? This holiday season, your time, talent, or treasure can help turn this waiting list into a new chapter for a child in Manhattan. Learn more at kansasbigs.org/north-central-manhattan
“It’s just as rewarding for the mentor as it is for the youth that we’re helping out.” - Michelle Sink.
“We don’t ask Bigs to solve every problem. We ask them to show up with a listening ear and a kind heart. We’ll help with the rest.” - Kaydee Tran