Youth mentorship in the Chattahoochee Valley provides children with guidance, confidence, and opportunities to explore new interests. One shining example is the story of Little Sister Briley and her Big Sister, Gina, through Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Chattahoochee Valley. Their bond shows how mentorship can shape young lives and build leadership skills.
Encouraging Confidence Through Youth Mentorship
Briley, a third grader at Lonnie Jackson Academy, loves dance, cheer, and designing bracelets. Her mother enrolled her in the BBBS program to help her build confidence and find her voice. Since June 2025, Big Sister Gina has encouraged Briley to step outside her comfort zone. For example, when Briley shared her entrepreneurial spirit, Gina guided her in launching a bracelet business. Together, they set up a booth at Peachtree Mall, where Briley proudly sells her self-designed creations.
Nurturing Talents and Interests
Gina also supports Briley’s passion for dance. They attend local studios and even have playful dance-offs together. “We’ve had a full-blown dance competition—and whew, it was serious!” Gina laughed. These fun activities strengthen trust and create lasting memories. Through these experiences, Briley has grown more outgoing, confident, and eager to try new things.
Mentorship Beyond Hobbies
Youth mentorship in the Chattahoochee Valley goes beyond activities. Gina guides Briley through important conversations about life and growing up. Briley’s mother appreciates that her daughter has a safe space to ask questions and explore new ideas.
The Impact of Mentors Like Gina
Gina works at Martin Army Community Hospital at Fort Benning and runs her own online business. She has experience mentoring youth in South Carolina and joined BBBS of the Chattahoochee Valley to give back, especially as a role model for African-American girls. Her commitment shows how mentorship benefits both the mentor and the mentee.
Research confirms that youth mentorship improves school attendance, self-confidence, and leadership skills. In Georgia, mentoring programs help children develop social and academic skills while preparing them for future careers. Nationally, youth with mentors are more likely to graduate high school and pursue higher education.
A Lasting Bond
Briley treasures her time with Gina, saying, “I wish I could see my Big every day.” They enjoy trying new foods, making videos, and learning together. Briley’s mother has noticed significant growth in her daughter and shares, “Thank you so much, Big Sister Gina! My girl is so excited. She talks my ear off about their time together.”
How You Can Support Youth Mentorship
You can make a difference by:
- Volunteering: Become a mentor and guide a child like Briley through the BBBS program.
- Advocating: Share the benefits of youth mentorship in your community.
- Giving to United Way: Donations help fund programs like BBBS of the Chattahoochee Valley, supporting children in building confidence, leadership, and life skills.
Mentorship empowers children to explore new opportunities, develop skills, and grow into confident, capable adults.
