��ֱ�� of Ottawa

See the Potential in Ottawa’s Young People?

Beat Studios — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 19:58:03 +0000

��ֱ�� of Ottawa is seeking passionate, community-minded leaders to join our Board of Directors.

We are seeking visionary, well-networked individuals residing within Ottawa who are passionate about community impact and local representation. Our ideal candidates are connectors, individuals who can leverage their professional and personal networks to champion our mission, open doors, and help BBBSO grow.

We’re seeking experience in:

Financial Oversight – budgeting, audit, fiscal responsibility
Human Resources – employment law, labour relations, equity & anti-oppression
Fundraising & Philanthropy – strategy, donor engagement, giving
Legal & Governance – compliance, bylaws, policy
Lived Experience (Alumni) – former BBBS participants
Youth Leadership (18–30) – We share a strong commitment to generational diversity—young leaders between the ages of 18–30 are highly encouraged to apply!

We value transparency, innovation, collaboration, accountability, inclusion, and belonging.

BBBSO is committed to building a Board that reflects the diverse communities we serve. We recognize systemic barriers and actively work to disrupt bias within our organization. We welcome individuals with diverse lived experiences and perspectives to join us in this work.

Ready to make an impact?

Submit your CV and expression of interest to Susan Ingram��info@bbbso.ca

�ٱ𲹻��Ա�:��March 31, 2026

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Celebrate Breakfast: A Morning of Connection, Community, and Lasting Impact

Beat Studios — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 14:34:04 +0000

The room was full of smiles before the program even began.

At our annual Celebrate Breakfast, donors, alumni, mentors, board members, and friends of ��ֱ�� of Ottawa came together for a morning that felt less like an event and more like a reunion. There were handshakes, hugs, and plenty of reconnecting with colleagues and friends — a powerful reminder that at the heart of our work is community.

Hosted once again by the wonderful team at , long-time supporters of BBBSO, the breakfast created space to reflect on what mentorship makes possible, and why lasting, consistent relationships matter so deeply in the lives of young people.

Our host, Sam Laprade, anchored the morning with warmth and thoughtfulness. Through a meaningful land acknowledgement and her reflections on the importance of connection, Sam reminded us that mentorship is about showing up, listening, and creating space for young people to grow into their potential. She spoke beautifully about how relationships — when built with care and intention — can shape confidence, belonging, and lifelong outcomes.

One of the most powerful moments of the morning came from Pam, who shared her personal journey with BBBSO. From becoming a mentor in her twenties, to working as a part-time content creator with the organization, and now returning as a mentor through our in-school program, Pam’s story reflected what long-term engagement truly looks like. Her experience highlighted something we see every day: mentorship is not just impactful for young people — it changes mentors too.

Susan Ingram, Executive Director of BBBSO, shared reflections on an incredible year of impact. In 2025, BBBSO supported 936 young people across our programs — each one matched with caring mentors and trusted adults who believe in their potential. Susan emphasized that this impact is only possible because of the generosity, commitment, and belief of our supporters in the room and across the community.

She also looked ahead, sharing how continued support will allow BBBSO to grow, reach more young people, and strengthen mentorship opportunities in 2026 and beyond. Susan proudly shared, “At BBBSO, relationships come first. Not just with youth. But with each other. We lead with empathy. We centre trust. We believe strong internal relationships create strong external impact.”

The message was clear: this community is not only celebrating past impact, but actively building the future.

Adding a special touch to the morning, guests were invited to take home Valentine-themed cards from BBBSO — a small gesture of appreciation and a reminder to share the love, reconnect with their circles, and spread the message of mentorship even further.

The Celebrate Breakfast wasn’t about fundraising. It was about belonging. About gratitude. About recognizing that behind every match, every success story, and every young person served, there is a network of people who choose to show up.

To our donors, alumni, mentors, board members, and partners: thank you for being part of this community. Because of you, young people in Ottawa are not navigating their futures alone — they are supported, encouraged, and connected for life.

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Mentor of the Month, Teagan: Guiding with Heart

Beat Studios — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 19:05:36 +0000

In only about five months, Teagan has already made a meaningful impact through mentorship, bringing heart, authenticity, and unwavering support to her match. For Teagan, being a mentor means being someone her mentee can lean on and trust—someone who shows up no matter what.

“You can never know everything about a person,” Teagan shares. “You’ll never get the full story, and therefore, you can never truly know how much they might need a mentor. That’s why it’s so important to be unconditionally supportive and caring, and to always show up so they know you’re on their team.”

One of Teagan’s favourite memories perfectly captures that sense of connection. During one of their outings, they decided to make a game out of shooting hoops—taking turns until one of them missed, then starting all over again. What started as a simple challenge quickly became something special. They managed an incredible ten consecutive shots back-to-back, celebrating each streak with victory laps around the court. “It was so much fun,” Teagan says—and the joy of that moment speaks volumes about the power of shared experiences.

When asked what she would say to someone considering becoming a mentor, Teagan doesn’t hesitate. She describes the experience as one of the best and most meaningful things in her life. “There is always going to be a need for support,” she explains, “and BBBSO offers such a unique experience for both mentors and mentees. The littlest things can have the biggest impacts.”

For new mentors, Teagan’s advice is simple and sincere: just be yourself. “Kids can spot genuineness,” she says. “That’s why it’s so important to be truthful to you and to let your mentees get to know and trust you.”

Teagan also brings a refreshing perspective to what success in mentorship really means. When she first started, she thought it was about having all the answers. But she quickly realized that it wasn’t the goal. “I’m only 17, and I don’t have nearly enough answers myself,” Teagan reflects. “It’s about being a constant in your mentee’s life and giving them the confidence to grow and learn. Success means creating a safe and supportive environment.”

Teagan’s compassion, humility, and joy for connection are a powerful reminder of what mentorship is all about—showing up, building trust, and creating moments that matter.

Thank you, Teagan, for being an incredible Mentor of the Month and for the heart you bring to your match and to our community.

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Womor’s Journey: Beyond Her Wildest Dreams

Beat Studios — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 19:37:03 +0000

For Womor, getting involved with BBBSO started as an adventure—and grew into something far more meaningful. While she has been in an active mentor-mentee match for just over a year, her connection to BBBSO spans nearly two years, beginning with her participation in the Ottawa Youth Race.

With a team lead, her younger brother and another teammate, Womor raced across the city, visiting various locations and pushing herself outside her comfort zone. “We ended in 4th place that year,” she shares proudly. That experience, combined with a recommendation from a family friend, sparked her interest in the BBBSO mentorship program—a decision that would soon have a lasting impact on her life.

From the very beginning, Womor’s mentorship experience exceeded expectations. “My experience was beyond anything I expected,” she says. She connected instantly with her mentor, Emily, starting with their first online meeting. It didn’t take long to discover shared interests, including a love of reading and board games, which helped lay the foundation for a strong and natural connection.

Time spent together quickly became something Womor looked forward to. Whether they were hiking, cooking, playing mini golf or bowling, enjoying board games, or even spending time at the spa, each activity brought new memories. Some of Womor’s favourite moments happened during car rides, where conversation flowed easily. “I loved listening to and learning from the stories she’d share,” Womor says, adding that she often kept Emily updated on school and her job along the way.

One especially meaningful milestone came when Womor and Emily attended the Big Shout Out Event together, where they officially celebrated their one-year match anniversary—a moment that symbolized how far their relationship had grown.

Among all the memories they’ve shared, one stands out above the rest. “Without a doubt, my favourite moment with Emily was when she took me to the spa to celebrate my birthday,” Womor says. “Words can’t describe how calming and relaxing it all was!” The experience left a lasting impression. “The spa was incredibly beautiful and we had a lot of fun. I am forever grateful to Emily for taking me there.”

Beyond the activities and celebrations, mentorship has given Womor valuable insight and guidance. “My experience with Emily has opened my eyes to the world of adulting a little more,” she reflects. Emily’s advice has helped her navigate different challenges and approach life with greater confidence.

Being part of BBBSO has had a lasting impact on Womor’s life. “It allowed me to form a long-lasting friendship and gave me the chance to participate in activities I’d never gotten the chance to do,” she says. For Womor, mentorship means “forming connections, receiving guidance, and being supported to achieve your goals.”

When asked to describe her experience in just one phrase, her answer says it all: “Beyond my wildest dreams!”

For anyone considering joining BBBSO, Womor doesn’t hesitate. “I would highly recommend joining BBBSO,” she says. “The mentorship program is a great way to form deep connections with someone and go on new adventures together.” Her story is a powerful reminder of the confidence, connection, and possibility that mentorship can unlock.

The post Womor’s Journey: Beyond Her Wildest Dreams first appeared on ��ֱ�� of Ottawa.

Mentor of the Month: Nicholas — “Success Is Measured in the Moments”

Beat Studios — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 15:51:14 +0000

For the past three years, Nicholas has embodied what it means to be a mentor: patient, steady, and genuinely committed to helping a young person recognize their own potential. To him, mentorship is rooted in compassion, consistency, and the belief that every child has incredible possibilities within them. It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about showing up, listening, and building a relationship based on trust. “Mentorship isn’t just about giving advice,” he says. “It’s about building trust, sharing experiences, and growing together.”

Some of Nicholas’s fondest memories come from the everyday experiences he’s shared with his mentee. He thinks back to a full day spent skiing—music playing, energy high, both of them racing down the slopes. But it’s the quieter moments that have stayed with him the most: conversations during drives, dinners shared, and honest talks about life and the future. Those small, meaningful interactions are where connections deepen and confidence takes root.

Nicholas encourages anyone considering becoming a mentor to take the leap. In his words, “The most powerful thing you can offer to a child in your community is your time and genuine care. You’d be surprised by how much you also gain from the experience.” He believes you don’t need to be perfect or have everything figured out; you just need to be willing to listen and show up with an open heart.

For new BBBSO mentors, his advice is simple and grounded: be patient, be open, and be consistent. Trust takes time, and progress often happens in small steps—a shared laugh, a meaningful conversation, or a little win worth celebrating.

To Nicholas, success in mentorship isn’t measured by milestones or big achievements. It’s found in the laughter, the shared moments, and the time spent together. His journey reminds us that being present for a young person—truly present—can change both of your lives in ways you never expect.

Thank you, Nicholas, for your compassion, your commitment, and the incredible impact you’re making in our community.

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Mentor of the Month, Caroline; Creating Lasting Impact

Beat Studios — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 16:55:31 +0000

For the past four years, Caroline has been a dedicated mentor with ��ֱ�� of Ottawa, creating a meaningful and lasting impact through her friendship, patience, and care.

To Caroline, being a mentor means showing up — being that steady, reliable person a young person can turn to for support, laughter, and encouragement. “It means being a safe place for a child,” she says. “Someone they can count on and come to with whatever is going on in their life — from worries and challenges to successes and celebrations.”

Over the years, Caroline and her mentee have shared countless fun memories, but one moment stands out: a rock concert they attended together after winning tickets through BBBSO. “We had so much fun planning our outfits, getting snacks, and rocking out! It was a new experience for us together,” she shares excitedly.

For anyone thinking about becoming a mentor, Caroline’s message is clear: go for it! “Be patient with the process — the team at BBBSO is amazing at what they do, and the wait for the right match is completely worth it. Although it’s a big commitment, it’s incredibly rewarding and adds a wonderful sense of purpose to your life.”

“You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to be patient and consistent. What matters most is that you show up.”

When asked what success in mentorship looks like, Caroline says it’s about trust and growth. “To me, success means trusting each other completely and seeing your mentee thrive and grow as a person — and being there with them every step of the way.”

Thank you, Caroline, for your dedication, compassion, and the light you bring to the community. Your commitment reminds us that showing up truly makes a difference!

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eQ Homes Big Tee Off Golf Tournament Benefitting ��ֱ�� of Ottawa Returns on Thursday, September 18th as Part of Cross-Canada Celebrations

Beat Studios — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 14:14:32 +0000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OTTAWA, ON, September 17, 2025 — The 5^th annual eQ Homes Big Tee Off is just days away—and coming off a record-breaking year in 2024, where the growing tournament generated an unprecedented $102,500��—the single most raised by this charity at any event in its history!

The sought-after event returns to the eQuinelle Golf Club—the Ottawa region’s most awarded public golf course, owned by eQ Homes—and welcomes back long-time supporters, and some new faces, to enjoy a day of golf on this gorgeous course, while making a lasting impact for youth in the community.

BBBSO offers a variety of programs to local youth with a wide range of backgrounds and needs, including their flagship “Big Brother” and “Big Sister” mentoring programs, which pair caring adult volunteers with youth facing adversity to create meaningful relationships that often last a lifetime.

“Extending our commitment to ��ֱ�� of Ottawa fits perfectly with our focus of enriching the lives of the people living in the communities we build,” said Josh Kardish, Senior Vice President of eQ Homes, and a former Big Brother himself. “We saw firsthand last year how hard this charity works to support the kids growing up in our growing city, and our team wants to be a part of that. Our philosophy is all about setting things up for success from the start, and that’s what this charity does for Ottawa’s next generation every day.”

“This golf tournament is our charity’s single most important fundraising event of the year,” said Susan Ingram, Executive Director of BBBSO. “We’re very grateful for eQ Homes and their strong support of our work.”

We are deeply thankful and are excited to come together for youth again this Thursday as part of ��ֱ�� Day across Canada! 100% of the event’s profits support our work here at ��ֱ�� of Ottawa.

��ֱ�� of Ottawa is a local charity whose mission is to enable life-changing mentoring relationships to ignite the power and potential of young people in Ottawa and Renfrew County. Learn more about them at .

For media inquiries, interviews, and coverage of this event, please contact:

Ryan Forsyth, Officer, Special Events & Community Engagement
��ֱ�� of Ottawa

Cell: 613-250-2113

Email: Ryan.Forsyth@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca

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Mentor of the Month, Kailin: Consistency = Support

Beat Studios — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 17:50:41 +0000

For Kailin, becoming a mentor was all about giving back what he once received. “I’ve always believed in the power of positive guidance and how one conversation, one moment of encouragement, can change someone’s path,” he shares. Growing up, mentors played a big role in his life, and now he’s proud to be that steady, supportive person for someone else.

Mentorship hasn’t just made an impact on his mentee—it’s shaped Kailin, too. He says the experience has taught him patience, empathy, and the joy of celebrating even the smallest wins. “It’s reminded me how much joy there is in seeing someone else grow, gain confidence, and achieve things they once thought were out of reach.”

Some of Kailin’s favourite times with his mentee are the simple ones, like sitting down for dinner and catching up on life. But they’ve also had their fair share of adventures—like the day they went to try out VR games, creating memories full of laughs and high scores.

Outside of mentoring, Kailin has a fun travel rule: he never checks in a bag! He also carries with him a life philosophy that guides the way he mentors: “Rome wasn’t built overnight—consistent small changes compound over time.”

And for anyone wondering if mentorship is for them, Kailin’s answer is clear: “Do it. You don’t need to be perfect or have all the answers—you just need to be consistent, caring, and willing to listen. The difference you can make in someone’s life is bigger than you think.”

Thank you, Kailin, for consistently demonstrating the power of mentorship!

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Mentor of the Month, Alex: Diving In and Learning Together

Beat Studios — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 16:04:31 +0000

Mentorship is a family tradition for Alex, who was inspired to get involved after seeing the positive impact a relative made through BBBS. Since becoming a mentor herself, Alex says the experience has been nothing short of eye-opening.

“Being a mentor has opened my eyes to new perspectives and ways of thinking,” she explains. “It’s also allowed me to be a kid again with my little sister!”

From sunny summer swims to sushi hangouts, their match is full of fun, connection, and shared discovery. One standout moment? “When my little sister learned to swim front crawl and was proud of herself for doing a full length of the pool without stopping.” Watching her mentee’s confidence grow in and out of the water has been a highlight.

And mentorship isn’t a one-way street—Alex has even picked up a new skill through their match: “I learned how to crochet from my mentee!” she says proudly.

Whether it’s splashing, stitching, or simply showing up, Alex embodies what it means to be a mentor who listens, learns, and leads with heart.

From everyone at BBBSO, and the community, thank you, Alex, for showing up and making a BIG difference!

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Mentor of the Month, Alijah: Creating a Safe Space to Grow

Beat Studios — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 20:18:54 +0000

This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight Alijah as our Mentor of the Month—an inspiring presence in our BBBSO community whose compassion, creativity, and perspective continue to leave a lasting impact.

For Alijah, mentorship came naturally. “I’ve always loved kids and helping people,” they shared. “So helping kids felt like a great opportunity to do something I love and change lives—even if it’s just for a short time.” That short time, however, can mean everything to a young person.

Since becoming a mentor, Alijah has grown just as much as the youth they support. “Being a mentor has taught me a lot—that patience is key, that change doesn’t happen overnight, and that I really can do this. I can do something I love, be good at it, and make the world a better place—even if it’s just by making my kids smile when they see me.”

Their love for butterflies is a perfect metaphor for how they see their mentees: “Butterflies go through so much change, but end up being beautiful. Just like humans.” Alijah cherishes creative moments, often spending time drawing or colouring with their mentees. “I love seeing their creative side and letting them show who they are.”

One moment that stands out for Alijah came during a quiet conversation with a mentee: “She told me something personal and said, ‘I’ve never told anyone that before.’ I’m just glad I was a safe person she felt she could share that with.”

Reflecting on their journey, Alijah offers a heartfelt message: “Don’t take life so seriously. Smell the flowers. Wear that outfit. If someone judges, it may have made someone else’s day just by being you.”

To those considering mentorship, Alijah is honest and encouraging: “It’s a hard job, but very rewarding. You’ll look back and think about how much they’ve bloomed. And it’s okay if a match doesn’t work out—there’s only so much you can do, and that’s okay.”

We’re grateful for mentors like Alijah—who lead with empathy, meet youth where they are, and remind us that even the smallest gestures can help someone grow.

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