your mentorship can change a life in central & eastern virginia — Starting today.
About us
At Big Brothers Big Sisters, we see every day how a mentor can change a young person’s life. By matching volunteer mentors with local youth, we help children build confidence, strengthen resilience, and discover their full potential. Whether it’s a walk through the neighborhood, a conversation on a park bench, or shooting hoops together, life’s everyday moments become big opportunities.
Our Big Brothers Big Sisters agency provides youth mentoring throughout Central and Eastern Virginia, including Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico, Petersburg, Hopewell, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Newport News, Hampton, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and surrounding communities. From Greater Richmond to Hampton Roads, we’re committed to creating safe, inclusive, mentoring relationships that help young people thrive.
We proudly support military-connected youth and families and believe our mission is strongest when every child, family, volunteer, donor, partner, and employee feels welcomed, respected, and valued. By embracing diversity, fostering cultural competency, and supporting LGBTQ+ youth, we help create mentoring relationships where young people of all backgrounds feel seen, supported, and empowered. Hundreds of local youth are waiting for a mentor. Will you join us and empower potential?
OUR IMPACT
measurable results that change lives every day
Mentoring with Big Brothers Big Sisters creates a lasting, positive impact on both Bigs and Littles. Youth goals are addressed during monthly coaching and outcomes are measured annually using the Youth Outcomes Survey.
85%
of littles improved or stayed on track academically
96%
feel they can succeed in school and plan to graduate on time
75%
report stronger or improving family connections
upcoming events
Join Big Brothers Big Sisters in Richmond, VA at our annual fundraising gala, Big Night Out.
Big Night Out At The Mansion
Date & Time: Friday, September 25, 2026 at 7 PM
Location: Dover Hall
Join us for an unforgettable gala where elegance and intrigue await around every corner. This night celebrates connections that hold the key to something even more powerful: unlocking the potential of youth. Together, through mentorship, we all hold the key.
how mentoring works
Becoming a Big is easier than you think. And we’re with you every step of the way!
Step One
submit application
Getting started is easy! Complete our online application, watch a short orientation video, and tell us a little about yourself, your interests, and your availability so we can get to know you and find the mentoring opportunity that’s right for you.
Step Two
screening & training
Our team will guide you through a few simple screening steps and a conversation to learn more about you. We’ll answer your questions, provide training, and help determine the best mentoring program – whether it’s community-based, site-based, or topics-based.
Step Three
get matched & meet
The fun begins! We’ll thoughtfully match you with a Little based on shared interests, personality, and preferences, then introduce you and help you get started with your first meeting and future activities.
Step Four
get ongoing support
You’re never mentoring alone. Your Match Support Specialist will check in regularly, offer coaching and resources, celebrate milestones, and be there whenever you or your Little need support.
current enrollment openings by region
To enroll your child, please review the sections to determine whether they are eligible to register at this time.
Last Updated: Regional updates as of 6/8/2026
hampton roads
Status: Now Enrolling (Ages 8-13)
Currently accepting applications for new Littles (ages 8-13) on an ongoing basis.
Greater virginia peninsula
Status: Now Enrolling (Ages 6-13), Limited Spots
Currently accepting applications for new Littles (ages 6-13) on an ongoing basis.
richmond & tri-cities
Status: Now Enrolling (Ages 6-13), Limited Spots
Currently accepting applications for new Littles (ages 6-13) with limited spots available. Waitlist for all youth expected to open in fall 2026.
our sponsors & partners
Partners and sponsors support us through: philanthropic gifts that drive growth, employee-centric volunteer or donor partnerships, and/or high-impact cause-related marketing relationships. We invite you to partner with us today.
find programs in your community
Discover the mentoring opportunities available near you. Whether you’re interested in community-based or site-based mentoring, we’ll help you find the program that’s the best fit for your schedule and interests.
greater
richmond
tri-
cities
hampton
roads
greater virginia peninsula
stay connected with Big Brothers Big Sisters
Don’t miss a moment. Sign up for our newsletter to receive mentoring stories, volunteer opportunities, upcoming events, and updates from Big Brothers Big Sisters. If you’ve been a Big, Little, or supporter, you can also connect through our growing Alumni Network.