Our Programs and Services
Community-Based Mentoring
Our flagship program connects youth ages 6 and up (Littles) with caring adult volunteers (Bigs) who provide support, guidance, and encouragement through consistent one-to-one mentoring.
Matches spend time together in the community, building meaningful relationships while engaging in activities that foster confidence, strengthen life skills, and broaden horizons. Whether it’s tackling homework, exploring new interests, or sharing everyday moments, each interaction helps Littles see new possibilities for their future.
More than just “hanging out,” these mentoring relationships give young people the tools and encouragement they need to make positive choices, grow academically and socially, and believe in their potential.
School-Based Mentoring
In our school-based mentoring program, Bigs meet with Littles at school once a week—often during the lunch hour. These one-to-one connections give kids a consistent, caring relationship right where they spend most of their time.
During their visits, matches might share lunch, play games, create art, or simply talk. While the activities are simple, the impact is powerful: Littles gain confidence, build stronger social skills, and feel more supported in their learning environment.
Many of these relationships grow over time. Some school-based matches transition into school-based plus, where they continue meeting at school and also connect outside of school, or into community-based mentoring, deepening the relationship and expanding opportunities for growth.
Site-Based Mentoring
In our site-based mentoring program, local businesses and professionals partner with us to bring mentoring directly into our facility. Twice a month, mentors meet one-to-one with youth in a supportive group setting, blending the power of individual attention with the energy of shared learning.
These sessions provide Littles with consistent role models who guide them through skill-building activities and personal growth opportunities. At the same time, Bigs create meaningful connections that help youth strengthen confidence, discover new interests, and imagine brighter futures.
By engaging community partners, site-based mentoring not only empowers young people, but also connects businesses and professionals to the next generation of leaders in the Fond du Lac County area.
Game Changers
Game Changers is a fun, welcoming after-school program designed especially for Littles ages 8–12 who are waiting to be matched with a Big. Kids meet every other week to play games, get creative with crafts, try sports and team challenges, and make new friends—all in a safe, supportive space led by caring adults. Game Changers helps kids build confidence, learn teamwork, and feel connected while they wait for their one-to-one match.
Teen Group
Teen Group offers a supportive and judgment-free space for teens who are waiting to be matched with a Big. Meeting every other week, participants connect with peers, build self-esteem, and develop healthy relationship skills while exploring real-life topics that matter to them—such as identity, mental health, grief, forgiveness, goal-setting, and planning for the future. Teen Group empowers teens to be themselves, use their voice, and feel supported as they prepare for what’s next.
Summer Crew
Summer Crew is a biweekly summer program open to Littles of all ages, whether they are currently matched or on the waiting list, with a special focus on engaging those still waiting for a Big. The program brings groups of children together for fun, hands-on experiences such as outdoor play, STEAM activities like making slime or DIY lava lamps, and themed events like tie-dye days and water balloon fights. Summer Crew helps Littles stay active and connected during the summer months while offering meaningful opportunities for learning, creativity, and social engagement.
BEAM Activities
BEAM (Belong, Empower, Act, Mentor) activities are intentionally woven into all of our programming to ensure every Little has meaningful opportunities to grow. Through one-to-one match time and group-based activities, Littles explore core character strengths such as empathy, perseverance, responsibility, and respect.
Activities are designed to help youth feel a strong sense of belonging, practice positive decision-making, and learn how their actions impact themselves and others. By engaging both matched and waitlisted youth in consistent, character-focused experiences, BEAM ensures that every Little is supported in becoming not only more confident and capable—but also more compassionate, resilient, and prepared for what lies ahead.