The Going the Distance Program matches disengaged young people aged 12-25years living in the Local Government Areas of Brimbank and Moonee Valley in the Western Metropolitan area of Melbourne with a adult volunteer mentor to re-connect them with the education system and the wider community.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is based on the simplicity and power of friendship. It matches vulnerable young people with a volunteer adult who can be both a role model and a supportive friend.

The Going the Distance Program is proudly funded by the Office for Youth under the Mentoring and Capacity Building Initiative.

Young People

The Going the Distance Program is designed to be of greatest assistance to young people who are isolated and need additional adult support and friendship. Young people referred share the need for someone in their life to help strengthen self-worth and relationships at home and at school.

Volunteer Mentors

Our volunteer mentors come from all walks of life, whether married, single, with or without children. Big Brothers and Big Sisters are not replacement parents or social workers, but mentors: someone to trust, to have fun with, to talk and go to when needed. All mentors are over the age of 18 years and have gone through a comprehensive screening and training process.

The Commitment

Volunteers commit to spending 1-4 hours with the young person 3-4 times each month for at least twelve months.

This involves doing simple activities such as having a picnic at a park, cooking, playing basketball, going to a football match - activities that enhance the friendship and contribute to an environment where the young person can develop positive self-esteem and life direction.