Built on the power of one-to-one relationships, Big Futures is the latest innovative mentoring initiative of Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Luis Obispo County. The program expands what’s possible for young people, helping them develop leadership skills, explore real-world opportunities, and build a clearer vision for the future.

Through intentional guidance and meaningful connections, Big Futures prepares youth not just for today, but also for what comes next.

What Is Big Futures?

Big Futures enhances traditional mentoring by integrating future-focused experiences directly into each match. With an updated, age-appropriate approach, the program emphasizes leadership development, goal-setting, and career exploration, ensuring that every young person has the tools and support to thrive beyond high school.

Key elements of the Big Futures program include:

  • Evolved curriculum focused on leadership, planning, and future readiness
  • Youth voice at the center, shaping programming through feedback and reflection
  • Training for mentors and families to better support youth development
  • Leadership development for high school Bigs, empowering them as role models
  • Goal setting and pathway exploration tied to real-world opportunities

By combining mentorship with intentional skill-building, Big Futures creates a more connected and impactful experience for every participant.

Adult and child sitting on a bench outdoors with baseball gloves and a baseball, smiling together.
Student and instructor wearing safety goggles while conducting a science experiment in a laboratory.

How Does Mentorship Make a Difference?

The impact of mentorship is clear: When young people have consistent, caring adult relationships, outcomes improve across every area of life.

Mentored youth are:

  • More confident and better prepared for their future
  • More engaged in school
  • Less likely to engage in risky behaviors
  • More likely to stay on positive, goal-oriented paths.

Beyond individual outcomes, mentorship strengthens families, schools, and entire communities. Big Futures builds on this proven foundation, expanding mentorship into a powerful tool for long-term success.

What Are the 5 Pathways of Big Futures?

1

Education

College preparation, campus visits, and scholarship exploration 

2

Enlistment

Exposure to military and service-based careers 

3

Entrepreneurship

Business, leadership, and innovation opportunities 

4

Employment

Career readiness, networking, and workplace skills 

5

Expertise

Skilled trades, apprenticeships, and technical career routes

Building Futures That Last

Beyond preparing San Luis Obispo County youth for a career, Big Futures is about helping them build confidence, expand their horizons, and envision a future they’re excited about. By connecting mentorship with real-world pathways, we’re creating opportunities that inspire young people to dream bigger, plan boldly, and lead with purpose.

Why Get Involved?

Mentorship doesn’t just change individual lives; it strengthens the future of our entire community.

Did you know?

75% of youth are concerned about having the skills they need for employment

66% of young adults would choose an employer that offers mentoring

49% of employees who become mentors are less likely to leave, saving organizations thousands annually

Mentored youth achieve higher lifetime earnings and stronger career readiness

By supporting Big Futures as a mentor, you’re helping young people build confidence, explore career pathways, and develop the skills they need to succeed. Employers who support Big Futures also invest in a stronger, more prepared workforce.

Are you ready to support San Luis Obispo County youth through Big Futures workplace mentoring, career exposure, or partnerships?

Get Involved Today

Young man wearing glasses smiling during a mentoring conversation while seated at a table with a laptop.