When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas
Why Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas is a renowned nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children succeed through one-to-one mentoring relationships. This organization serves youth ages 6 to 16 in Travis, Williamson, and Hays counties, providing them with caring adult mentors who serve as advocates, role models, and guides. The organization’s mission is to create and support these mentoring relationships to ignite the power and promise of youth, ensuring all young people achieve their full potential. Their new purpose-built facility fosters growth, connection, and community, which makes it an ideal place for both volunteers and children to engage meaningfully. Volunteers, known as Big Brothers or Sisters, commit to regularly meeting with their mentees, offering consistent support that improves academic engagement, confidence, mental health, and long-term opportunities for children. The organization’s comprehensive support system includes Match Support Specialists who assist mentors throughout their journey, offering resources, activity ideas, and guidance on relationship-building. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas is celebrated locally and nationally for its high-quality, impactful programming, making it a great place to meet up with friends, volunteers, and community members passionate about youth empowerment and social betterment.
Here's what people think of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas
As of recent, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas holds a 4.5-star rating based on 14 reviews.
Users reviewing Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas consistently highlight the organization's profound positive impact on youth and the community. Many positive reviews commend the professionalism and dedication of the staff, especially the personalized support provided to mentors and mentees, which creates a nurturing environment conducive to meaningful relationships. The organization's proven model for one-to-one mentoring is praised for helping children build critical life skills and confidence. Positive feedback also notes the diverse and inclusive culture embraced by the organization, aligning with its core values of excellence, collaboration, and respect. On the other hand, some negative reviews point toward challenges such as delays in matching volunteers with children due to high demand and limited resources. There are concerns regarding funding vulnerabilities that might affect program continuity. However, these critiques are often framed with understanding of the organization's challenges in expansion and sustaining federal support. Overall, the reviews portray Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas as a highly effective and impactful organization with committed staff and volunteers, continuously striving to overcome obstacles to best serve the youth community.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lisa Schwantes
I completely disagree with what "Z" reviewed. You don't have to spend ANY money at all with your Little on your outings. In fact, the office actually tells you to have a budget you are comfortable with each month maybe $50, but no more. They advise against spending a lot of money on your outings. You are not there as a match, to babysit a little or provide to them any superficial or material goods at their parent's request. If you have issues like that, you should be calling and talking to your Match Specialist. Some people do not have the same experiences or do have situations where the parents or even child, may try to take advantage of the Big. However, it was made very clear to me during my interview process that this is not condoned at all. I rarely spend a lot of money outside of the occasional trip to the movies, which can be pricey. But on most outings, we do very cost-effective or free things like: walking around the farmers market, grabbing coffee/drink and going for a walk, visiting the bookstore, attending art shows, free yoga classes, etc. Depending on what your Little enjoys. I also have control over what we do and offer suggestions to her. Sometimes I ask her for ideas and I decide based on finances, etc. You are still the adult and have the right to say no, and offer other ideas. And create a budget together, which was an idea from the office, and then the Little can help out and understand when they have maxed out their outings budget and plan free things to do. Long post but I have had a great experience with BBBS and my match and their family. I know not everyone does but I definitely think it is not a reason to not become a Big with them. It is an involved process, so if it's not for you, I don't recommend volunteering.
Jonathan B
BBBS is a wonderful organization and a great opportunity for volunteering in your community. If you are looking for a great way to impact a child's life in a positive way you should consider becoming a Big. The staff do a great job setting expectations and matching you with a "little." Volunteering can be challenging but they organization tries really hard to set reasonable expectations for the process. If you are creative you can come up with lots of fun ideas for outings without spending money.
z
Before you join make sure you know what you are agreeing to. They will offer very lil support to help out with the child you get. You are left on your own to create experiences for the child you are assigned to...even worse when the parents of the child demand you spend MORE money as well. It's a financial obligation that can become ridiculous.
Taylor Eichelberger
Problems started with poor matching by the specialist. My Little was only interested in exploiting the system, and not interested in support, attention or guidance (which he already had). He said he wanted to go to restaurants and indoor trampoline parks, which happened from time to time, but not on a weekly basis. After two years of dedication, I received a text from his mom that they were done. There was never a thank you (for anything), and I never gained closure from our friendship. The freebie well had presumably dried up (after getting a quarterly membership), and I was discarded like an old rag. Sadly, this further detracted from my roughly 100 visits, and efforts to help develop the young man. I am no longer a resource for these type of community support systems, but with the proper matching by our specialist I could still be a supportive and active member of a young man's life.
Mickey Lynch
They are wonderful people. I know a young woman that has had the same girl for 9 years. She's like a daughter.
How to reach Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas
None
Website: None
Why Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas with your friends?
Gathering with friends or family at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas (BBBS Central Texas) offers a truly unique and meaningful experience beyond a typical meetup. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to creating one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Rallying here means joining a compassionate community driven by the shared goal of helping children succeed and achieve their full potential. When you come together at BBBS Central Texas, you are not just socializing—you become part of a dynamic movement to uplift young lives in Central Texas through mentorship. It’s a place that fosters growth, connection, and service, allowing your group to enjoy shared purpose while making a tangible difference. Plus, their new purpose-built facility is designed to support engagement and community building, making it an ideal venue for group meetups that combine fun with impact. Whether you’re seeking an inspiring venue for a reunion, team gathering, or family day, BBBS Central Texas offers a meaningful backdrop rich in mission and heart where friends can come together to support youth and strengthen community bonds.
What activities are available at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas, and why is it perfect for group meetups?
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas focuses on connecting youth ages 6 and above with caring adult mentors through a proven one-to-one mentoring model. While the core of their work centers on mentorship relationships, the organization offers a variety of structured activities and events that foster interaction, growth, and fun among matches and volunteers. These include group mentoring sessions, community service projects, educational workshops, social events, and special celebrations. Such activities enable your group to witness firsthand the power of mentoring and youth development in action. The facility promotes collaboration and engagement, providing space for meet-and-greet gatherings, team-building exercises, and interactive learning experiences. Hosting your meetup here allows your friends or family to immerse in a warm, welcoming environment where you can participate in or observe inspiring activities that contribute to the success and confidence of local youth. Moreover, by rallying at BBBS Central Texas, your group directly supports and amplifies ongoing programs focused on academic achievement, social competence, and life skills development that are hallmarks of their mentoring success.
How does Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas impact the local community, and what makes it stand out?
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas has a deep and measurable impact on its community by serving over 500 young people annually with high-quality mentorship matches. The organization’s impact is profound: mentoring with BBBS is linked to improved academic engagement, stronger mental health, increased confidence, and enhanced long-term opportunities for youth. One of the reasons it stands out is because of its commitment to excellence, collaboration, and respect, which permeates every aspect of the organization’s culture and work. Its mission-driven approach is supported by a dynamic, high-performing team dedicated to youth empowerment. The new, purpose-built facility symbolizes Big Brothers Big Sisters’ renewal and investment in the future of Central Texas youth. This innovative space furthers connection, growth, and community involvement. Additionally, BBBS Central Texas promotes justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, creating a welcoming environment for all children and families across diverse backgrounds. By choosing this location for a group meetup, you and your loved ones align with a widely respected nonprofit whose efforts have been recognized locally and nationally for excellence.
What opportunities are there for groups to engage or volunteer together at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas?
One of the most rewarding aspects of a meetup at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas is the opportunity for your group to actively engage in volunteerism together. The organization welcomes volunteers eager to become mentors or to support its programs in various capacities. Groups can arrange to participate as a team, which not only strengthens bonds between friends or family members but also magnifies the positive effect on the children served. Volunteering can include becoming a "Big," serving as a mentor who provides guidance and friendship to a matched "Little," assisting in special events and workshops, or supporting community outreach efforts. This collective involvement promotes a shared sense of accomplishment, reinforcing the values of collaboration and service. Your group experience will be enriched by witnessing the transformation mentorship fosters and the joy it brings to both mentors and youth. BBBS Central Texas’ professional staff ensure volunteers have the support and resources needed to create successful matches and meaningful interactions, making the volunteer experience smooth and fulfilling.
Why is the new purpose-built facility at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas ideal for hosting meetups?
The new facility of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas was purposely designed to promote growth, connectedness, and community—making it an exceptional venue for group gatherings. Spacious, welcoming, and modern, the facility supports a variety of activities suited for groups seeking a memorable and inspiring meetup location. It offers comfortable communal spaces perfect for socializing, breakout areas for educational sessions or workshops, and collaborative environments that encourage interaction. For friends or family looking to combine social camaraderie with a meaningful mission, the atmosphere here naturally fosters engagement and warmth. Additionally, the facility reflects the organization's values through its inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring everyone in your group feels valued and comfortable. Bringing your group to this space means not only enjoying a well-equipped venue but also supporting an organization deeply embedded in the local community with proven outcomes and a clear vision for the future.
What makes Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas a trusted and highly rated organization?
With a 4.5 out of 5 rating based on 14 reviews, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas enjoys strong community trust and support. This reputation is built on decades of proven success in mentoring, backed by transparent, accountable governance and high-quality programming. The organization serves approximately 800 children annually across Travis, Williamson, and Hays counties, demonstrating a substantial reach and commitment to Central Texas youth. Its core mission revolves around measurable outcomes such as improved academic performance, social competence, and family connectedness verified through ongoing performance metrics. The expertise and dedication of the professional staff, the support of numerous volunteers, and continuous community involvement have contributed to BBBS Central Texas’ reputation as a reliable and effective youth development nonprofit. Choosing to visit or host an event here means aligning your group with an organization that is not only respected but also continuously making a lasting, positive difference in young lives.
How can hosting a meetup at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas deepen your group's impact?
Hosting your gathering at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas provides a meaningful platform to deepen your group’s social impact beyond a typical meetup. As you enjoy the company of friends or family in this inspiring setting, you simultaneously support an organization striving to close the mentorship gap—over 200 children in the area are still waiting for a caring mentor. Your presence helps raise awareness and may inspire your group members to engage more deeply through volunteering or donating, multiplying the benefits for the community’s youth. The experience cultivates a shared sense of purpose and empowerment, as your group witnesses how connection and mentorship can change trajectories and build a stronger, more resilient community. This makes every gathering more than social—it becomes a chance to advocate for youth potential, creating ripple effects felt long after your meetup ends.
What are the core values and mission that guide Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas?
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas is steadfastly guided by its mission to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth, paired with a vision that all youth achieve their full potential. The organization’s core values include excellence, collaboration, respect, and a firm commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI). These guiding principles ensure an environment where youth, families, volunteers, donors, and staff feel recognized, celebrated, and supported regardless of their backgrounds. This foundational focus on quality, partnership, and respect makes the organization a pillar of the community and a perfect place for meetups centered on connection and positive change. Engaging with BBBS Central Texas allows groups to embrace these values firsthand while contributing to outcomes that benefit youth academically, socially, and emotionally.
Why is mentorship through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas a proven approach to youth success?
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas utilizes a mentorship model that has been extensively researched and shown to yield positive, long-lasting results for youth. Their one-to-one approach matches children with caring adults who act as mentors, advocates, and guides, providing consistent support and encouragement. Research shows that youth involved in these mentoring relationships experience improved academic performance, higher self-confidence, better mental health, stronger social skills, and increased likelihood of reaching educational and career goals. The organization’s skilled professional team supports each match throughout, helping navigate challenges and promote development. Through ongoing assessments and performance metrics, BBBS Central Texas ensures that its programs remain effective and responsive to the evolving needs of youth. By rallying at this organization, your group directly contributes to and benefits from this proven model, making your meetup both uplifting and impactful.
How can your group get involved or support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas beyond visiting?
Beyond hosting a meetup, there are many ways your group can deepen its involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas. Your friends or family can become mentors, offering direct support and friendship to youth waiting for a "Big." You can also volunteer at events, help with fundraising campaigns, or provide resources to support program expansion. Donations are vital, especially as the organization faces evolving funding challenges that threaten its capacity to serve more youth. Organizing group fundraisers or awareness initiatives during your visit can amplify impact. Additionally, spreading the word about BBBS Central Texas through your networks helps rally community support. These opportunities enable your group to foster lasting change for local children, transforming a single meetup into a catalyst for ongoing engagement and community betterment.
Why is Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas an ideal destination for meaningful social gatherings?
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas combines a sense of mission, community, and connection making it an ideal setting for meaningful social gatherings. Unlike typical venues, your meetup here is infused with a shared purpose—the powerful potential to change lives through mentorship. The welcoming environment and modern, purpose-built facility create a comfortable, inspiring space perfect for friends or family to connect, learn, and grow together. With varied programming, volunteer possibilities, and a core focus on nurturing youth success, BBBS Central Texas elevates every gathering beyond simple socializing. Your event becomes a celebration of hope, collaboration, and community strength. Hosting your meetup here symbolizes a commitment to investing in the future while enjoying the company of loved ones. This unique combination of social and service opportunities ensures your group leaves with enriched relationships, meaningful memories, and a renewed sense of purpose.