The Power of Mentorship
Posted on February 2, 2026
At Children’s Theatre Company, we believe deeply in the power of young people—and in the adults who help them discover what’s possible. That’s why we’re proud to partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities, whose commitment to supporting young people as they explore, grow, and manifest their potential aligns so closely with our own—onstage and off.
Right now, BBBS Twin Cities has a critical need for male mentors, and we invite you to read on to learn how you can help make a meaningful difference.
The Power of Mentorship
By Seth Anderson, BBBS Manager of Volunteer Recruitment
I’ve got a question for you: What do we do with all the potential in our communities?
Because if you spend five minutes talking to a young person, you realize it’s practically bursting out of their pockets—the ideas, the energy, the utterly chaotic possibility. The hard part isn’t finding potential; it’s giving it the right stage, the right artistic partner, the right light.
That’s where mentorship comes in.
At Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities, we don’t think of ourselves as manufacturers of potential. We know every child is already a brilliant leading actor, but a mentor—a “Big”—is like a trusted artistic partner or a backstage coach. You’re the one who helps them explore new roles, hit their marks, and understand the best lighting for their scene. Mentorship is a consistent human connection. It’s showing up, time after time, and just being a dependable friend. And it goes both ways. Many Bigs will tell you the experience impacts them just as much as it impacts their Littles (youth). It’s a beautiful, two-way exchange.
The Waiting Game: Why We Need Men on Stage
Right now, we have a specific and urgent challenge: Approximately 100 boys across the Twin Cities are waiting for their Big Brother. They are curious, capable, and ready to explore! Unfortunately, they often wait the longest to be matched with a Big.
You might feel like being a mentor is a high-pressure gig. But here’s the secret: you don’t need to be perfect; you just need to be present.
These boys need men who will consistently show up, cheer them on, and give them a window into a bigger future. For many, having a steady, caring adult mentor is the critical piece that helps build confidence, resilience, and hope.
To the men reading this: this is a simple, straightforward invitation. Don’t overthink it. You don’t have to be a superhero. You just need to be willing to show up.
A few connections a month. That’s all it takes to change the trajectory of a child’s life—and yours.