High School Students Learn Leadership and Give Back Through HSLP and JAG
School may be out for the summer, but the lasting impacts of the High School Leadership Program are here to stay! People may know Big Brothers Big Sisters for its School Buddies program, where adult volunteers eat lunch with an elementary school student once a week. But adults aren’t the only ones volunteering to make a difference in our programs! Students at DeKalb High School are making a lasting impact on the youth in their community through the BBBS High School Leadership Program (HSLP).
“I liked the experience. I felt it was important for the Littles to know that growing up doesn’t have to be a scary experience!” said one 2025 senior in the program, Elle.
HSLP is a modified version of School Buddies, and it allows high school students to mentor elementary youth throughout the school year. During these meetups, the young mentors and mentees get to know each other by completing staff-directed curriculum, seasonal activities, and playing games. These consistent hangouts increase the children’s self-confidence, social skills, and feelings of support as they learn from and look up to their new friends and role models.
“As a mentor, I could definitely see myself in my Little’s shoes and remember how I felt at their age. I was able to use this to relate with and help my Littles,” said Veronicka, who will be a senior next fall.
However, HSLP is not only meant to help the Littles. Teen mentors in our programs develop their leadership skills as they provide a good example to the elementary schoolers. They also have the opportunity to grow coaching skills to help their mentees with school and social skills. Not only do the kids get mentors, but these young volunteers are shaped to be the next generation of active community participants.
“I have learned how to be a supportive shoulder to lean on and an understanding ear who listens during my time with the mentorship program,” said senior Jessica.
Though HSLP isn’t the only skills-building and community-serving program the young mentors engage in. Many also participate in JAG (Jobs for America’s Graduates), which provides career exploration, employability skills training, and other support services. HSLP Mentor Jessica received JAG’s 2025 Outstanding Senior Award for Northeast Indiana Region 3— recognizing her successes in academics, extraordinary leadership, and impact on the community. Additionally, her efforts earned her a Ken Smith Scholarship through JAG.
“Through JAG, I have gained so much confidence, especially during public speaking. I’ve learned to not be so shy and step out of my comfort zone,” said another senior in both programs, Bri.
We’re so thankful to DeKalb High School and our young mentors for making HSLP possible! To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters’ other programs, visit www.bbbsnei.org or call (260) 456-1600.
