In communities like Cashiers and Highlands, we pride ourselves on being neighbors who show up – supporting local schools, small businesses, and one another. One of the most powerful ways to strengthen a community, though, often happens quietly: mentorship.
For more than two decades, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina has connected young people in our mountain communities with caring adult mentors who help them navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and discover their potential. At its heart, mentorship is simple: one adult showing up consistently for one young person – yet the impact can be extraordinary.
Across Jackson and Macon Counties, many children face barriers that can make it harder to access opportunities or feel supported outside of school. A mentor – what we call a “Big” – becomes another trusted adult in their corner: listening, encouraging, and helping a young person see possibilities they may not yet see for themselves.
Mentorship can look like homework help at the library, a walk on a local trail, or talking through a tough day. Often, it is simply being present, showing a young person that someone believes in them and is willing to invest time in their future.
Youth who participate in Big Brothers Big Sisters programs are more likely to stay engaged in school, build confidence, develop stronger relationships, and envision brighter futures. In a region where resources can be limited, mentorship becomes a bridge to encouragement, guidance, and opportunity.
These relationships are deeply local. Many of our Littles attend schools in Cashiers, Highlands, Franklin, Sylva, and surrounding communities, and their Bigs are teachers, retirees, small business owners, young professionals, and neighbors who choose to give a few hours a month. Seasonal residents can also play a vital role, bringing life experience and a deep love for the Plateau – even mentoring during the months they are here.
Mentorship doesn’t require perfection; it requires presence. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western North Carolina offers several ways to get involved: Community-Based Mentoring (spending time together in the community a few hours each month), School-Based Mentoring (meeting regularly during the school day), Group Mentoring (guided activities focused on life skills and connection), and High School Bigs (older students mentoring younger children while building leadership skills).
No matter the format, the goal is the same: to help young people feel seen, supported, and capable. In mentoring, small moments matter, a conversation that builds confidence, a shared laugh, a reminder that someone is cheering for you.
As our communities continue to grow, the need for mentors grows with them. Right now, many young people across Jackson and Macon Counties are waiting for a Big, someone willing to show up, spend time together, and help them discover what they are capable of becoming. In a place known for generosity and community spirit, mentorship may be one of the most meaningful investments we can make – because changing a life doesn’t require grand gestures. Sometimes it just takes one person saying, “I’m here for you,” and showing up.
To learn more about becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister, or to support local mentoring programs, visit bbbswnc.org or contact the Highlands/Cashiers office to start a conversation.
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