Amélie Martel is making a profound difference as the interim Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Montreal in the heart of Montreal’s youth support landscape. With a mission spanning nearly five decades, this organization is transforming young lives through critical mentorship programs that address the deep-seated impacts of childhood trauma.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
For almost 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Montreal has been championing the health and well-being of youth. We step in before it’s too late, to help prevent the physical and mental effects of adverse childhood experiences through mentorship. We ensure children as young as 6 are supported by caring adults as they overcome these adversities, helping them to do better in life – physically, mentally, socially, emotionally, and academically.
What problem does it aim to solve?
The trauma from adverse childhood experiences can last a lifetime and, without early intervention, can define a lifetime. We can help prevent the physical and mental effects that childhood trauma can lead to by stepping in before it’s too late. At BBBSGM, we give every child a chance to reach their full potential through meaningful mentoring relationships.
When did you start/join it?
I embarked on my journey with BBBSGM approximately 10 months ago, stepping in for Executive Director Marine Papin during her maternity leave. With a background in management roles within various non-profit organizations, I was enthusiastic about taking on the challenge of serving as Executive Director for such a meaningful cause.
What made you want to get involved?
My arrival was truly a stroke of serendipity. Initially, I was considering becoming a Big Sister, and while browsing the organization’s website, I came across the open position. My desire to contribute to this cause was genuine, and I decided that I could probably offer more by leveraging my management skills. I love what I do and I will definitely apply to become a Big Sister in the future!
What was the situation like when you started?
The situation was unique upon my arrival, as it was the end of the year with many elements to manage from my very first days in the position. I was fortunate to have a very supportive board of directors, which facilitated the transition, and a strong team in place to support me from the beginning.
How has it changed since?
We quickly became a united team and were able to overcome many challenges in 2024-2025! Among other achievements, we expanded our partnerships by adding new schools to our in-school mentoring program. We also worked on new partnerships to support youth from diverse backgrounds, including a collaboration with Haut Potentiel Québec. We are on track to make more matches than last year!
What more needs to be done?
Unfortunately, as the most recent studies show, mental health among young people has significantly deteriorated in recent years. Anxiety disorders, depression, and various issues such as bullying are prevalent, especially among teenagers. The demand for our services is reaching new heights, and we are eager to support these young people who need a positive presence and guidance in their lives. Unfortunately, like most community organizations, funding has not kept pace with the surge in demand. Public support is crucial, and every donation counts in making a difference in these young people’s lives.
How can our readers help?
We currently have our major online donation campaign in partnership with La Ruche. People can help us change lives 1h at a time! each 30$ donation will provide 1 hour of mentoring to young people. If we reach our objective of $25,000, the Mille et Un Fund for Young People will match the donations received and help us raise a total of $50,000!
Do you have any events coming up?
We are celebrating our 50th year of existence next year! We encourage people to follow us on all of our platforms to learn more about the events that will take place to celebrate this amazing milestone in 2025. Also, we encourage people to contribute to our mission and make a donation through our regular website, a 30$ donation = 1h of mentorship.
Where can we follow you?
Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Newsletter
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
Fondation La Collecte
