Developed in 1904, the Big Brothers Big Sisters National Organization is recognized as the oldest, largest and most effective youth mentoring organization in the United States, with over 400 affiliate agencies nationwide.

 The Guidance Center first provided mentoring services in McKean County through a locally developed Volunteer Friend Program beginning in 1980. In November of 1989 The Guidance Center initiated the process for becoming affiliated with the Big Brothers Big Sisters National Organization (BBBSA). A McKean County Big Brothers Big Sisters Task Force was formed, a casework manual was developed, and required policies/procedures were established.

Provisional affiliation with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America was granted in 1990. In September of 1992, The Guidance Center underwent an intense review process and site visit with National. The Guidance Center’s program was assessed on its compliance with 151 standards and procedures and was awarded full membership to the National Organization. The Guidance Center expanded program services to Elk County in October of 2001. Big Brothers Big Sisters expanded to Jefferson County in 2008.

The mission of The Guidance Center’s Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Program is “To provide quality volunteers and professional services to assist young people in achieving their highest potential as they grow to become responsible adults. This is achieved through a one-to-one mentoring program between adult volunteers and youth in need.”