Empowering Youth Through Mentorship and Strategic Partnerships
At TAVANCA, we’re proud to support organizations that are making a real difference in our communities. This month, we’re honoured to feature Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland, a mentorship organization dedicated to unleashing the potential of girls and gender-diverse youth.
Our conversation with Andrée Lalonde, Director of People and Operations, offered powerful insight into their work, vision, and how technology helps bring it all to life.
A 65-Year Legacy of Mentorship
Since its founding in 1960, Big Sisters has been a vital part of the community in the Lower Mainland. Their mission is to empower girls, youth, and gender-diverse individuals to reach their full potential through one-to-one and group mentorship programs.
On average, Big Sisters supports more than 600 youth annually, offering programs like:
1:1 Mentorship
- Big Sisters Program: Mentorship connecting mentees with caring adults.
- Study Buddy: An academic-focused mentoring program.
Group Mentorship
- Go Girls! Healthy Bodies, Healthy Minds: A group program focused on health and wellbeing.
- My Voice, My Power!: Group mentorship focused on self-confidence and building healthy relationships.
These initiatives foster confidence, academic success, and resilience—all critical traits for navigating adolescence and beyond.
A Bold Vision: Unleashing Potential for the Next Generation
As part of their Unleashing Potential Campaign, Big Sisters is expanding their programming and physical footprint. A key component of this campaign is the transformation of their new space into Vancouver’s first Hub for Mentorship—a place where youth, mentors, and community supporters can come together.
This initiative is part of a broader strategic plan guiding the organization through 2030, centered on four key pillars:
- Expanding Reach and Impact
- Advancing Equity and Inclusion
- Investing in People and Partnerships
- Securing Organizational Sustainability
With this direction, Big Sisters is poised to deepen their support in areas like academic readiness, post-secondary preparation, and in-school mentoring—while fostering more accessible and inclusive services.
The Role of Technology in Driving Impact
For Big Sisters, technology isn't just about day-to-day operations—it’s a vital tool for scaling their impact and fostering connection.
From secure communication tools to data management platforms, technology allows their team to stay connected, productive, and responsive. For a nonprofit handling sensitive information, balancing innovation with cost-effective, secure solutions is essential.
"Technology is no longer just a need. It's a tool we use to enhance our work, improve collaboration, and increase our ability to serve the community."
ANDRÉE LALONDE - DIRECTOR OF PEOPLE AND OPERATIONS BIG SISTERS OF BC LOWER MAINLANDA
Why Big Sisters Chose TAVANCA
As Big Sisters began expanding their programming and preparing for their next chapter, it became clear that their technology needs were evolving too. The organization recognized that in order to scale their impact and maintain operational excellence, they needed more than just a service provider—they needed a strategic partner.
"We knew we had to invest in technology not just as a tool, but as a way to further our mission," shared Andrée Lalonde. "We weren’t looking for a traditional service provider—we were looking for a partner who could think proactively and help us grow."
After conducting a thorough search and evaluation process, Big Sisters selected TAVANCA for our:
- Responsive, people-first support
- Strategic approach to cybersecurity and technology planning
- Understanding of nonprofit realities and goals
According to Andrée, “TAVANCA offered more than help desk support. They brought a roadmap. They brought peace of mind. They became an extension of our organization.”
From ticket responsiveness to long-term planning, the feedback from Big Sisters’ staff has been overwhelmingly positive. The partnership has created a sense of confidence and reliability—whether it's solving everyday challenges or planning for the future.
“Having someone who can do both—the tactical and the strategic—is really what sets TAVANCA apart,” shared Andrée.
This partnership has provided Big Sisters with consistent IT support, staff training, and a proactive approach to technology—freeing up their team to focus on what matters most: their mission.
How You Can Support Big Sisters
Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland is on a powerful mission to grow their reach and impact—and they can’t do it alone.
Your support can help fund mentorship programs, provide scholarships, and transform their space into a vibrant hub for youth development.
Closing Thoughts
It’s an honour for TAVANCA to support organizations like Big Sisters that strengthen our community through vision, compassion, and leadership. Their commitment to mentorship, equity, and innovation is helping to shape a brighter future for the next generation—and we’re proud to play a small part in that journey.
