For the past 16 years, Melanie Stewart has been at the helm of Big Brothers Big Sisters South-West Durham and Northumberland, leading with passion and dedication. Her journey with the organization began when she moved to the area, seeking a new way to make an impact. After working in youth intervention, she wanted to focus on prevention—helping young people before they reached a crisis point. When she saw that there was an opening at Big Brothers Big Sisters, she knew it was the right opportunity to give back to her local community.
“I wish people truly understood the full impact of Big Brothers Big Sisters,” Melanie shares. “The ripple effect of our work extends far beyond the children and youth we serve—it reaches mentors, families, volunteers, and even our staff. Seeing the real, lasting changes in their lives is incredible.”
Under Melanie’s leadership, the organization has expanded significantly, growing from serving just Ajax and Pickering to now supporting youth across South-West Durham and Northumberland. Along the way, there have been challenges, but thanks to the commitment of staff and volunteers, BBBS has remained steadfast in its mission—ensuring young people receive the support they need to reach their full potential.
“To witness the deep, lasting connections formed through our programs is truly inspiring,” Melanie says. “It’s incredible to see young people thrive, overcome obstacles, set goals, and give back to their own communities as they transition into adulthood.”
When reflecting on her most cherished memories at BBBS, Melanie finds it hard to choose just one. “There are so many,” she says with a smile. “Watching mentees graduate from our programs, hearing them nominate their ‘Big’ as mentor of the year and share the heartfelt reasons why, celebrating at holiday parties, and bringing people together at bowling nights. I also love connecting with donors, hearing their stories of why they give, and seeing our students gain hands-on experience in social service work, growing in confidence as they prepare for their careers. Moments like these remind us why we do this work—they reaffirm just how meaningful and far-reaching our impact is.”
As Big Brothers Big Sisters South–West Durham and Northumberland celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, Melanie and her team are excited to reflect on the countless lives that have been changed—not only the children and youth who have been mentored but also the adults who have stepped up to make a difference.
