Big Brothers Big Sisters Workplace Mentorship Program

At Dollar Bank, mentorship isn’t just a practice — it’s woven into the bank’s DNA.

Nowhere is this more evident than in Dollar Bank’s partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh. The four-year mentoring program began in 2022 with employees paired with students from Northgate High School with the goal of building relationships and fostering professional development.

The program is cohort-based with 10 students getting matched to Dollar Bank “Bigs” and staying with them from ninth to 12th grade when they graduate. Two years ago, three tenth grade students also joined the cohort to continue to establish the strong relationship between Dollar Bank and Northgate through this program.

Workplace mentoring introduces teens (“Littles”) to working professionals, giving them an opportunity to learn about the corporate world first-hand, while building a relationship with a dedicated “Big.”

Zack Burns, a high school counselor from Northgate, has seen the students in the program grow year after year.

“These students have matured. Part of that is getting older and having to have more responsibilities, but they’ve also matured just in the sense of how they interact here with the mentors and each other.”

In the four years since Zack began, he’s seen students flourish. Some now arrive at program events after their work shifts, something they never imagined four years earlier.

“The students love coming to Big Brothers Big Sisters, even the seniors who you would think the program is not a big deal. I have students who come up to me every day asking, ‘Is Big Brothers Big Sisters this week? Are we going? What are we doing this week?’ and are really excited to see their mentors and build relationships with the other students in the cohort,” Burns said.

Bryant Sample has served as the program specialist for the Northgate cohort and Dollar Bank for the past year. Even coming into the fold later, Bryant could see just how impactful these long-term relationships are on the students.

“When matching up the ‘Bigs’ and ‘Littles,’ we try to find commonalities and that helps to make more organic and strong relationships. These pairs have been together for years, through the ins and outs and downs, and it's beautiful to see them graduate,” Bryant said.

"The biggest thing I’ve seen from the students is responsibility. The students are required to attend 80% of the program events; it is a commitment. The adults are taking time out of their day, and the kids are doing the same.

Four years later, the students are preparing to graduate from Northgate and the program. As graduation approaches, Dollar Bank “Bigs” reflect on how the mentoring program has affected them and their “Littles.”

Emily Burkhart, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Officer

Emily was inspired to become a “Big” in the program because of her own experiences of overcoming challenges and wanting to help others.

“I am driven by the opportunity to mentor, build a meaningful relationship and be a friend, guide and protector,” said Burkhart.

At the beginning of their four-year mentorship relationship, both Emily and her “Little” took the time and effort to create a relationship based on trust and respect. “Our journey began with a genuine curiosity and a wish to comprehend each other's experiences, which blossomed into a profound relationship founded on trust and mutual development. Today, our connection thrives on transparent communication, respect for one another and a nurturing atmosphere that allows us both to thrive,” Emily said.

As Emily’s “Little” prepares to graduate, she hopes that they continue to grow. “I wish for my ‘Little’ to grow into a compassionate and loving adult who actively seeks out and achieves a fulfilling life. I want them to chase their dreams through travel, education and their careers and to take pride in their hard work and accomplishments.”

For Dollar Bank employees considering becoming a mentor, Emily believes the program gives opportunities they might not have had before.

“If you're considering becoming a ‘Big,’ my top tip is to steer clear of micromanaging or lecturing your ‘Little’ on how to live their life. Instead, connect with them by inquiring about their thoughts and feelings, and motivate them to articulate why they feel a certain way.”

For Emily, a particular moment with her “Little” that stands out as especially meaningful was when she realized her “Little” felt comfortable expressing her gratitude. “When my ‘Little’ asked for a hug, it marked a pivotal moment for me, one that signified the growing trust between us.”

Denis Ferris, Senior Vice President, Special Assets

Denis was inspired to become a “Big” in the program because he enjoys helping young people and felt that at this point in his career, it was important to get involved. “I enjoy being around young people and helping people. I have finally gotten to a point in my life where I had the self-confidence to feel like I could be a mentor to someone,” said Denis.

When their four-year mentorship began, Denis worked intentionally to foster a relationship where his “Little” felt secure and supported. “Like most relationships, it took some time to develop a rapport with one another. It has developed into us each genuinely asking for updates on what is going in each other's lives.”

Serving as a mentor not only made a difference in his “Little’s” life but also had a lasting impact on Denis, both personally and professionally. “From a personal standpoint, it has helped me be a better father. I am constantly encouraging my 'Little' to lean into his interests and try to parlay them into his career in some way. I feel myself having the same sorts of conversations with my kids — who are still trying to figure out what their passions are. From a professional standpoint, I have met and interacted with some employees here that likely I would not have interacted with if not for this program.”

As Denis's "Little” prepares to graduate, he hopes he continues to pursue his passions. “I hope that my ‘Little’ continues to lean into his creative side. I hope that he continues to pursue his artistic pursuits because he is really talented at them.”

For Dollar Bank employees considering becoming a mentor, Denis believes the program will help them grow. “I would encourage employees to participate. It's fun and you will learn new things.”

For both the “Big” and the “Little,” mentoring creates a meaningful connection that fosters trust.

"What stands out with not only my ‘Little,’ but the other ‘Littles’ is how talented they each are in different ways. When I was their age, all I really cared about was sports and who was good at sports. I look back and wonder who I may have missed being friends with or learned more from back then. My ‘Little’ can weld and create all kinds of creative things. I would have had no interest in talking about that when I was his age, but now, I am fascinated by it."

David Hale, Vice President, Loan Review

David is a new mentor, beginning in March 2025 and his “Little” is currently a sophomore at Northgate High School. Just a few months in, David has already felt the effects of this important mentoring relationship. He was inspired to become a “Big” in the program because he “wanted to give back to the community by making a positive impact on a young adult's life.”

Even at the beginning of this mentorship, David already has begun to create a strong relationship with his “Little.” “When we first met, I had a good first impression of him. We seemed to have a good connection, and I enjoyed his friendly disposition. He was appreciative of my willingness to be a ‘Big.’” said David.

For Dollar Bank employees considering becoming a mentor, David believes the program will make a big effort even with a small-time commitment. “I would encourage my fellow employees to get involved because there is a real need, especially for male ‘Bigs.’ Personal time commitment is minimal given that most events occur during the lunch hour. It’s fun,” David said.

Shawn Hartle, Executive Assistant to the President

Shawn was inspired to become a “Big” in the program because she wanted to become involved in something so worthwhile.

“The BBBS program that the Bank sponsors is their workplace model that brings the ‘Littles’ to a professional setting to introduce them to that environment. 10 ‘Littles’ are brought to Dollar Bank to meet with the Bigs for an hour approximately twice a month with the time together being semi-structured. I found that approach interesting and I wanted to get involved,” said Shawn.

The relationship between Shawn and her “Little” has evolved over time as her “Little” began to grow as well. “My ‘Little’ is now a senior, and we have been matched for almost three years. I have watched her grow into a lovely young lady with dreams for her future.”

As Shawn’s “Little” prepares to graduate, she hopes that she will achieve all her dreams. “My hope is that she has enjoyed our time together as much as I have and that she leaves the program with some fond memories. My greatest hope for her is that she achieves success in everything she sets out to accomplish.”

Being a mentor not only affected Shawn’s "Little” but also impacted her own life — both personally and professionally. “I get a lot of joy being a ‘Big’ in this program and I really look forward to program day. I have also enjoyed getting to know better my co-workers who are ‘Bigs’ in this workplace program.”

Mentoring is so meaningful for both the “Big” and the “Little,” creating a sense of trust and community between people who otherwise wouldn't have interacted.“My ‘Little’ gave me a card that said, ‘Thank you for spending time with me.’ I was really touched by what she wrote, and I have it hanging at my desk.”

JoAnn James, Vice President, Branch Support

JoAnn was inspired to become a “Big” in the program because she wanted to give back to her community. “I wanted to give back and pay it forward for the mentorship I received from others during my young adult years,” said JoAnn.

At the beginning of their four-year mentorship relationship, JoAnn gave her “Little” space to discuss all her hopes and dreams for the future. “My ‘Little” and I met when she was in 9th grade. We had a great connection and looked forward to talking with each other every two weeks. When we met over the last year, we talked a lot her future dreams, what she wanted to accomplish and how she was so excited for her future and how she would get there.”

“Helping to encourage and support others during the difficult days helps obtain a skill set that is needed throughout your lifetime in many moments. Celebrating the good days and the success that comes is an irreplaceable feeling of accomplishment for the ‘Littles.’ Over the last four years, we all developed a connection to each other as ‘Bigs’ and every 'Big’ supported each other together with every ‘Little’ in our group.”

As JoAnn’s “Little” prepares to graduate, she hopes her “Little” keeps working hard to achieve her goals and understands the perseverance it took to get here. “I hope that she reaches for the stars, believes in herself and follows her dreams. She is capable of anything she wants to accomplish. Most of all that she takes a moment and reflects on all her hard work and perseverance and walks into her first day of college with pride in herself and her accomplishments.”

For Dollar Bank employees considering becoming a mentor, JoAnn believes that the program is so rewarding for both employees and the “Littles.”

"It was so rewarding, and program week was the highlight of my week. I really looked forward to seeing my ‘Little’ and all the ‘Littles’ in the group. It means the world to the kids to see you every two weeks.”

The best thing about the “Big” and “Little” relationship for JoAnn is that they can share the big moments together and celebrate with each other.

“We went to Point State Park at the end of last year and we were sitting by the big fountain talking about applying for college. My ‘Little’ said ‘I can’t wait to see you next fall and tell you where I got accepted.’ When I saw her again, she said she got a full scholarship to Westminster University, and she was so excited to tell me. It meant so much to her and me that she could tell me all about it. It was a wonderful moment to celebrate.”

Jackie Rizzo, Vice President, Treasury Management Operations

Jackie was inspired to become a “Big” in the program because she was worried about the future of the youth in Pittsburgh and wanted to change it. “About six years ago, my husband and I took a moment to notice what was going on with the youth in Pittsburgh and said to each other these kids are the future, and the future did not look too good for them. I felt I needed to do something, anything. Then, Dollar Bank started the BBBS workplace program for high school kids,” said Jackie.

At the beginning of their four-year mentorship relationship, Jackie worked to create a comfortable and committed relationship with her “Little.”

“I met my little two years ago, and we have grown to where we are more comfortable with each other, and we are committed to showing up for each other.”

“Personally, I feel like I am doing ‘something’, and it means a lot to me that I am, in some way, making a small impact in a young person’s life,” Jackie said.

As Jackie’s "Little” prepares to graduate, she hopes her “Little” remembers the meaningful time they spent together. “I hope my 'Little’ looks back on little moments that maybe I said something they remembered that was meaningful and helped them see things differently or in a new way. I am hoping that my 'Little’ felt better knowing she could share with me what was going through her mind when making career and college decisions — which is stressful for anyone.”

Jackie believes the program shows that anyone can make a difference in someone else’s life. “Some people probably think they don’t have time or they are not cut out for this, but when we take that one hour every other week to be present for a youngster who is going through so much change physically and emotionally in their life, they will see they get so much out of it knowing they just might be making a difference,” Jackie said.

Mentoring is a powerful experience for both the mentor and mentee, creating shared understanding and a sense of community where it might not have existed before.

“A particular moment that stands out to me was when I saw her looking for me when I arrived a couple minutes late, and the first time she ran up to me and hugged me.”

Eric Smith, Assistant Vice President, Corporate Banking

Eric was inspired to become a "Big” in the program because he believes that it is important to guide young people during one of the most impressionable stages of life. “Mentorship has always been important to me. In all stages of life whether it is sports, school or career, having someone with experience to guide you to the right path is very important,” said Eric.

Early in their mentorship, it took a little bit for Eric and his “Little” to warm up to each other but once they did, their mentoring relationship blossomed. “It was slow moving at the beginning, however as time went on, we got closer and developed a good relationship.”

Mentoring didn’t just influence Eric’s “Little,” it positively impacted himself, bringing perspective to his own life at work and elsewhere. “It has helped me understand that sometimes you just need to be there to listen and show up to have an impact,” said Eric.

As Eric's "Little” prepares to graduate, he hopes that he continues to grow as he enters college. “I really hope that he graduates from college with good grades and plays football for all four years. I am excited for him to grow, meet new people and learn.”

For Dollar Bank employees considering becoming a mentor, Eric believes the program is a great experience and “great people from Dollar Bank do it too.”

Both the “Big” and the “Little” gain something meaningful from mentoring, forging trust and friendships between people whose paths might never have crossed. “I feel like I watched him open up and gain more confidence throughout the program to speak his mind.”

Tony Thompson, Vice President, Counsel

Tony was inspired to become a “Big” because he believes in the power of mentorship. “I have participated in numerous mentorship programs in the past and I understand how instrumental a mentor can be to youth in our community. Having a site-based program at Dollar Bank provided me with the opportunity to continue the work without encroaching upon family time,” said Tony.

Early in their mentorship, Tony made sure to build trust and consistency, creating an environment where his “Little” knew he had a safe space to share. “When we first met, it took a while for my 'Little’ to open to me, but over time we both learned how to most effectively communicate with each other, and I believe we have a strong mentor/mentee relationship. He even occasionally cracks jokes about me in some of our group sessions.”

The mentorship experience affected more than just Tony’s “Little,” it also brought growth and perspective to his own life, both at work and beyond. “It is personally rewarding for me to engage with youth. It is a two-way learning experience. Professionally, given the site-based nature of this program, I have been able to develop connections with individuals from various departments at the Bank, many of which I would otherwise have no communication with.”

As Tony’s "Little” prepares to graduate, he hopes his “Little” continues to reach his goals. “I hope my ‘Little’ continues to increase his self-confidence and that he achieves all his personal and professional goals.”

For Dollar Bank employees considering becoming a mentor, Tony believes the program is great for employees. “Do it! You will not regret it, and the kids are awesome!”

Mentoring is so meaningful for both the “Big” and the “Little,” creating a sense of trust and community between people who otherwise wouldn't have interacted.

About Dollar Bank

As the nation's largest independent mutual bank, Dollar Bank has been empowering the communities and customers we serve for 170 years. Our more than 90 locations throughout Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio and Virginia provide a comprehensive range of personal, small business and corporate banking solutions. We continue to invest in our customers and strengthen our communities through financial education programs and partnerships with organizations who share our dedication to building opportunities for all. As of November 2024, Dollar Bank reported total assets of $11.5 billion, total loans of $9.1 billion, and total deposits of $9.5 billion. For more information, visit Dollar.Bank.