REGINA — Growing up, Leo Gauthier never had a male role model in his life.
Gauthier was raised by a single mother, and his two sisters were not close to him in age.
“You don't really notice the lack of male influence until you have it. I need to know how to shave, get a job and figure out my life.”
Through his mother, Gauthier learned about Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) back in Grade 4. The organization pairs mentors with mentees to learn new skills, support growth and expand possibilities.
After connecting with BBBS, Gauthier was paired with mentor Josh Gold.
Gold joined the organization after his little cousin participated as a mentee.
“So, I was trying to see, hey, where can I volunteer? Where can I try to make a difference in my community? And Big Brothers Big Sisters seemed like the perfect opportunity because I already had a connection there.”
Gold started mentoring Gauthier when he was 21 years old, a time when he was still figuring out adult life.
Understanding the challenges of navigating life, Gold knew it would be important to teach and support Gauthier through his journey.
Gauthier managed to learn how to ride a bike and started working at a job during his time with Gold.
The pair’s bond has gone beyond mentor and mentee, and now they see each other as family.
“He’s basically become part of my family, same with his mom and his sister as well. It's been awesome to have that extra family.”
Since its opening in 1971, BBBS Regina & Area has helped thousands of young people find mentors.
Amy Mohr, director of development and communications with BBBS Regina & Area, explained the organization conducts screening and training discussions with mentees and their families to find compatibility, while helping them understand how the process works.
“There's lots of time and attention that's given to making each match so that it is successful and it can, you know, last the test of time here, as we see with Josh and Leo.”
Mohr said a mentor and mentee have at least one year of commitment, and some pairings have lasted for a very long time.
To celebrate its 55th anniversary, the organization has launched its 55 Doors Campaign.
To open each door, a person or sponsor can donate $1,500 by the end of February 2026.
So far, Mohr said 11 out of the 55 doors have been opened.
By having a mentor, Mohr said a mentee can gain self-esteem and self-confidence. Improved grades and improved school attendance are also common.
As for Gauthier, he is finishing his last year of high school and will attend Saskatchewan Polytechnic for architecture in the fall.
He hopes to continue having Gold by his side for support and advice.
