Good Citizens: Meet Katrina Toporcer of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks County

For over 60 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks County has been serving the youth in Bucks County. The nonprofit’s vision is to help all youth achieve their potential.

Katrina Toporcer, director of development, told Access Network, “Our mission is to make a difference by creating professionally supported, one-to-one matches for kids who want to realize their full potential.”

Through mentoring and leadership development, BBBSBC offers guidance and support for children in the county as they grow into responsible adults.

Their programs include:

• The Community-based Mentoring Program matches children to an adult in the community. Bigs and Littles meet twice a month for one-to-one activities like attending a game or going out for ice cream, working on school projects, or even just hanging out and talking.
• The High School Bigs Program gives high school student an opportunity to mentor elementary school students. The high school students are provided with training and support.

Toporcer said that they are trying to expand the school-based program to include adults in the community.

She explained that the impact of Big Brothers Big Sisters program has been well studied and is lifechanging. Being a BBBS Little closes 2/3 of the economic gap and Littles earn 15% more over their lifetime.

They are also more likely to achieve higher grades and attend college.

“We like to say we inspire potential,” she said. "One of the unique parts of our program is that we provide professional support – a monthly call with each Big, Little and the child’s parents.”

On the challenges to fulfilling their mission, Toporcer said the biggest is fundraising. They rely on community donations, sponsorships and grants.

On her favorite part of the work she does, she added, “I love getting to hear stories both of current matches and those who were matched together 30 years ago and how it impacted their lives. Many Bigs and Littles stay in touch even after they leave the program.”

How can community get involved?

Community members can support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks County in several meaningful ways.

Donations of any size can be made at bbbsbc.org/donate, and those looking to make an even bigger impact can join BBBSBC’s Monthly Matchmakers program to provide reliable, year-round support for youth mentoring.

Many employers also offer workplace giving or matching gift programs, allowing donors to double or even triple their contributions. Local businesses are encouraged to host Lunch & Learn sessions where BBBSBC staff can share inspiring stories and engage employees in volunteer or mentoring opportunities.

You can also learn more about their events as a sponsor or participant at bbbsbc.org/special-events/.

Whether through giving, matching, or inviting others to get involved, every action helps ignite the potential of children across Bucks County, Toporcer emphasized.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bucks County’s signature fundraising event is coming up on October 25.

Olives & Vines – An Autumnal Celebration on the Riveria will be held at Faulkner Honda of Doylestown. Enjoy a special evening inspired by the Italian Riveria while supporting the BBBSBC mission.

To learn more about upcoming events and ways to get involved, visit bbbsbc.org.