The chemical engineering graduate, who works full-time for Dupont in Mississauga, wanted balance in her life, a chance to step out of adult relationships and "be carefree, silly and have fun" with someone from the younger generation.

Seven years ago, Stewart became a volunteer with BBBS, opening the door to friendships that can, and often do, last a lifetime. Now on her second match, she endorses the mentoring program that provides youth with opportunities and exposure to positive life experiences that they might not otherwise enjoy.

Stewart readily admits that the benefits are a two-way street. Married but without children, she wanted a chance to bring out her "inner child." She's accomplished that - and more - since getting involved with the program. She's currently matched with Little Sister, 13-year-old Samantha (Sam) Armstrong-Parsons.

"If people are thinking of volunteering, Big Sisters provides an opportunity for good times," she said of the program that matches young people to adults outside their family circle.

"And there's going to be laughs," she added. "It's a fun volunteer option. It does pay back."

Her Little Sister, who lives in Burlington with her mom and dad, Sarah and Troy, and seven-year-old sister Trinity, confided that she looks forward to spending time with Stewart every week. The pair go on outings that last anywhere from a couple to four or five hours, depending on the activity they choose. They go to the movies, visit the Y, go biking or hiking, or out for dinner. Sometimes, they just get together for a talk.

"If I'm feeling upset, Darcie will call and make me happy," said Sam. "She's someone I can talk to." Asked if there is any activity she enjoys more than others, she replied, "They're all my favourites."

Stewart and Sam especially enjoy cooking dinner together. Sam wants to be a cook and really has a great time when she and her Big Sister prepare meals together.

"Even when I'm older, I'm still going to hang out with her," Sam affirmed.

Participants in the BBBS program are matched according to shared interests and hobbies. "Typically, our Littles, both male and female, come from single parent-led homes," said Laura Hickerson, director of communications for BBBS of Hamilton & Burlington. However, when determining participation in the community match program, the organization often looks at the entire family structure and the specifics of an individual case.

"Our Littles and their families have common stresses, such as financial strain, which often can lead to less opportunities for social and recreational activities for the children," Hickerson explained. "The children we have in our programs have been identified as benefiting from one-on-one attention, extra support and guidance from a mentor."

The need for the program is beyond question. Right now, the local agency has 150 children on a waiting list. Volunteer Big Brothers and Sisters between the ages of 18 and 85 are needed to alleviate long wait times for children waiting to be matched with a mentor.

Many potential volunteers are intimidated by the time commitment to be a Big Sister or Brother, but the agency's programs accommodate various timetables.

"We have a number of programs that vary in time commitment required and are flexible to any personal and professional circumstances," Hickerson said. Most Big Sisters and Brothers volunteer between one to four hours a week. Regardless of the program, however, volunteers are asked to commit at least one year in order to give their Little Sister or Brother some consistency.

For more information about the BBBS, visit their website at www.callbigbrothers.com or call 905-525-3860.

Besides being a volunteer, there are other ways to support the work of the local group. Proceeds from the upcoming BBBS Golf Classic, slated for June 10 at the Heron Point Golf Links in Ancaster, will go directly to the organization's mentoring programs, which have proven effective at keeping at-risk youth in school, out of trouble and off drugs.

The 16th annual tournament will give participants a chance to meet hockey legends Wendel Clark and Pete Mahovlich, as well as enjoy 18 holes of golf.

Interested residents can register on the group's web site or by calling Bob at 905-525-3860, Ext. 308. Registration deadline is June 1.