At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts, life-changing mentoring relationships don’t happen by accident. Behind every successful match is a dedicated team working to ensure mentors and young people have the support they need to thrive.
This year, we are proud to recognize Sheena McClain, Assistant Manager of Program Services, as the recipient of the BBBSEM Match Impact Award.
A Legacy of Support
Sheena’s impact on our mission is both extraordinary and far-reaching. Since first joining BBBSEM in 2008 and returning to the organization in 2012, she has supported more than 730 mentoring matches and completed more than 10,000 assessments. Throughout her tenure, she has become known for her thoughtful approach, unwavering consistency, and deep commitment to helping matches succeed for the long term.
As a member of our Match Support Teen Team, Sheena has played a key role in ensuring our safety guidelines and support practices are relevant, effective, and responsive to the needs of teens. Her work helps create stronger mentoring relationships and safer, more meaningful experiences for young people.
Guiding Matches Through Every Transition
Sheena is particularly recognized for her exceptional support of long-lasting matches and her leadership in helping relationships navigate important life transitions. Her work with Post-Secondary Success ensures that as Littles move into adulthood, the support surrounding their mentoring relationship remains strong and seamless. Through careful planning, joint advising sessions, and detailed documentation, Sheena helps create continuity that allows matches to thrive through every stage of their journey.
Building Resources and Partnerships That Last
Beyond her direct support of matches, Sheena has led initiatives that strengthen the experience of mentors, youth, and families across the organization.
She helped spearhead the development of The Big Help, a trusted online resource that provides mentors with guidance on safety, youth development, relationship milestones, and other important topics. Today, it remains one of the most utilized resources within the agency.
Sheena also manages many of BBBSEM’s community partnerships, helping matches access enriching experiences throughout Eastern Massachusetts at little or no cost. From museums and recreational activities to unique local attractions, these partnerships create opportunities for Bigs and Littles to build memories together while strengthening their relationships.
In Her Own Words: What Match Participants Say
While her accomplishments are impressive, what stands out most is the way Sheena makes people feel. Match participants consistently describe her as compassionate, supportive, thoughtful, and genuinely invested in their success.
“Sheena is great. I can tell she really cares and is a huge resource to me.” — BBBSEM Mentor
“Sheena truly has been amazing.” — BBBSEM Program Participant
“Sheena has been great. Give her a raise!” — BBBSEM Program Participant
These reflections speak to the heart of Sheena’s work. Her dedication contributes directly to match longevity and positive outcomes for young people. In fact, one of the matches she has supported is celebrating an incredible 18-year Match Anniversary this month, a testament to the power of sustained relationships and the steady support that helps them endure.
Sheena’s leadership is often quiet, but its impact is profound. Through every conversation, transition, resource, and relationship she supports, she helps ensure that BBBSEM’s mentoring matches have the foundation they need to thrive.
Congratulations, Sheena, and thank you for the countless ways you strengthen mentoring relationships and help ignite the power and promise of youth across Eastern Massachusetts.