September marks Big Brothers Big Sisters month, and the organization is still looking for mentors.

Executivce Director John Sutton notes the number of children who want a mentor has grown dramatically from 209 in 2008, to more than 750 youth.

Sutton tells CTV News they have seven different programs for mentors, including an in-school program.

Sutton says "for as little as one hour a week, you can make a positive difference in the life of a child right here in Windsor Essex."

Marisa Rossi has volunteered as a mentor for three years.

Rossi tells CTV Windsor she has enjoyed her experience and didn’t realize how an hour a week can mean so much to a child.

Rossi says she helps guide her friend through school and the community to help her become an independent thinker.

Sutton adds the list of benefits are long.

He notes “we have been able to show that kids who are mentored are less likely to be bullied and engage in bullying, and have long lasting relationships with adults.”

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer mentor, you can go online to www.bigbrothersbigsisterswe.ca and follow the online volunteer orientation.