A highlight for many participants: A team building water balloon competition.
Building Connections: THV’s New Big/Little Program Takes Root
This fall, the Trojan Health Volunteers (THV) launched an innovative mentorship program that’s transforming how our student volunteers connect, support, and grow together. Led by student directors Christine Cheon and Marcus Chang, the Big/Little initiative goes beyond traditional volunteer coordination—it’s creating a supportive community for pre-med students navigating the complex world of healthcare and academic life.
The program pairs experienced THV volunteers (Bigs) with newer members (Littles), creating meaningful relationships that extend far beyond standard volunteer interactions. “We wanted to create something more than just an educational opportunity,” explains Christine Cheon, THV Assistant Director. “Our goal was to build a community where students can find support, friendship, and guidance.”
The launch event was anything but ordinary. Participants were challenged to find their matched Big or Little by identifying movie character duos, sparking conversations and connections. A playful water balloon team-building activity (with Target gift cards for the winning team) added an element of fun and camaraderie to the mix. The program doesn’t stop at a single event—it’s designed for long-term connection, with additional gatherings planned throughout the year and a point system that encourages ongoing interaction between “families” of volunteers.
For Christine, the program’s success is already evident. She’s already connected with her Little, Leann Mu, sharing advice about hospitals, classes, and pre-med experiences. “I want THV to be known not just for the opportunities we provide, but for the community we’re building,” she shares. “A place where anyone can come in without prior knowledge, knowing our senior volunteers are here to help.”
As THV continues to grow, this Big/Little program stands as a testament to the organization’s commitment to holistic student development—supporting not just professional growth, but personal connections that can last a lifetime.