BBBS International was founded in 1998. Its mission is to promote and support the development of BBBS mentoring programmes operating independently in various countries. They are provided with consultation, technical assistance, training and materials by BBBS International, which sets standards and shares best practices for effective and sustainable implementation. Affiliate associations are currently working in thirty-seven countries. The organisation is governed by a board of directors that meets three times a year and is managed by an Executive Director. BBBS International approves programmes for the use of the BBBS logo and maintains active membership of them. The association also collaborates with international bodies on issues related to youth and children.

The essential pre-requisite for BBBS International programmes are:

The program is voluntary for all parties involved

The program is professionally managed

All volunteers are screened for their appropriateness, ability and safety

All volunteers are provided with an orientation and training about mentoring and child development

The needs of all children and youth are assessed before being matched

All ‘matched' relationships are supervised by a professional

Matches are professionally closed and all parties informed in writing

A board of volunteers provides connections with the community, monitors the service delivery system and assists in fund raising

Policies and procedures for service delivery are developed that adhere to international standards and reflect the community in which the programme is to be carried out

Steps are taken to measure the impact of the mentoring relationship and to ensure quality and safety.