Volunteering is Fun, BIG Time!
Being a Big Brother or Big Sister is one of the most enjoyable things you’ll ever do. Not to mention, one of the most fulfilling. You have the opportunity to help shape a child’s future for the better by empowering them to achieve. And the best part is, it’s actually a lot of fun. You and your Little can share the kinds of activities you already like to do.
Commitment
Life is busy. Commitment can be daunting. Big Brothers Big Sisters offers a program that is flexible and fulfilling at the same time. Our one-to-one mentoring model asks for parents, children
and volunteers to give a 12 month commitment to develop a life-changing mentor relationship. Each month we ask that our Bigs and Littles spend a minimum of 4 hours a month together.
So let’s look at the break down:
• 12 months x 4 hours = 48 hours
• In the span of one full year we are asking for what equates to two days of quality time to change the life of a child for the better, forever.
Volunteering just a few hours a month with a child can start something amazing. So why not apply to be a Big today. There are kids out there ready to get started. Are you?
Community-Based Program
Many relationships between Bigs and Littles are part of our Community-based programs. Community-based mentoring relationships involve one-on-one outings and activities, doing things the Big and Little enjoy together.
Requirements for Being a Volunteer
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED
- Live in the area for at least 6 months
- Attend orientation, submit an application, complete pre-match training, have an in-person interview with our agency staff, and be willing to complete several background checks.
- Maintain contact with the child, family, and Match Support Specialist on a monthly basis
Site-Based Program
Meeting with a child in their own environment can lend to building a strong and unique relationship. Our site-based mentoring program pairs a child with a high school student or adult volunteer at the Little’s school or other program based site. Mentors are asked to spend 1 hour per week with their Little. The program runs throughout the school year. Bigs and Littles enjoy getting to know each other, playing games, spending 1:1 time together, and having fun!
Requirements for Being a Volunteer
- Be able to meet the child at their school for at least one hour a week during the school year.
- Be at least 18 years of age with a minimum of a high school diploma or GED, or they must be a high school student at one of our partner high schools.
- Live in the area for at least 6 months.
- Submit an application, complete an interview with our agency staff, and pass several background checks.