Become a Big Brother or Big Sister!

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"Bigs" in the Community Program are adults, 18 and older, who volunteer to spend some time each month mentoring a child. Our "Bigs" demonstrate stability, responsibility and dependability. The role of the "Big" is to be a friend and mentor, not a surrogate parent, entertainer or babysitter. "Bigs" help their "Littles" expand their horizons, improve their ability to think and learn, develop new relationships, go to new places, learn about being a good person and valuable member of society and perhaps most importantly, have fun doing it.

There is a specific need for Big Brother volunteers. Typically 2/3 of the children on our waiting list are boys, but only 3 out of 10 volunteer inquiries come from men!

Our "Littles" are children between the ages of 6 through 18 who are facing adversity. Typically, either a parent or school representative makes a request for the child to have a mentor. Big Brothers Big Sisters strives to serve the children who need us most, including those living in single parent homes, growing up in poverty and coping with parental incarceration. All "Littles" and their parent/guardian have expressed a desire to have a mentor.

Match Commitment: In the Community-Based Mentoring Program, "Bigs" generally spend between 8-12 hours or 2-4 visits per month with their "Littles" and commit at least one year to developing a relationship. This program offers flexibility to share a variety of activities during times that fit into both parties’ schedules.

Once matched, "Bigs" commonly pick their "Littles" up at their home to enjoy activities out and about within the community. Matches are encouraged to participate in low-to-no-cost activities, with an emphasis on building a relationship over time. "Bigs" and "Littles" can share the kinds of activities they already like to do. Play sports together. Go on a hike. Read books. Eat a pizza with extra anchovies. Or just give some advice and inspiration.