Who are the kids served by Big Brothers Big Sisters?

Because kids sometimes can use an extra person to talk to and share things they can’t with friends or parents, they are referred to Big Brothers Big Sisters by parents, schools, counselors and sometimes, themselves. The children and their parents are interviewed to determine their appropriateness for the program. If a child has any severe behavior problems or serious counseling issues, we refer them on to other services. A few “littles” do have some mild to moderate adjustment problems due to personal loss or family trauma, but we train our mentors on how to deal with most situations you would encounter.

What is my time commitment?

We want your relationship to have maximum impact for the “little” and a memorable, rewarding experience for you. Therefore, we ask for a commitment of at least one year in a relationship. Relationships can last for many years, in fact we’ve had some go as long as 9 years. During your time with your “little” we ask that you keep regular weekly contact. Mentors typically give 2 to 4 hours per week and an average of 10 to 12 hours per month. Some mentors only see their “little” every other week. No matter the frequency of face to face visits, we ask mentors to keep in close phone or e-mail contact between visits.

What help and support will I have?

Once you’re matched, and your friendship develops, our staff will be there to ensure a positive experience for you by staying in touch—answering questions, helping with scheduling, and sending you mailings, newsletters, training and program updates. We provide this support throughout your friendship with your Little. You’ll hear from us in the first two weeks and then every month for the first year of your match. After a year, we’ll check in at least every three months. Will this cost me?

There is no cost to be a “big” or a “little” in the program. Your personal budget for regular match visits is up to you. We encourage you to do free or low cost activities with your “little”. Successful mentoring relationships are about the bond between a role model and a child. Expensive outings and extravagant gifts only take away from the relationship and put the focus on material things.

What Background Checks do you do?

We take the protection of the children in the program very seriously. Therefore, we do a comprehensive array of background checks including: three personal and professional references, child abuse and neglect, criminal background, sex offender database, nurse’s aide registry, driver’s license and auto insurance verification. We also do a safety walk through of your home.

So what’s next?

Getting your friendship started with your Little, takes three steps.

1. The first thing you do is to contact us using the numbers at left or by using this form (to be added soon).
2. Then, we’ll contact you quickly and set up a meeting with a BBBS representative—who will do an interview and start the background check procedures.
3. Finally, we will provide you with an orientation, some information on being a Big and training. Then you will be matched with your Little.