Volunteering is fun! Being a "Big Brother" or "Big Sister" is one of the most rewarding and enjoyable things you will ever do.
It's simple, too. You and your "Little" can share the kinds of activities you already like to do, such as:
Shooting hoops
Playing a board game
Going on a hike
Enjoying a pizza
Learning to cook Latin American dishes such as asopao from Puerto Rico or ropa vieja from Cuba
Volunteering just 4 hours a month can change a young person's life.
You've been thinking about getting involved. Now you know the importance of volunteering, how easy it is and how much your help is needed. Why not apply to be a Big today?
Your time and attention is worth more to a Little than you realize. Being a Big is about spending quality one-on-one time with a child, enjoying all sorts of activities together. Sometimes it’s as easy as taking your Little along with you to something you were going to do anyway – like lunch. You’ve got to eat, right?
Becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister is designed to build a match based on shared interests, personality and your volunteer preferences.
Quick Steps to Become a Big
Here are the quick and easy steps we'll walk you through:
1. Inquire Online. Inquire today to speak with a match specialist at Big Brothers Big Sisters.
2. Apply. Ready to take the next step right now? Complete the online application. This will help speed up the process. Alternatively, after you inquire online, a match Support Specialist will contact you to complete the application offline.
3. Interview. A Match Support Specialsit will interview you in person.
4. Background Check. Child safety is our priority, so we'll review your records to ensure you'll be a good fit for our program.
5. References. You'll need to provide at least two references of people we can talk to about your ability to be a mentor.
6. Matching. We will review the kids in your area who need a Big Brother or Big Sister and find the best fit for you. Depending on your gender and the kind of child you'd like to work with, matching may go very quickly or take some time. Making the right match is important to our commitment to form lasting relationships.
Spending Time with Your Little
Once matched, Big Brothers and Big Sisters develop friendships with their Little Brothers and Little Sisters. Whether playing a computer game or simply hanging out - you bring magic into the life of a child. It's that simple.
School-based matches meet in schools for just one hour each week during the day. They do projects together, read in the library, eat lunch, shoot hoops and more.
Community-based matches are flexible and will fit your busy schedule. Bigs and Littles hang out in the community and go to museums, sports events, movies, and more. It's up to you and your Little!
We'll Support You
Each match is supported by professional staff at your local Big Brothers Big Sisters agency. Match support specialists regularly check in with volunteers, children, and parents, and are always available to answer questions.
