Here are the basic steps to becoming a Big. We enroll children between kindergarten and 8th grade and it is our hope a volunteer stays matched until their Little is 18 years old and beyond. Of course, you’ll be able to choose the age group and background you are most comfortable with.
Requirements Because our littles deserve the best
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Twelve (12) month commitment from the day the match begins.
- Weekly contact with Little at a minimum of two times per month in person.
- Reliable transportation.
- No DUI or DWI convictions within the last 3 years
- No illegal drug use or substance abuse/misuse in the last 3 years
- Driving record has no more than 2 moving violations in the last year and no more than 3moving violations in the last 3 years. (Seat belt, expired tags, etc. are not moving violations)
- Provide a copy of social security card or W-2 form showing full 9-digit SS number (required for background screenings)
Step 1
Inquire
Start here to learn more about the commitment and if it’s right for you.
Step 2
Apply
Complete a full volunteer application.
Step 2
Interview & Train
Interview with a team member and begin the training process.
Step 4
Choose & meet your little
Once accepted, we’ll work together to find the best Little for you.
Step 5
Build a friendship
Schedule regular outings and check in with our team regularly.
Your Questions
Answered
We’re here to help you every step of the way. Here are answers to some of our most common questions.
Am I mentor material?
Our volunteer Bigs come from diverse backgrounds just like our Littles. They are regular people, just like you. You don’t need any special degrees or job skills. You just have to want to positively impact a young person. Role models come in all shapes and sizes, and YOU could be a perfect fit.
What is the commitment?
Each Big commits to connecting with their Little a minimum of two times a month in person, for at least a year. How this time is met is unique to each of our Matches! Each Big also maintains regular communication with the agency to receive ongoing support throughout their Match.
Am I expected to spend my own money on outings with my Little?
The quality of the time you invest with your Little is more important than the amount of money you spend. That’s why we don’t encourage spending a lot of money on your outings. The goal of the relationship is to be a consistent positive presence in their lives. If you are going to spend money, we encourage you to seek out low-cost or no-cost activities, especially in the beginning.
What do I do with my Little?
Share an activity that gives you something in common to talk about. Go to the library, check out a book and read together. Play a board game. Go on a nature walk. Hit a bucket of golf balls at the local driving range. Take a ride in the car with the radio on and talk about the music you like. You want to select activities that give each of you a chance to learn more about one another. Most important: keep it simple and enjoy yourselves!
Can I bring my spouse, kids, a friend, or a family member on outings?
In the beginning it’s most important for you and your Little to get to know each other. This can happen best on a one-to-one basis. However, over time it’s also valuable for your Little to get to know the people who are important to you. The main focus is the friendship you develop with your Little.
What kind of support or training can I expect once I get matched?
Every Big receives training prior to being matched with their Little. Once you are matched with your Little, a Match Support Specialist from the agency will be in regular contact with you to provide assistance and give feedback. Any time you are unsure about what to do or how to handle a situation, you will have a Match Support Specialist there to help. They’ll help you with ideas for activities, guidance for handling challenges, and encouragement.
Who are the youth and families enrolled in the program?
Children age 5 through 8th grade who want and need a mentor are enrolled by their parents or guardians. Parents and guardians take a very active role at every stage of the program including getting to know and partnering with you! Every Little and their family has been carefully screened to determine if the program is appropriate for their needs and to ensure that they are willing and able to make a new friend.
How do I choose my Little?
This is what makes the program unique! We don’t make Matches based on who is next in line. Both Bigs and Littles complete enrollment processes where information about your preferences, hobbies, interests, personality, life experiences, availability, location and more is gathered. Our team takes the time to learn as much as possible and recommends a match based on what will create the strongest Match. Ultimately every Big and Little has the final say as to whether they agree a particular Match would be right for them.
Can I choose whether I want a Little Brother or a Little Sister?
All Big Brothers are matched with Little Brothers. However, Big Sisters can be matched with Little Sisters or Little Brothers, if that is preferred by the Little and their family.
How long can a Match last?
Once a Big and Little Match has been made, it can remain a Match until either party decides it is time for the Match to end or when the Little turns 26. We find that Matches that have reached this milestone have built a meaningful and lifelong relationship with one another.
What if my Match doesn’t work out?
We do everything in our power to make a Match that we think will last. However, we realize that sometimes things come up — Bigs or Littles move, situations change, or something doesn’t work out. We will attempt to mediate the situation, but if it doesn’t work out, we will end the Match. If this happens, your Match Support Specialist will be there to support you every step of the way and handle it in the best way possible.
