Safety First
Your child’s safety is extremely important to us. Big Brothers Big Sisters conducts a thorough background check on every program volunteer, and every relationship is closely monitored and supported by a professionally trained Match Specialist.
Family Matters
You know what’s best for your child. So we’ll need your help from the start, providing information about your child’s strengths and needs, and ultimately approving the Big Brother or Big Sister match. But your role doesn’t end there.
Eligibility
Child enrollment consists of an application and an interview process. Children must meet the following criteria in order to be enrolled:
- Live in Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa, Walton, or Bay County
- Be in kindergarten through the eighth grade
- Want to spend time with a Big Brother or Big Sister
- Agree to a minimum of a one-year commitment
It all starts with the right role models and Big Brothers Big Sisters is the place to start a relationship with one. For over 35 years, we have been able to recruit, screen, match, and support mentoring relationships that have changed the lives of young people throughout Northwest Florida — one Little at a time. To start the enrollment process, click the button below to find your local office and fill out the enrollment application.
You’ll feel the impact as much as your child.
A study for Big Brothers Big Sisters found that kids matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister:
are more confident
are more likely to steer clear of drugs and alcohol
do better in school
get along better with their family and friends
feel better about themselves*
*Tierney, J.P., Grossman, J.B., and Resch, N.L. (1995) Making a Difference: An Impact Study of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Philadelphia: Public/Private Ventures
Your Questions
Answered
We’re here to help you every step of the way. Here are answers to some of our most common questions.
Who are your volunteers?
Bigs are volunteer mentors who are 18 years or older and want to make a difference in the life of a youth Little. These mentors are friends, role models, advocates and someone who stands with children as they realize their full potential.
What is the commitment?
We ask our Littles and families for a commitment to their Big and Little Match for one year, however the hope is that the Match will create a life-long bond!
How do I know if the program is right for my child?
Life has many ups and downs, and the more support in life the better. We all need a role model in our lives. Many times, a non-parent role model can provide a trusted source in which Littles can confide. However, for an effective relationship to develop your child must have the desire and have the ability to form a friendship with an adult.
How do I choose a Big for my child?
Together you, your child, the Big and our team will work together to make the perfect Match. Matches are made based on many factors. Our professional team looks for Bigs that they think will be a good fit based on where they live, preferences, personality, interests, life experiences and more.
Can my other children tag along on match outings?
One of the unique and important aspects to the program is that it is one-to-one. This is what makes the Match relationship strong and ultimately impactful for your child. If you feel that your other children could benefit from the program, consider enrolling them too!
What do Matches do together?
Match activities are discussed and decided on primarily by the parent/guardian and the Big, of course with input from the Little. Our Matches spend time doing activities they’re both interested in, which could be anything such as fishing, going to the park, baking, making crafts, riding bikes, going to the library, and much more!
How frequently will my child meet with their Big?
It is the parent or guardian’s responsibility to work with the Big to coordinate Match outings. Each Big commits to connecting with their Little a minimum of two times a month in person.
How long does it take a get a Big?
We typically have a waitlist of Littles. However, we don’t match on a first come first serve basis, per se. Bigs and Littles are evaluated to determine a good fit for a lasting and effective relationship. Depending on your child’s needs and location, finding a Big can take anywhere from three months or longer. New partnerships and Big recruitment happens on an ongoing basis to fill the needs of our Littles and their families as quickly as possible.
What does it cost to get a Big?
The program is free of cost to our families. We suggest that Matches engage in little to no cost activities.
