| The mission of Big Brothers and Big Sisters is to make a positive difference in the lives of children and youth, primarily through a professionally-supported One-to-One relationship with a caring adult. Through leadership and standards of excellence, adult volunteers assist the children in achieving their highest potential as they grow to become confident, competent and caring individuals. |
Get Involved - Current Programs
Traditional Matches
In a traditional, one-to-one, community-based mentoring relationship:
- Eligible Bigs are carefully matched with a "Little" (based on several different criteria - i.e. geographic location, similar interests, etc.) on a long term basis (for approximately one year).
- The Big commits to meeting with his/her Little on a regular, consistent basis.
- Both the Big and the Little determine the type of activities they will engage in together.
- The Big works very closely with our Community Coordinator through regular phone contact, personal conferences and group meetings.
- The Big will serve as an exemplary role model and friend to the Little.
Group Mentoring
In our Group Mentoring Program - "Mentors on the Move!":
Important goals of the relationships include improved self-confidence and self-esteem for the Little, but also just to have FUN!
- A group of several Bigs meets monthly with a group of several Littles in the program.
- Each group mentoring session will elapse over a 2-4 hour period of time.
- The group attends supervised events/outings with program staff which will be either structured or unstructured and their focus will vary: activities might include outdoor physical activities (seasonal), specialized Team-Building Exercises, Special group events, etc.
- As always, the Big is required to provide a positive role model for Littles in the program.
School-Based Mentoring
In our School-Based mentoring program - "Lunch Buddies!":
- The Big is required to make a 9 month minimum commitment - lasting throughout the school year.
- The match meets at a regular time and place; usually at the school the Little attends, during their lunch hour.
- The match participates in various activities, structured or unstructured, depending upon their needs.
- Once again, the focus is on friendship-building.
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Testimonials
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Over the last three years I've seen my little brother become much more confident and ambitious. We've had some great times, and a few tough ones too, but he's done so well with just the little extra support that I can offer. I feel good about that, and really enjoy our time together.
~ Justin - Big Brother
I didn't even know what a normal family life was like until I met my big sister. We've had a lot of fun, but I think just talking was what I liked best. My big sister helped me decide on a career after high school and always seemed to give an extra boost to challenge myself and accomplish my goals. Now I'm a parent, and it's my turn to do the same.
~ Rachel - Past Little Sister |
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