Big meets Little.

Big Brothers Big Sisters targets the children who need us most, including those living in single parent homes, growing up in poverty and coping with parental incarceration. Starting something begins with finding a great match between a Big and a Little. Making these matches, and performing all the background work involved with them, is possible because of donations from people like you. It's also why we're able to offer such a wide variety of programs that pair children, ages 5 through 18, with role models in one-to-one relationships.

Our Programs Start Something

Here's the proof. National research has shown that positive relationships between Littles and their Bigs have a direct and measurable impact on children?s lives. By participating in our programs, Little Brothers and Sisters are:

• more confident in their schoolwork performance

• able to get along better with their families

• 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs

• 27% less likely to begin using alcohol

• 52% less likely to skip school.

How a Big becomes a Big?and a Little, a Little.

Before we make a match, we do our homework. After someone expresses an interest in becoming a Big, they go through an extensive background check and careful interview process. Then we match Bigs and Littles based on location, personalities and preferences. And we provide full support from the start, so matches can grow into lasting, fruitful friendships. It?s also important to note that the entire matching process is made possible through donations ?we can?t do what we do best without them!

What?s a Big and Little to do?

Each match is unique. Getting together doesn?t require a special occasion or expensive activity?just a few hours every month doing things the Little and Big already enjoy. For example:

• Playing catch

• Reading books

• Getting ice cream

• Going to a museum

• Providing advice and inspiration

Our core programs:
Community Based Mentoring
School Based Mentoring

Big Brothers Big Sisters National Standards of Excellence require each volunteer to complete an extensive screening process that includes:

• Completion of a formal written application

• Background and reference checks

• An in-person interview

An orientation and training process that outlines the individualized needs of your child and provides information and resources on how to encourage your child's development.

Big Brothers Big Sisters also provides child safety tips to you and your child, and we welcome your questions and feedback. Throughout the life of the match, our professional staff will be in ongoing communication with you, your child, and your child's Big. It?s the best way to build a strong relationship that will have the greatest impact on your child?s future success.