Research and anecdotal evidence show
specifically that Big Brothers Big Sisters one-to-one mentoring helps
at-risk youth overcome the many challenges they face. Little Brothers
and Sisters are less likely to begin using illegal drugs, consume
alcohol, skip school and classes, or engage in acts of violence. They
have greater self-esteem, confidence in their schoolwork performance,
and are able to get along better with their friends and families.
Community Based Mentoring matches volunteers, who we call "Bigs",
ages 21 or older, (no upper age limit!) with children, who we call "Littles",
ages 4 to 18 years old. Bigs and Littles share little moments which
create Big Magic in the lives of both!
The Big and Little get together one-to-one once a week for about
2-4 hours each time. During these unstructured outings they cultivate
relationships that provide children with skills to manage every day
challenges. Through simple friendship, Bigs experience the joy of
helping children discover a world of possibilities and opportunities.They
do fun, inexpensive cost activities like playing at
a park, shooting hoops, sharing some laughs, playing or watching
sports, or sharing hobbies.
Bigs In Schools Volunteers, who are adults or teens at least 15
years old, provide Littles with one-on-one time and attention in
their schools, typically once a week for an hour during the academic
year. Teachers identify children who can benefit most from interaction
with a caring friend. As their friendships evolve, volunteers and
children discover ways to make school and learning fun. Bigs and
Littles can share lunch, play games, shoot hoops, use the computer
lab or library. Be a kid again and see the world from a child's
eyes!
Partner's Matching enables married couples to team up and be
paired with a Little Brother in our community based program. Weekly
visits can include either the couple and the child or some weeks one
spouse with the child, or the other, giving lots of flexibility.
All Bigs commit to being a mentor for at least one year.