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Child Information
About Big Brothers Big Sisters
Big Brothers Big sisters is the nation’s oldest and largest mentoring organization. Since 1904 caring adult volunteers have been helping millions of children to reach their potential and fulfill their dreams.
What Does It Take To Be A Little
A little is between the ages of 5 and 13 who has a desire to have a big. A parent, caring adult, or any school personnel can refer a child to our program.
It Works
National research reveals that Littles are more likely to show positive behaviors in school and at home than children not matched with a Big. Our matches are effective because professional staff ensure that the relationships are safe and rewarding for everyone involved.
School-Based Program
In the school-based mentoring program, a volunteer is matched with a young person in a local school. Then, one hour a week the “Big” engages in various activities with the “Little”. They do things only on school property, such as going over homework, playing board games, eating lunch or watching a school play.
Community-Based Program
In the community-based mentoring program a volunteer provides friendship, guidance and support for the “Little” through activities that help to build self-esteem, improve their school grades, and increase positive relationships. Whether they attend a ball game, spend a day in the park, going to the library or just hand out, the experience will be magical.
Child Eligibility
- Child must be between the ages of 5 and 13
- Child must be in the need of individualized, one-on-one relationship with an adult
- Custodial parent /guardian should cooperate with the program. Staff and mentor
- Child must be assessed to have one or more of the following characteristics:
- loneliness
- withdrawal from family/peers
- inadequate relationship with adults
- poor social skills
- academic or personal underachievement
- poor self-esteem
- limited opportunities due to family socioeconomic status or inadequate relationships
- pre-delinquent behavior/delinquent behavior
- need for companionship and adult role model
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