background What to Expect - Bigs
What to Expect – Bigs2023-11-15T13:21:57-05:00

YOUR IMPACT IS BIG!

CHANGE TWO LIVES. YOURS AND THEIRS.

Being a Big Brother or Big Sister volunteer is one of the most enjoyable things you’ll ever do. Not to mention, one of the most fulfilling. You have the opportunity to help shape a child’s future for the better by empowering them to achieve. And the best part is, it’s actually a lot of fun. You and your Little can share the kinds of activities you already like to do.

THE COMMITMENT

Life is busy. Commitment can be daunting. Big Brothers Big Sisters offers a volunteer opportunity in your area that is flexible and fulfilling at the same time.

Our one-to-one mentoring model asks for parents, children and volunteers to give a 12-month commitment to develop a life-changing mentor relationship. Each month we ask that our Bigs and Littles spend a minimum of 4 hours a month together.

So let’s look at the break down:

  • 12 months x 4 hours = 48 hours
  • In the span of one full year we are asking for what equates to two days of quality time to change the life of a child for the better, forever.

Volunteering just a few hours a month with a child can start something amazing. So why not apply to be a Big Brother or Big Sister today. There are kids out there ready to get started. Are you?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Will I become a replacement parent?2022-03-24T18:21:34-04:00

No, Littles have a parent or guardian in their life already. What they need is a Big to spend quality, one-on-one time with them. Someone to have fun with, someone they can confide in, someone like you!

What kind of support can I expect from Big Brothers Big Sisters once I get matched?2022-03-24T18:21:13-04:00

Once you are matched with your Little, a Match Support Specialist from the agency will be in regular contact with you to provide assistance and give feedback. Any time you are unsure about what to do or how to handle a situation, you will have a Match Support Specialist there to help. They’ll help you with ideas for activities, guidance for handling possible difficult situations, and feedback on how you are making a difference.

Can I bring my spouse, a friend, or a family member on outings?2022-03-24T18:20:52-04:00

In the beginning it’s most important for you and your Little to get to know each other. This can happen best on a one-to-one basis. However, over time it’s also valuable for your Little to get to know the people who are important to you. Just keep in mind that if you’re spending lots of time with others, your Little may begin to feel jealous or neglected. The main focus is the friendship you develop with your Little.

What are some good ideas for outings with my Little?2022-03-24T18:20:28-04:00

Share an activity that gives you something in common to talk about. Go to the library, check out a book and read together. Buy a comic book to read together. Play a board game. Go on a nature walk. Hit a bucket of golf balls at the local driving range. Take a ride in the car with the radio on and talk about the music you like. You want to select activities that give each of you a chance to learn more about one another. For children, playing can be learning. Most important: keep it simple and enjoy yourselves!

How much money should I spend?2022-03-24T18:20:06-04:00

The quality of the time you invest with your Little is more important than the amount of money you spend. That’s why we don’t encourage spending a lot of money on your outings. The goal of the relationship is to help your Little see the world through a different lens so you can inspire your Little to become something they never thought possible. If you are going to spend money, we encourage you to seek out low-cost activities, especially in the beginning. Play a game together, or share that pizza that you were going to have for lunch anyway. Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies offer donor-supported group activities that are a great way to meet other Bigs and Littles. As a Big, you may also receive notices for free tickets to cultural and sports activities for you both to enjoy.

When can I see my Little?2022-03-24T18:19:42-04:00

As a Big/Little team, you decide together what you want to do and then your Little gets approval from his or her parent. We recommend that you keep a consistent schedule of outings and get together on a regular basis. Your local agency will provide more guidance on this. The outings will also depend on the comfort level of your Little’s parents, your Little, and you.

Who are the Bigs in the program?2022-03-24T18:17:52-04:00

Our Bigs come from diverse backgrounds just like our Littles. They are regular people, just like you. You don’t need any special degrees or job skills. You just have to want to positively impact a young person. Role models come in all shapes and sizes, and you could be a perfect fit.

ONLINE APPLICATION

Ready to be a Big? Just fill out our simple online application. After you complete it, a Big Brothers Big Sisters staff member will contact you shortly.

  • Provide references
  • Participate in an in-person interview
  • Go through a background check
Big & Little Together

I started my journey as a Big Brother to make a difference for a child, but in the end, Desmond changed my life. I am proud to be a part of an organization that brought a sense of joy and fulfillment to my life by connecting me with Desmond, his mother, his younger brothers and all of the wonderful Big Brothers Big Sisters staff.

-Big Brother Chad Van Horn

Big & Little Together
Big & Little Together

Youth in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward Program*

100% Graduated from high school
Improved in emotional regulation, social competence, and school connectedness.
99% Stayed out of the juvenile justice system

*Based on our Annual Report 2022

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