What is Big Brothers Big Sisters?
If you're looking for a fun and exciting way to make a BIG difference in the life of a child, Big Brothers Big Sisters may be just what you are looking for. Every child deserves to have a person in his or her life to count on and to be there sharing childhood successes and struggles ... someone who will take the time to listen, to help develop a positive self-image, enhance their sense of well-being and provide hope and encouragement. Since 1966, our agency has been in the business of forming friendships between caring, responsible adults, like you, and children primarily from single-parent homes throughout Dane County. In fact, we've formed more than 6,500 friendships over the years, many of which continue today. We hear from former Little Brothers and Little Sisters all the time who credit their special adult friends with having a dramatic effect on their lives. As a volunteer, you can subtly influence a child's career decisions, spark interest in a life-long hobby, help a child avoid alcohol or drugs, and put hope into his or her future.
What qualifications do I need?
To be a volunteer, you must be at least 18 years old or a high school graduate, have access to transportation and enjoy being with children. You must also be dependable and responsible. Mature 16- and 17-year-olds can also become Big Brothers or Big Sisters if they have a valid driver's license and parental support. Volunteers in the school-based mentoring program do not need a valid driver's license.
What is the level of commitment involved?
As a Big Brother, Big Sister, Couple or Family match, you are free to decide your own meeting schedule with your young friend. We ask only that you maintain consistent contact with your Little. The days and time you spend with your child are up to you. Ideally, you would meet with your Little for a few hours every week. For School Friends, you have a set day and time that you meet with your Little Brother or Sister. Meeting times are once a week either over lunch hour or after school for about 45 minutes.
Do I have to be young or athletic to be matched?
NO! There are many children in our program who do not have a strong interest in sports. Many other activities may take the place of athletics. Remember, you will be matched to a child who shares your interests. Senior citizens make great volunteers, too. Many of our children don't have regular contact with their extended families, so spending time with an older volunteer is almost as good as spending time with grandpa or grandma.
Is the time right for me to volunteer?
It takes time and patience for a Big and a Little to develop a trusting relationship. Sometimes new relationships can be challenging and somewhat stressful. Many times, our children have experienced a whirlwind of activity in their lives and need some stability. Therefore, it is important that volunteers be in a stable place in their own lives before becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister. For example, you may be in transition or under stress due to a marriage, separation, divorce or job change. Or, you may be moving, have legal concerns or are in counseling or therapy. If so, you will want to contact one of our case managers to confidentially discuss whether or not this is the right time for you to volunteer for our program.
How long will I be asked to volunteer?
We require Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Couples and Families to commit for at least one year. School Friends must commit to two academic semesters. This amount of time allows you to develop trust and stability in your relationship. Remember, many of our children have already lost an important adult in their lives. We don't want our volunteers to disappoint a child by ending a relationship just as it starts to develop.
Do I have to spend any money?
The only cost to you is your time. But, it's not giving up your time, it's including a child in things you're already planning to do. We encourage volunteers to spend little, if any, money on activities. However, volunteers in the community-based programs are expected to pay for expenses incurred during any special event or extra activity. The only cost to volunteers in the School Friends program is your own transportation. You are not responsible for providing food, clothing, shelter or paying any other expenses for your child or his or her family.
What type of child will I be paired with?
We strive to follow your preferences closely. During the application process, we learn specifics concerning the child, the parent and you which will help us make a match. These specifics include age, religion, personality, family backgrounds and ethnicity. Based on your preferences, your Enrollment and Match Specialist will present you with the profile of a child that we feel is a suitable match for you. If you agree, the parent is given your profile.
How old are the kids?
We accept children ages 6-14. However, once children are accepted, they may stay in the program until they are 18 years old or graduate from high school.
What if I am matched with a child who has a behavior problem?
Most children in our program do not present a challenge. Remember, these kids have volunteered to be matched as well. They want your attention and affection and will not risk jeopardizing the relationship. If a problem should occur, consult your Match Support Specialist for advice.
What if I have never taken care of a child before?
Big Brothers and Big Sisters are not babysitters or parents - they're friends. No experience in child care is required, only an interest in having fun with a child. We will support you along the way.
As a Big Brother or Big Sister, how will I be received by the child's parent?
Parents welcome Big Brothers and Big Sisters. They volunteer to sign up their child for the experience and they will do what it takes to encourage and promote your relationship.
What is the family background of the children involved in the program?
Our children range in age from 6 to 18. About 50 percent come from minority families. Approximately 60 percent of our matched children are girls, and 60 percent of the kids on the waiting list are boys. About 90 percent of our children live with one parent or a step-parent. Almost half the families receive some type of public assistance, 45 percent come from homes with a history of substance abuse and 25 percent have experienced domestic violence. Our children can best be described as kids who could benefit by spending time with a mentor, role model or adult friend. Our Big Brothers and Big Sisters play a major role in the life of a child by incorporating youngsters into everyday activities, simply being a friend
What sort of support will I receive from the agency?
Generally, you, the parent and child will have monthly contact with your Match Support Specialist to make sure things are going well with you and your Little Brother or Little Sister. If you should ever have a question, concern or need advice, and your Match Support Specialist isn't available, you may call the Program Director at the office. Our staff is always available to encourage your relationship in any way we can.
How intrusive is the background check?
Not really. Parents entrust their children to us and rely upon our judgment to ensure that the child will be safe when they spend time with a volunteer. Because our program encourages adults to spend unsupervised time with their Little Brothers and Little Sisters, we need to take precautions to ensure the child's safety. Don't worry, all information we collect remains in total confidence.
Will a police record automatically disqualify me?
Not necessarily. Describe the situation to the Enrollment and Match Specialist and s/he can advise you further. We have had people who have had problems with the law at some point in their lives who have gone on to become good volunteers. The only thing that will automatically disqualify a volunteer is any crime against a child.
Can past drug and alcohol problems disqualify me?
No. We do require that volunteers complete 18 months of sobriety before they can be accepted as Big Brothers or Big Sisters. If you have been arrested in the last year for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you must complete a chemical dependency assessment before you could be considered as a volunteer.
