Who are the Bigs in the Program? 

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

When does my child see their Big?

As a Big/Little team, they decide together what they want to do with Parent/Guardian approval. We recommend the match keeps a consistent schedule of outings and get together regularly. We require the match to spend a minimum of 4 to 6 hours a month for one year.  

What are good ideas for outings? 

The quality of the time is more important than the amount of money spent. Play a board game. Go to the library. Make fun crafts. Take a hike up Sugarloaf. For children, playing can be learning. Most important: keep it simple and have fun! The agency offers donor-supported group activities that are a great way to meet other Bigs and Littles. 

What kind of support can I expect from BBBS once my child's matched? 

Once you're child is matched, 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. 

Will my child's Big become a replacement parent? 

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 and learn from! 

How does BBBS create a match? 

During a thorough intake process, professional staff gets to know the children and volunteers in the programs. BBBS staff makes matches based on personality, shared interests, and volunteer and parent preferences in an effort to make compatible, quality matches that will result in long-term friendships.

How soon will my child be matched? 

Bigs and Littles are matched by where they live, their preferences and activities they enjoy. There is no set time limit to make a match. BBBS asks for everyone’s patience during the waiting period.

What if it doesn't work out? 

We do everything in our power to make matches that last. However, we realize that sometimes situations change or things don’t work out. If this happens we’ll try to mediate and resolve the problem first, but if mediation is unsuccessful we will end the match. Your Match Support Specialist will support you and your child every step of the way, working toward the best possible outcome for everyone.

Can a match last longer than one year? 

Although we ask for a minimum commitment of one year, matches in our program can continue until your child turns 18 and/or graduates high school. But this doesn't have to be the end of their relationship– many friendships between Bigs and Littles last a lifetime.

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