WHY SHOULD I BECOME A BIG?
DISCOVER FULFILLMENT
Being a Big Brother, Big Sister, or Big Couple 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. The best part, it’s actually a lot of fun. You and your Little can share the kinds of activities you already like to do. The minimum age to be a mentor is 16 years old.
AN OPTION FOR EVERY VOLUNTEER
We know you’re busy. Cool thing is, there’s more than one way to be a mentor. We’ve got three, in fact:
Big Brother or Big Sister
Big Couple
Big Family
And they’re all designed so you can get involved in the way that works best for you. We’ll never leave you on your own. Our staff are trained social services professionals, here to help whenever you need it. You’ll be well-equipped with loads of information, advice, tips, and answers. We’ve also got activity ideas, organized events, and a handy list of discounts to local events and activities available to our Matches.
How do I get matched?
Mentoring Options Include:
It may sound obvious, but sometimes the best place to help a child realize their potential is at school. Kids enjoy having their Bigs meet with them during their lunch period & recess or another designated period that works best in the child’s school day. Matches meet weekly only during the school year, at the child’s school in a space such as the library or a classroom. Bonus, parents know what a positive impact a mentor will make in their child’s life.
What will you do? Some Littles like to talk with their Bigs about class, or do homework, or read together, but it’s perfectly fine to shoot hoops in the gym or play on the playground, to do crafting, play a board game, etc. together. At the end of the day, it's really all about building a friendship, providing guidance and inspiring them to reach their potential.
High school aged mentors or adults with availability during the day during the school year are best suited for this volunteer opportunity! You have a consistent day and time each week you meet with your mentee at their school!
Only individuals may mentor in this option and are asked to commit to at least one academic school year.
Site-Based Mentoring
Matches meet at least twice a month usually during the evenings or weekends at the convenience of both parties. Volunteers coordinate match times and activities directly with the parent.
Time spent together will vary based on the activity, but it’s not about the quantity of time, rather the quality of the time spent together that matters.
Matches get to know each other directly with the help of the parent/guardian, and develop their friendships through various activities they enjoy such as taking a walk, attending sporting events, visiting the library or partaking in a favorite hobby, etc. The possibilities are limitless and flexible.
For this program option, you must be at least 16 years old, have a driver’s license, access to a vehicle, and auto insurance. Volunteers are asked to commit to at least one year as a mentor. Mentors can volunteer as individuals, a couple o family in this option. Volunteers must also work, live or attend school in Washington County, WI!
Community-Based Mentoring
Volunteer Now!