Get A Big FAQs
Have questions about how mentoring works?
Our FAQ page answers the most common questions from parents and guardians. Learn about safety, the matching process, program options, and how mentoring can positively impact your child’s growth and confidence.
Bigs are at least 18 years old and want to make a difference in the life of a child. These mentors are friends, role models, advocates, and someone to stand with children as they realize their full potential.
Child safety, match consistency, and positive outcomes are our top priority. The application process for Bigs includes: application, confirmation of identity via social security number and driver’s license, criminal history background check, driving record check, auto insurance verification, personal/family references, an extensive interview, a home assessment, and ongoing volunteer training and support.
The role of a family is very important: supporting the friendship, encouraging communication, developing your own relationship with the Big, and being responsive to BBBS staff once your child is matched are all essential.
Our team will learn more about both the Big and the Little at the interview, and that will help us prepare for the matching process. Matches are made based on many factors. Our professional Enrollment and Matching team looks for Bigs that they think will be a good fit based on where they live or attend school, personality and interests, life experiences, and academic and career interests.
That’s when the fun begins! Matches meet 2-4 times a month and stay in touch in between. Bigs and Littles choose when they hang out together and what they do (with parent permission for any community outings, of course). You and your child will have a dedicated professional staff member throughout your child’s Match that will monitor the Match and offer resources for you and your family.
We ask for a minimum commitment of one year for each Match we make. That is often not the end, though – many of our friendships end up lasting a lifetime!
All BBBS programs are free of charge to families.
Big Duos are a pair of Bigs who are relatives, spouses/significant others, friends, co-workers, or roommates who want to be matched together to mentor the same Little. The benefit of a Big Duo is that both Bigs have the option of meeting one-on-one with their Little OR all three can get together. Our Big Duos love the flexibility this gives their Match!
We do everything in our power to make a match that we think will last. However, we realize that sometimes things come up – Bigs or Little move, situations change, or something doesn’t work out. We will attempt to mediate the situation, but if it doesn’t work out, we will end the match. If this happens, your Program Specialist will be there to support you every step of the way and handle it in the best way possible.