Become a Big Sister
Female Mentors Wanted!
Volunteering is fun! Being a Big Sister is simple and rewarding. It is as easy as showing your new Little Sister how to play a favorite game, bake cookies, or play basketball. We’ve learned that being someone special to a child doesn’t take much more than that. But the impact is huge – for both of you!
Children need the friendship and guidance of someone like YOU.
“This experience has been more than I ever thought it would be. We’ve really grown to trust each other, know each other, confide in one another, give advice. For individuals thinking about being a Big, go for it – you’ll learn more and have more fun than you ever thought you could.”
-Leslie, Big Sister for 6 years
Being a Big will touch your heart. Read our Real Life Stories of Bigs and Littles to give you a glimpse of what it's really like being a BBBSCI mentor.
We’re here to help.
Have a question? Don’t worry. Our trained staff will be happy to guide you through the application process. And when it’s time to make a match, we’ll help you meet a Little in your area who shares your interests, and we’ll support you all the way. We’ll even give you some great ideas for activities that other Bigs and Littles have enjoyed through the years!
Looking for more information right away? Review answers to commonly asked questions in our FAQs.
You’ve been thinking about getting involved. Now you know the importance of volunteering, how easy it is and how much your help is needed. Please apply to be a Big Sister today.
How to Become a Big
Becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister is one of the most rewarding things you can do. And did we mention how much fun you’ll have?
Here are the quick and easy steps to begcoming a big:
1. Decide if you would like to be a Community Based or School Based mentor.
2. Call 515-288-9025 or email Danielle Remily and say “I want to be a Big!”
3. Interview. We will schedule a convenient time for you to meet with a Match Coordinator who will interview you in person.
4. Background Checks. Child safety is our first priority, so we’ll ask your permission to perform background checks (Criminal history check, DOT, and Child Abuse Registry).
5. References. We’ll ask you to provide five references of people we can talk to about your ability to be a mentor.
6. Matching. We will review the waiting Little Brothers and Sisters and find the best fit for you. Depending on your gender and personal preferences, matching may go very quickly or take a little more time. Making the right match is important to our commitment to provide lasting relationships for our children.
Spending Time with Your Little
Once matched, Big Brothers and Big Sisters develop friendships with their Little Brothers and Little Sisters. It doesn’t matter so much what you do, what does matter is the enthusiasm and enjoyment you experience being with your Little Brother or Sister.
Community Based matches meet two times a month for a total of four hours or more, when it's convenient for the Big and Little. Community Based matches enjoy all kinds of activities in the community. They go to museums and sports events, play catch in the park or make dinner together…the list goes on and on, but one thing that never changes is the positive impact you’re making on a child’s life.
School Based Matches meet in the Little Brother or Sister’s school for 30-60 minutes a week. They engage in activities like games, reading, talking or eating lunch together.
We’ll Support Your Friendship
After becoming a Big Brother or Sister, you’re not alone. Each BBBSCI match is supported by professional staff. Match Development Coordinators regularly check in with volunteers, children and parents and are always available to answer questions.
BBBSCI holds regular events, giving matches an opportunity to meet other Bigs and Littles in your area. Plus, through the generosity of our partners and individuals in the community, we often offer free tickets to ball games, the theater and more!
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