FAQs
The children of Big Brothers Big Sisters:
How do children come into the program?
Children and their parents or guardians may hear about BBBS from a teacher, a counselor, their church, another parent, a friend, commercials, etc. All children and their parents choose to be in our program and we strive to reach the children who can benefit from a positive role model in their life.
Who are the children in the program?
Our Littles come from many types of home environments and family structures, different socio-economic levels, ethnic backgrounds and neighborhoods and schools across all communities. We have boys and girls in our program. We try to match Bigs with Littles of the same sex and same ethnicity whenever we can - currently African American and Hispanic male volunteers are our greatest need. Our Littles' backgrounds and personalities are unique, but the thing they all share in common is a need for friendship with a caring adult.
What it's like to be a Big:
Who are the Bigs in the program?
Our Bigs come from diverse backgrounds just like our Littles. They are regular people, just like you. You don't need any special degrees or special skills. You just have to want to make a positive impact on a young person in need. What you have or haven't accomplished isn't an issue. Role models come in all shapes and sizes, and you could be a perfect fit!
When can I see my Little?
You are required to spend time with your Little at least twice per month if you are doing Community-based Mentoring and one hour per week for School-based Mentoring. Our Bigs and Littles decide together what they want to do and they get parent approval. We recommend that you keep a consistent schedule of outings and that you see each other on a regular basis. Until your relationship is established, the outings will also depend on the comfort level of your Little's parents, your Little and you.
How much money should I spend?
We don't encourage spending a lot of money on your outings. The goal of the relationship is friendship. You should focus your time on getting to know each other. We encourage you to seek out free or low-cost activities, especially in the beginning. Shoot hoops at a local park, play a game together, or share that pizza that you were going to have for lunch anyway.
Also, take part in the group activities that the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the YMCA of Rock River Valley offers. They are a great way to meet other Bigs and Littles. You may also receive notices for free tickets for your match to attend a variety of cultural and sports activities, like a Rockford Riverhawks game or Carlson Ice Arena event.
What are some good ideas for outings with my Little?
Share an activity that gives you something in common to talk about. Buy a comic book to read to each other. Play a board game. Hit a bucket of balls at the driving range. Take a ride in the car with the radio on and talk about the music you like. You want to select activities that give each of you a chance to learn more about one another. For children, playing can be learning. Most important: keep it simple and enjoy yourselves!
Can I bring my spouse/friend/family member on outings?
In the beginning it is important for you and your Little to get to know each other. This can happen best on a one-to-one basis. Over time it is also valuable for your Little to get to know the people who are important to you. Keep in mind that if you're spending lots of time with others your Little may begin to feel jealous or neglected. Remember that the main focus is the friendship YOU have with your Little.
What kind of support can I expect from BBBS once I get matched?
Once you are matched with your Little our Case Manager will be in regular contact with you to provide assistance and give feedback. Anytime you are unsure about what to do or how to handle a situation, our Case Manager is here to help. You'll receive ideas for activities, guidance for handling possible difficult situations, and feedback on how you are making a difference, just by showing up!
You will be joining over 240,000 other volunteers in the BBBS family!
Donating to Big Brothers Big Sisters:
How do I make a donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters?
To donate by mail, please send check or money order to:
Big Brothers Big Sisters
200 Y Blvd.
Rockford, IL 61107
Contact Executive Director Lisa Ramsby at 815-489-1133 to discuss other donation options.
Where does Big Brothers Big Sisters get its funding from?
BBBS is a non-profit organization supported by funds from generous donors including individuals, federal, state and local government, foundations and corporations.
How is my donation used? (Where does my money go?)
Your donation will support the BBBS of Rock River Valley. As a professional mentoring organization, BBBS requires resources to maintain a well-trained staff to screen volunteers, make matches, and support relationships between Bigs and Littles -- to achieve the kind of success that shows proven results.
For More Information:
To read more about the program in general, visit our national website at www.bbbs.org.
For more local info contact the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the YMCA of Rock River Valley at 815-489-1133.
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