OUR PROGRAMS

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the YMCA of Rock River Valley serves children from Boone and Winnebago counties.

Community-Based Mentoring:

• Volunteers are matched with a child between the ages of 6 and 12, based on similar interests
• Volunteer and the child meet at a time and location convenient to both, a minimum of twice a month
• Possible activities include going to the park, a movie, the YMCA, anything that interests both of you
• Contact is maintained on a weekly basis (Volunteers call the child on the phone in between match visits)
• For this program we ask for a commitment of one year from the time you are accepted
• Volunteer must be 18 years old or older

School- Based Mentoring:

• Volunteers are matched with a child in elementary school grades K through 5th
• Volunteer meets the child once a week after school for a minimum of one hour
• All meetings take place at the school, with optional meetings taking place during the summer
• Volunteers help the child with homework, play games, go in the gym or outside, or just hang out and talk
• For this program we ask for a commitment of one academic year, late August to early June
• Volunteer must be 16 years or older

RAISE- Reaching And Inspiring Students for Education:

• This program aims to increase access to and success in post secondary education for first generation college students in the Rockford Public School District
• Students attend weekly sessions, which prepare them for applying and being accepted into college
• Volunteers are matched with a Junior or Senior at Jefferson High School
• Volunteers meet with Students a minimum of twice a month to provide support and guidance
• For this program we ask Volunteers to support the Student through the application process, and into the initial semesters of college
• Volunteer must have a bachelors degree in any field

YOU become a BIG deal in the life of your Little!

For More Information Contact:
Lisa Ramsby at 815-489-1133 or email at lramsby@rockfordymca.org