Ordinary time + Ordinary people + Ordinary activities = Extraordinary Results

Community-based mentoring relationships involve safe, compassionate, volunteer "Bigs" getting together with their high potential "Littles" 2+ times each month for one-on-one outings and activities.  We ask that mentors plan  free or reduced-cost acvities recognizing that it is the ordinary time together that truly matters.  Activities often involve:

• Taking a walk in the park
• Playing games or sports
• Going to museum or library
• Fishing or canoeing
• Going to the beach
• Working out
• Cooking or grilling out
• Doing arts and crafts
• Going to an event hosted by the local BBBS affiliate
• Listening to music
• Hanging out and talking

Some Bigs meet their Littles on the weekends. Others get together with their Littles on weekday evenings. Each match is unique and develops a schedule that works for them.

Future Community-Based Mentors/Bigs:  CLICK HERE

Future Community-Based Mentees/Littles: CLICK HERE

Role models make an impact

Studies show that children who have role models are more likely to improve in school and in their relationships with family and friends, and less likely to skip school or use illegal drugs or alcohol. Students who are successful in school are less likely to drop out, abuse drugs, or commit crimes.

The simple truth is: the more positive examples, education or opportunities young people have in their lives, the more chances they have to succeed in today's world as providers, protectors and mentors to their own children and community.

Community-based mentoring is the traditional Big Brothers Big Sisters relationship, where Bigs and Littles get together on their own to share fun activities they both enjoy. Bigs are first introduced to the child and parent or guardian in a pre-match meeting, which is set by the case manager who is always on hand and will be there to help during the match. Bigs and Littles plan the outings together based on mutual interests and to help the child achieve greater self-confidence and awareness.

The Community-based program allows a great deal of flexibility in meeting at the time, place and frequency that meets the schedules of the Big and Little. On average, this is generally twice a month, for two or three hours at a time. There's almost no one so busy that they can't find a way to fit in a few hours a month.

Getting together is a great time for both the Big and the Little. It doesn't require a special occasion or expensive activities. Additionally, there are numerous agency-sponsored events offered to our Bigs and Littles throughout the year such as picnics, fishing or tickets to sports or other cultural events.

National and local studies show that children who have role models are more likely to improve in school and in their relationships with family and friends, and less likely to skip school or use illegal drugs or alcohol. Students who are successful in school are less likely to drop out, abuse drugs or commit crimes. In fact, the success of children enrolled in Big Brothers Big Sisters was proven in a nationwide randomized study.