Programs

In the Community Based programs, the Big Brother or Big Sister spends a consistent amount of tmie (3-5 hours) each week for at least one calendar year with the Little Brother or Littlwe Sister to do activities that they both enjoy. Since the Big Brother and Big Sister volunteers are positive role models, a well-developed and trusted relationship with a 'Big' can boost a child's self-confidence, school grades and social interactions.

Once a child has been accepted into the Community Based program, he or she will onto the ready-to-be-matched, Waiting Littles list and the Big Brothers Big Sisters staff will search for the right Big Brother or Big Sister. The parent is contacted as soon as a Big volunteer is found to be suitable for a match.

While on the Waiting Littles list, and depending on the age of the child, he/she will belong to the Fun Bunch (ages 5-12) or Club 13 (ages 13-18) and will be invited to various Waiting Littles activities. The Big Brothers Big Sisters department often partners with community service organizations, clubs, fraternities/sororities or church groups as sposors so that these activities are free to the children.

For information or questions about the program or to sponsor an activity for the Community Based program, please contact Karen at 815.758.8616.

The School Based Mentoring program is currently "on hold." For information or questions, please contact Karen at 815.758.8616.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is a donor supported progam and is able to offer qualitiy service at no cost to the volunteer or to the families because of funding through private contributions, donations foundations, United Way agencies and fundraisers such as Bowl For Kids' Sake.  All supporters help bring a positive role model to children who need and want one. Please click donate for more information about how to make a donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters or contact Karen at 815.758.8616.