ENROLL A CHILD TODAY!
Could your little one use a Big?
As a parent or caregiver, you recognize your child's potential better than anyone. By giving your child the opportunity to be part of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County, you’re starting them down a path to an even brighter, more promising future. Since 1966, we’ve recruited, screened, matched, and supported mentoring relationships that have changed the lives of thousands of young people in our community.
Join us!
PROGRAM BASICS
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
After enrolling in our Community-Based Mentoring Program, Bigs and Littles are thoughtfully matched based on geography (within a 20-minute drive), preferences (gender, race, age, etc.), and shared interests. Once the Match is approved by Big, Little, and parent/caregiver, introductions are made and we’re off!
Matches get together 2-4 times a month for a few hours. Bigs schedule outings directly with Littles and their parent/caregiver, and are responsible for picking up and transporting their Little. Activities vary based on the interests of the Bigs and Littles, so whether it’s frisbee at the park, paint night and ice cream, or a picnic hike, each Match can define what "quality time" looks like for them.
Visit our Programs page to learn more.
REQUIREMENTS FOR LITTLES
• Children ages 6-13 (Matches can stay open until 18, but new Matches are only created for Littles 6-13)
• Live in Dane County
• Parent or caregiver must complete online application process for child
• Committed to meeting with mentor 2-4 times per month
• Connect with Match Support Specialist monthly during the first year and quarterly after a year of being matched
• One-year commitment
REQUIREMENTS FOR BIGS
• 18 years or older
• Live or work in Dane County
• Complete online application process, interview, and references
• Pass a background check
• Valid driver’s license and auto insurance
• Have a reliable car for transporting Little
• Connect with Match Support Specialist monthly during the first year and quarterly after a year of being matched
• One-year commitment
Safety from the start
Your child's safety is extremely important to us. Big Brothers Big Sisters conducts a thorough background check on every volunteer in our program, and every relationship is closely monitored and supported by a professionally trained Match Support Specialist.
Expectations for Caregivers
You know what’s best for your child, so we’ll need your help from the start, providing information about your child’s strengths and needs, and ultimately approving the Big Brother or Big Sister match. But your role doesn’t end there.
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County, we believe that all children and youth deserve to live in a world that makes them feel cared for and protected. A new requirement to having a child participate in our program is that a parent/guardian must complete the "Your Child’s Personal Safety" training offered by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. BBBS has an excellent safety record, and we are providing this training to parents in an effort to increase safety for all children, while they are participating in Big Brothers Big Sisters and in their everyday lives.
You’ll feel the impact as much as your child.
A study for Big Brothers Big Sisters found that kids matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister:
✓ are more confident
✓ are more likely to steer clear of drugs and alcohol
✓ do better in school
✓ get along better with their family and friends
✓ feel better about themselves
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have, we're always happy to help.