Community Programs Main Page After-School Mentoring Lunch-Time Mentoring Community-Based Mentoring Referring a Child to BBBS
	High School Big Brothers and Big Sisters represent the single fastest growing volunteer force in Big Brothers Big Sisters all over the county. This program was developed in 1979 in New York. In 2002 40,000 high school students volunteered to make a lifelong contribution to a younger child. How does it work? High school students (Bigs) are recruited, screened and trained by the professional staff from Big Brothers Big Sisters to mentor an elementary or middle school age student (Little). The Bigs meet with their Little Brother or Little Sister once a week at the designated time at the Littles' school. Together they work on homework, read books, play sports or board game, and talk about things that are important to the Little. Each program has about 20 mentoring relationships, matches, which meet at the same time. This provides an opportunity for group games and activities. What's expected from a volunteer? You don't need experience, or special skills you just need to be yourself and ready to be a friend to a youth. What is expected is that you spend time with your Little consistently. Big Brothers Big Sisters staff members will be there each week to provide you with the support and guidance you need to reach your highest level of success. Benefits for Bigs: Enjoy the pleasure and fun of interacting with a younger child Gain exposure to careers in working with youth, education, recreation, different cultures and languages and social service sector New friendships with other students who volunteer Perhaps earn Service-learning credits or for your college application Learn new skills, leadership, commitment, and gain an appreciation for diversity Understanding the satisfaction one can derive from providing service Benefits to the Littles: Extra time and attention on a one-to-one basis Gain a new friend to look up to and emulate Exposure to new games, books and other resources and activities Improved success at school, improved relationships with family and peers Enhanced confidence, competence and caring that will last a lifetime How can Bigs volunteer? Talk with your school social worker to see if your school has an established program that you may join. If they do you may request an application from the school or contact Big Brothers Big Sisters for an application at 815-385-3855 or info@bbbsmchenry.org Or If your school does not have an established program we will be happy to have you join another program or work with you and your school to establish a program. To start the enrollment process contact Big Brothers Big Sisters at 815-385-3855 or info@bbbsmchenry.org Or Start the screening process by completing the online inquiry or download the After-School Mentor Application in PDF format. How can Littles enroll? Parents contact your child's school to see if they are currently offering the program. Inform them that you would be interested in enrolling your student or contact Big Brothers Big Sisters at 815-385-3855 or info@bbbsmchenry.org
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