Volunteering is fun!
Being a Big Brother or Big Sister is one of the most rewarding and enjoyable things you will ever do.
It's easy, too
Your Little can join you for the kinds of activities you already like to do, such as:
- Shooting hoops
- Playing a board game
- Sharing a pizza
- Taking a walk in the park
- Or just hanging out and talking
Getting together just 2-4 times a month can change a young person's life!
Growing up is hard work! Children today face problems we never dreamed of when we were young. A Big Brother or a Big Sister can make the difference as to whether or not a child succeeds in developing the self-esteem and the confidence necessary to grow into a healthy, productive adult.
What is a Big Brother/Big Sister?
A Big Brother or a Big Sister can share in activities that friends enjoy: fishing, going to the park, baking cookies, bicycling, seeing a movie or just talking. The result? A child's self-esteem increases through the knowledge that a non-related adult genuinely cares for them.
Who can take part in the program?
Any child between the ages of 6 and 14 who has a need for a positive role model, and any volunteer age 18 or older, is eligible for consideration in the program. If you are between the ages of 15-18, you are eligible to volunteer in our After-School Programs. (Read more about our programs)
How is a "match" made?
Matches are based on several criteria including common interests, the needs of a child, geographic location and the preferences of the volunteer, parent and child. Once a "Match" is made, a professional case manager is there to provide the support necessary to help the "Match" grow and mature. The case manager keeps in regular contact with all parties to ensure that the match is a positive experience.
What are the benefits from a "match"?
A recent study conducted by Public / Private Ventures, a Philadelphia research firm, found that Little Brothers and Little Sisters who met with their "Bigs" on a regular basis were 46% less likely to start using illegal drugs and 52% less likely to skip a day of school than their peers. The study also shows the positive impact mentoring can have in developing the assets youth need in meeting the social, emotional and academic challenges of childhood and adolescence. For the adult, it is a chance to reconnect with one's youth, to share good times and friendship, and to make a positive difference in the life of a child.
What do I need to do to get involved?
Involvement begins with a desire to develop a friendship with a child through consistent contact. Adult volunteers - Individuals or Couples: Big Brothers and Big Sisters are needed throughout McHenry County. A minimum one-year commitment is required for most matches. To volunteer, fill out the application online or call the Big Brothers Big Sisters office in McHenry at 815.385.3855. Children: A child can be referred by a family member, a community agency or a counselor. To refer a child to the program, call the Big Brothers Big Sisters office in McHenry at 815.385.3855.
How is the program funded?
Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County is a not-for-profit agency. All funding is provided by individual, organizational and corporate donations, foundations, government contracts, the United Way of McHenry County, Mental Health Resource League, special projects and events such as Bowl for Kids' Sake, Golf, and our annual Fall Benefit, as well as other fund raisers, private donations and grants.
You've been thinking about getting involved. Now you know how easy it is and how much your help is needed. Why not apply to be a Big today?
Helping in other ways
We need volunteers to help us in other ways, too. Depending upon your interests and experience, you may find fulfillment in helping us with public relations, volunteer recruitment, administrative and clerical tasks, and fundraising events. There is a volunteer job especially for you at Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County. For more information, please fill out this form.
Serve on the board
Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County attributes much of its success to the vision, leadership and dedication of its Board of Directors. These active, caring individuals work as a body to define and articulate the vision and goals of our agency, and ensure that its programs, services and plans are effectively implemented.
Our Board of Directors is responsible for ensuring the financial health and outlook of the agency, creating policies and frameworks for program success, and defining and implementing initiatives designed to win friends and funds in support of our mission.
Recruiting community members to serve on our Board is an important, continuous process. If you are looking for a meaningful way to demonstrate your caring and concern for youth, Board service may be the right choice for you.
A three year commitment of your time and energy, and a personal willingness to contribute to our financial success are the primary requirements for Board service.
For more information about serving on our Board of Directors, please fill out this form.
Do Committee Work
The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County comes alive through the efforts of volunteer committee members. Our agency's committees include Golf, Bowl for Kids' Sake and Fall Benefit Dinner and Auction. Our committees are responsible for defining goals and strategies in these applicable areas, and working to fulfill plans resulting from these efforts. For more information about serving on a committee,complete this form.
