Think about a child who has wished for a Big Brother or Big Sister. Someone to have fun with and confide in. Someone to be a mentor. A guide. A friend.
Big Brothers Big Sisters matches children ages 6 through 18 with mentors in professionally supported one-to-one relationships. We have programs in communities across the country — including yours.
Big Brother Tony Haske of Lake Forest and his 15-year-old Little Brother, Michael, rode on Honda’s Rose Parade float, “Ship of Dreams,” during the 121st Rose Parade on New Year’s Day.
Tony’s father served as a Big Brother as well; Michael’s father died of cancer when Michael was age 3. The pair has been matched for two years and enjoy baseball, camping and hiking. With Tony’s positive influence, Michael has shown improvement in school and has grown more independent, recently starting a part-time job. Tony and Michael have formed a strong friendship and both know that they will be life-long friends.
Matches come together through our two essential programs:
Community-based Mentoring : For as little as an hour a week, Bigs and Littles meet in their community to share fun activities … stories … and a little bit of themselves.
Site-based Mentoring : Bigs and Littles meet once a week in schools, libraries and community centers, to talk and have fun. It’s not about being a tutor … it’s about being a friend.
How a Big becomes a Big (and a Little a Little)
A lot of things have to happen before we make a match. All our Bigs go through a thorough background check and careful interview process. Then we match Bigs and Littles based on location, personalities and preferences. And we provide full support along the way — so that matches can grow into lasting friendships.
What Bigs and Littles Do
Getting together is a great time for both Bigs and Littles. It doesn’t require a special occasion or expensive activities; just a few hours every month sharing simple things you already enjoy with a young person. Things like….
Shooting hoops
Playing a board game
Sharing a pizza
Taking a walk in the park
Or just hanging out and talking
Big Brothers Big Sisters matches adult mentors with children in need. New donors and volunteers, particularly male volunteers, are always needed. Visit www.bigbrooc.org or call (714) 544-7773.
