Become a Big

Being a “Big” is easy and fun and you can complete most of the application process online.   The application process helps us get to know you and prepares us to find the right prospective Littles for you.

The application process includes:

• Attending an orientation and completing application paperwork.   Paperwork can be completed online.
• A written interview, which can be completed online.
• Three personal references and one employer reference (if employed).
• A background check.
• A one-to-one visit with your Case Manager in your home.

Steps to becoming a Big:

• Complete your online application.     The application will ask you to provide some basic information about yourself and contact information for three personal references and an employer reference (if you’re employed).   In addition, the application will ask you some basic information about your auto insurance.  Start by clicking "application" in the column to the left.
• Attend a Volunteer Orientation.     A Volunteer Orientation will answer your questions and help prepare you to get the most from your volunteer experience. 
• Take the online interview.      You’ll complete a written interview, which can be completed online at your convenience.   At your orientation, a username and password will be provided to you.  You’ll then be able to logon to the Website and access the interview.  Please note: your username and password are valid for seven days after your orientation.  If you need more time to complete your interview, call our office and we’ll be glad to help you.    Once you logon, you will find an interview that asks a broad range of questions.  This interview must be completed in one session.  
• Home Visit.     The Home Visit is the best opportunity for you and your Case Manager to talk and make sure you are ready to volunteer.   The visit lasts about an hour and is very relaxed and friendly.  Our goal is to answer your questions, gather a little more information about you and your preferences, and prepare your Case Manager to select potential Littles for you.  Your Case Manager will also ensure your home is a safe place for a child to visit.
• Matching Process.  After you’ve received your acceptance letter, your Case Manager will begin searching for prospective Littles for you.   Many things determine a good match and Case Managers do an excellent job of selecting Littles based on common interests and other measures that are important to you and the Littles.
• Choosing your Little.     Once your Case Manager has identified potential Littles for you, he or she will contact you and go over their profiles.   Take your time, ask questions and choose a Little who seems to be a good match.    After you chose your Little, your Case Manager will call the parent or guardian of the child you select and confirm the match. 
• Teaming.  It’s time to meet your Little!   Most volunteers say this is an exciting moment and some tell us they feel a little nervous.  That’s natural!  The Littles are excited, too and your Case Manager will be with you to make introductions, go over some ground rules, and help “break the ice.”  After introductions and a little final paperwork, you and your Little will take off for your first outing, which is usually a short activity to help begin your friendship.  Your Case Manager will help with ideas if you need them.
• You are matched.     Once you are matched, you and your Little will meet weekly and choose how you’ll spend your time together.   Remember – our program is based on the sharing of simple, everyday moments.  You don’t have to invent elaborate or expensive outings.  Simply spend time with your Little on a regular basis and watch your friendship grow.  Your Case Manager will be in contact with you throughout the life of your match and will help ensure you and your Little are enjoying your friendship.  Your Case Manager will also inform you about free tickets, special events and other BBBS activities.
• Have fun!   This program is flexible and allows you and your Little to grow your own unique friendship.   Sharing a little of yourself with a child is one of the most rewarding things you can do.  Be proud of yourself for making this commitment!  Enjoy how good it feels to be Big!