Frequently Asked Questions
Community Based Mentoring
What is a Community Based Big Brother, Big Sister or Big Couple?
Big Brothers, Big Sisters and Big Couples ("Bigs") are friends. It's that simple. Bigs are volunteers matched in one-to-one friendships with children. It's a tried-and-true concept that turns a few hours a week into a friendship that can change a child's life...and yours!
How much time will I spend with my?
Bigs and Littles meet once each week whenever it’s convenient. We ask for a 12 month commitment, but like many good relationships, some Big and Little friendships last much longer. And some even last a lifetime.
What special skills do I need to have to be a Big?
No special skills are required to be a Big. Caring adults who can provide consistent contact and who complete our acceptance process are qualified to be Bigs. We do require volunteers to be at least 19 years of age and able to provide reliable transportation and proof of auto insurance.
How do Little get involved in the program?
Most Littles are referred to our program by their parents; others are referred by teachers or school counselors. Every child in our program has expressed a wish to be matched with a Big. Our Littles truly want and need caring adults in their lives.
How are Bigs and Littles matched?
Matches are based on several criteria including location, shared interests and other measures of compatibility. Bigs are always given the first chance to accept a particular match.
What will I do with my Little?
Bigs and Littles enjoy all kinds of activities, depending upon their shared interests and goals. We ask our Bigs to include their Littles in their everyday lives. This means that Bigs and Littles do "ordinary" things like running errands, shopping and sharing meals. The cornerstone of our program is one-to-one contact, with time to talk, share and just hang out. BBBS also offers some free activities and parties for our matches.
Does the BBBS program really make a diference?
As a Big, you can be assured that the time and energy you invest in the relationship with your "Little" will make a big difference. Children in our program make better, healthier choices for themselves. As a Big, you'll enjoy the personal fulfillment that comes from building and nurturing a special one-on-one relationship. You'll have the opportunity to listen to your Little's ideas and questions and to share your knowledge and experiences. You'll enjoy how good it feels to be an important part of a child's life.
How old are the children?
The children in our program who are ready to be matched are 7 to 14 years old. Once they are matched, they can stay in the program until they turn 18 or graduate from high school.
Is there an age limit on Bigs?
Bigs need to be at least 19 years old. And you’re never “too old” to become a Big! Our volunteers come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re married, single, just starting out or an empty-nester, consider including a child in your life once a week.
After I make the decision to become a Big, what happens?
New volunteers complete an application, a written interview and a home visit. A member of our professional staff will be your guide through the process and provide individualized attention, training and on-going support.
What support am I provided as a Big?
Every Big is matched with a professional Case Manager who provides on-going support, supervision, training and guidance. We’ll also provide a quarterly newsletter, activity ideas, free tickets to special events and invitations to our parties and events.
Does it cost anything to be a Big?
It doesn’t cost a thing to become a Big. Our agency pays the cost to recruit, screen, match and support our volunteers. The most important thing you can give your Little is time and attention. You may choose to do “extra” things like see movies or attend events. But the kids have a lot of fun doing “everyday” things that don’t cost a thing – washing the car, making cookies, playing games, and just hanging out are favorite activities.
I can’t become a Big right now. How can I help BBBS?
There are many ways to help BBBS. You can make a financial contribution, volunteer at a special event, invite us to speak at your work or church or simply tell a friend about BBBS.
How do I get started?
Apply to become a Big online and/or contact us at 660.429.1991 and we will provide the information you need to make a decision about volunteering.
School Based Mentoring
What is a School Based Big Brother, Big Sister or Big Couple?
Big Brothers and Big Sisters ("Bigs") are friends. It's that simple. Bigs are volunteers matched in one-to-one friendships with children. It's a tried-and-true concept that turns a an hour a week into a friendship that can change a child's life...and yours!
How much time will I spend with my?
Bigs and Littles meet once each week on a day that is convenient curing the child's lunch hour. We ask for a 12 month commitment, but like many good relationships, some Big and Little friendships last much longer. And some even last a lifetime.
What special skills do I need to have to be a Big?
No special skills are required to be a Big. Caring adults who can provide consistent contact and who complete our acceptance process are qualified to be Bigs. We do require volunteers to be at least 16 years of age and able to provide reliable transportation and proof of auto insurance.
How do Little get involved in the program?
Most Littles are referred to our program by their parents; others are referred by teachers or school counselors. Every child in our program has expressed a wish to be matched with a Big. Our Littles truly want and need caring adults in their lives.
What will I do with my Little?
Bigs and Littles enjoy all kinds of activities, depending upon their shared interests and goals. The cornerstone of our program is one-to-one contact, with time to talk, share and just hang out.
Does the BBBS program really make a diference?
As a Big, you can be assured that the time and energy you invest in the relationship with your "Little" will make a big difference. Children in our program make better, healthier choices for themselves. As a Big, you'll enjoy the personal fulfillment that comes from building and nurturing a special one-on-one relationship. You'll have the opportunity to listen to your Little's ideas and questions and to share your knowledge and experiences. You'll enjoy how good it feels to be an important part of a child's life.
Where are the children located?
The children in our program are enrolled in Martin Warren, Ridge View and Sterling Elementary Schools in Warrensburg.
Is there an age limit on Bigs?
Bigs need to be at least 16 years old. And you’re never “too old” to become a Big! Our volunteers come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re married, single, just starting out or an empty-nester, consider including a child in your life once a week.
After I make the decision to become a Big, what happens?
New volunteers complete an application and a written interview. A member of our professional staff will be your guide through the process and provide individualized attention, training and on-going support.
What support am I provided as a Big?
Every Big is matched with a professional Case Manager who provides on-going support, supervision, training and guidance. We’ll also provide a quarterly newsletter, activity ideas, and invitations to our parties and events.
Does it cost anything to be a Big?
It doesn’t cost a thing to become a Big. Our agency pays the cost to recruit, screen, match and support our volunteers. The most important thing you can give your Little is time and attention.
I can’t become a Big right now. How can I help BBBS?
There are many ways to help BBBS. You can make a financial contribution, volunteer at a special event, invite us to speak at your work or church or simply tell a friend about BBBS.
How do I get started?
Apply to become a Big online and/or contact us at 660.429.1991 and we will provide the information you need to make a decision about volunteering.
