1. What is Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tri-State?

We provide children a significant, one to one relationship with a caring volunteers for the purpose of friendship and guidance.

2. What types of kids are in the program?

Our kids are between the ages of 6-14 and many come from a single parent home.   They come from different socio-economic backgrounds and have personalities that are unique but the one thing they all have in common is that they have a need for friendship from a caring adult.

3. How is Big Brothers Big Sisters different from other support groups and mentoring programs?

The children and their families are assessed by our professional staff to insure that we make the best match possible.   Our Volunteers must also undergo a comprehensive intake process before meeting with a child, and we provide support and supervision to all parties involved.
 

4. Will this take up all my time?

All we ask is that you see the child twice a month for 3-4 hours a visit (although you can see them weekly if time permits).    It's most important that you spend enough time together to allow your relationship to develop and your friendship to grow, so we ask you to make a commitment for at least one year.

5. What qualifies me to be a Big Brother or Big Sister or Big Couple?

Whether you're young or old, married or single, a professional or a homemaker, you can be a Big Brother or Big Sister or Big Couple.  If you are a student at Marshall University you can be a Marshall University Mentor or if you don't have a lot of time to give you could become a School Based Mentor.   You have lots of options! You don't need a teaching or counseling degree or other special training. You don't need a lot of money. All you need are your own personal reasons for wanting to help a child. Maybe you enjoy being with kids. Maybe you want to make a difference with one child...to show him or her what caring means. Maybe you want to make your own life more meaningful. You have much to give, much to share with a child in need of a special friend. No one stands as tall as when he stoops to help a child.

6. What is different about being a Big Couple than a Big Brother or Big Sister?

A "Big Couple", married at least one year are people that decide that they would like to share in the fun and responsibility of being a mentor.   They go through the screening process together can share in the responsibility and fun of being mentors!

7. I'm married but not sure that my spouse will want to volunteer.  Does this mean I can't
be a Big?

We have lots of married volunteers that are participating by themselves!  In these cases you are called a Big Brother or Big Sister instead of a Big Couple!  While spending time with your Little, your spouse will most likely meet your little but since they did not go through the screening process, they are not considered a "Big" and therefore they are not permitted to spend one to one time with the child.  It is for the safety of both you and the child.

8. Will it cost me a lot of money to volunteer?

We actually discourage you from spending a lot of money.  The goal of the relationship is friendship, not the money so spent.  We offer group activities almost every month that are usually free and although not a mandatory part of our program, a great way to meet other Bigs and Littles and have a fun and free activity!  We constantly look for other low price or free things for you to do and we post them in the monthly newsletter that you begin receiving as soon as you are matched.    It's getting to know each other that's truly important. You might as easily enjoy sharing a book, taking a stroll through the park, or tossing a baseball. So, what you spend is really up to you.

9. Can I choose the child I want to work with?

The application and screening process helps us get to know your preferences as well as the situation best suited for you and  we'll help select the right youngster for you. We'll match your personalities, likes and dislikes, ages and backgrounds. But the final decision is yours.

10. What happens if my Little doesn't like me or we have other problems during our match?

All problems have many solutions and you will have a trained and professional Case Manager assigned to your Match that will be available for support or guidance throughout the match relationship.    Keep in mind that you may both be nervous when you first meet so give yourself time to adjust!  Our Littles want to be matched and even if they don't always tell you right off.....they are very excited to have you as a friend!

11.  What if things still don't work out?

Your Case Manager will work with you to get through any minor rough spots or to avoid major problems but we always have to make sure the relationship is  rewarding for both you and the child  Most problems can be resolved but occasionally things don't work out as you would like, and if these hurdles prove too much to overcome, we may terminate the match.
 

12. Are there other ways I can help?

Volunteers are also always needed to help with our fund-raising projects, office help or coordinating or sponsoring Group Activities.  Check out the What's New page frequently to see how you can help.

13. How do I get started?

Contact the office in your area by phone or email and an agency representative will talk with you and get you started with an application!  Just think, a month from now.....you just might have a new friend!