Frequently Asked Questions: Bigs in Schools
Big Brothers Big Sisters is now recruiting mentors for the Bigs in Schools program!
BIGS IN SCHOOLS
In this mentoring opportunity, an adult mentor (who we call a “Big”) will meet with their mentee (who we call a “Little”) at their school for 45 minutes, twice per month, for a minimum of one school year.
If you’re interested in being a mentor in the Bigs in Schools program or if you know someone who might be, head to ThinkBigToday.org/volunteer to learn more and sign up!
What are the requirements for Bigs to enroll?
Let’s get you started! Go to ThinkBigToday.org/volunteer and submit your online application.
A BBBS Enrollment Specialist (ES) will contact you to schedule your interview appointment. During the interview, the ES will assess your hobbies, interests, and personality. By the end of the 90-120 minute interview, the ES will have a clear picture of you as a potential Big. You will watch several orientation videos (at your convenience) and attend volunteer training with other new Bigs to set you up for success as a mentor.
You will participate in a series of layered background checks and provide BBBS with a number of references so that our Enrollment Team can determine whether you are a good fit for the program.
What schools participate in the Bigs in Schools program?
Currently, BBBS is partnering with the following schools:
- Plainwell Middle School
- Battle Creek STEM Middle School
- Springfield Middle School
- Battle Creek Central High School
Note that this list is just the beginning; we partner with new schools all the time!
What if I don’t know how to be a mentor?
Your life experience alone is enough knowledge to help you be a great mentor! On top of that, BBBS provides you with training before you meet your Little. Additionally, your match is assigned a Mentoring Relationship Specialist (MRS) who will oversee your match. The MRS provides support and coaching throughout the length of your match. This means that if you have questions, we have answers!
What about during winter/summer vacations?
You will meet exclusively during the school year, at the school, when school is in session. You will not meet with your Little during summer vacation, school breaks, snow days, etc.
How does BBBS decide who I will be matched with?
BBBS practices what we call “intentional matching.” The team makes sure that you and your Little are paired because you have something in common. This commonality will be a foundation upon which to build your friendship, whether that’s a love of sports, animals, nature, theater, computer games, cooking, you name it. This focus and care help to ensure the quality and longevity of your match.
What support will I receive?
Your match will be overseen by your Mentoring Relationship Specialist (MRS.) After two weeks of being matched, the MRS will reach out to you and your Little to see how things are going. After that, the MRS will check in with each of you monthly to complete what we call Match Support. There is also an open invitation for you to reach out to your MRS at any time.
BBBS staff are truly there to help you and your Little build a friendship that helps your Little realize their potential!
What subjects do I need to tutor my Little?
While you meet at your Little’s school during their school day, Bigs are not tutors. BBBS provides an activity kit that includes various board games, card games, and arts & crafts that you and your Little can do together while you are building your friendship.
What are the benefits for youth having a mentor?
Improved social-emotional learning (SEL), tailored goals based on each Little’s needs and desires, having an additional person to empower their potential… the list goes on and on. Plus, it’s super fun!
Is consistency important?
Consistency is critical. Inconsistency can actually be more detrimental to a child than never being matched in the first place. If consistency may be a challenge for you due to work or personal commitments, consider our new “Big Duo” option, which you can read more about below.
What if my employer requires me to travel for work? Can I still be a Big?
Since we know that consistency is important, you may want to identify a work colleague, family member, partner, or friend who will sign up to be a “Big Duo” with you. In this opportunity, you will both mentor the same Little. If one of you is traveling out of town, your partner will meet with your Little one-on-one.
Can I request which school I volunteer at? I want a school that’s in close proximity to my workplace.
Yes. During the interview, you will be asked specific questions regarding which program and/or location you prefer to volunteer.
Ready to take the plunge? Head to ThinkBigToday.org/volunteer to learn more and sign up!
