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Eligibility and Enrollment
"It is hard to pinpoint any one miraculous thing that you have done for my daughter. It's that you have always been there."
- Joann, mother, talking about her daughter's Big Sister
Enrolling your child in Big Brothers Big Sisters is one of the most rewarding family experiences for parents, guardians and children. Our mentoring programs provide sincere, safe and fun role-model for your child. Girls and boys can be referred to our program by their parent or legal guardian. Daughters that live with their moms are also eligible for our program. A Big Sister or Big Brother is another positive adult figure in your child's life who can support, encourage and inspire life-dreams.
To qualify for our program a child must :
- Be 6 through 18 years of age
- Boys must demonstrate a need for a male role model and girls must demonstrate a need for an additional female role model.
- Have a need for an adult friend to offer guidance and support
- Be available to meet with a "Big" between 2-4 times per month for at least 6 months
- Want to have a Big Brother or Big Sister - our program is voluntary, so everyone's support is needed
The Volunteer that will be matched to your child must:
- Submit an application, including three references
- Receive a fingerprint clearance card
- Complete an in-person interview
- Clear a driving record check
- Be at least 18 years old (unless part of our High School Mentoring Program)
Program Information
Volunteers and children are asked to make at least a 6 month commitment to the program, though we hope the friendship lasts much longer. Volunteers can match to a child one-to-one, as a couple or as a family match. If you are interested in more information about the match your child can have with Big Brothers Big Sisters, please let us know. Our program is offered free of charge, however for events that your child participates in with his or her Big, we ask that you pay your child's way (ie: movie tickets, zoo entrance fee etc).
Waiting Period
Throughout the Valley, Big Brothers Big Sisters is in constant need of more volunteers, especially Big Brothers. Due to this, most of the boys referred to our program will be placed on a waiting list. Though we hope the time they wait is short, it can be a year or more (especially in the West Valley and Southern Phoenix). Girls generally do not have to be placed on the waiting list.
Activities
Your child will be able to participate in many fun activities once they are matched with their Big. They will do things together as a match and may also attend some agency events. Some examples of outings are: going to the movies, playing sports, working on homework, going to a park or just hanging out. Ideas for outings come from both the Big and the Little and are always cleared with the parent/guardian.
To enroll your child in Maricopa, Gila or Pinal County, or for more information about the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program, please call (602) 264-BIGS (2447) or toll free (888) 245-BIGS (2447).
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