At Big Brothers Big Sister of Central Arizona (BBBSAZ) we offer a ton of ways for you to get involved with our agency. Whatever you choose to do, know that your efforts can truly make a difference in the lives of children and families in our community. Below are 10 of our favorite ways but you are not limited to these options only. If you have an activity or event in mind please reach out to Jessica Whitney, VP of Development and Marketing: jwhitney@bbbsaz.org.
VOLUNTEERING OPTIONS
- Become a Volunteer
Being a Big Brother or Big Sister in our mentoring program is one of the most enjoyable things you’ll ever do. Not to mention, one of the most fulfilling! You have the opportunity to help shape a child’s future for the better just by being yourself. And the best part is, it’s a ton of fun! You and your Little can share the kinds of activities you already like to do….Go on a hike. Read books. Eat pizza with extra pepperoni. Or just give some advice and inspiration. Not only will you both have a blast, but you’ll also be making a positive impact on a Little’s life. To learn more about becoming a Volunteer, visit www.bbbsaz.org/volunteer.
- Enjoy a Service Day with your Company
Big Brothers Big Sisters is working with our favorite local businesses and community groups to collaborate on what we call “Service Days.” We’re inviting you to hold your next meeting at our new office event space in Central Phoenix (16th St & Osborn Rd) to learn more about the work we do and participate in activities such as bike builds or backpack drives. This is a great team-building activity that allows your group to give back to the community in just one day! If you have a great idea or want to learn more about Service Days, please email pphillips@bbbsaz.org.
- Host an Activity, Workshop, or Training for our Matches
We are always looking for opportunities and events for our Matches to attend together and searching for free or low-cost access to attractions, sporting events, educational programs, exclusive experiences, movies, cultural events, and more thanks to the generosity of our partners. If you would like to partner with us or host an event/workshop to make outings more affordable for our Bigs please contact Alma Albarran at aalbarran@bbbsaz.org.
GIVING OPTIONS
- Become a Mentor Circle Monthly Donor
Monthly gifts are powerful, helping BBBSAZ make and sustain successful Matches all year long. Sign up once and know that each month your dollars are helping move our agency forward. Donating $10 a month helps recruit a Big to help us match one of the dozens of the Littles on our waitlist. Donating $25 a month helps make the first meeting between a Big and their new Little a success through proper training for all new Bigs, Littles, and Families. Donating $50 a month helps sustain a match with ongoing professional support and access to resources. All individual gifts made to BBBSAZ qualify for the Arizona State Charitable Tax Credit. To learn more or join our monthly giving program today, please visit https://www.bbbsaz.org/mentor-circle.
- Participate in the Arizona State Charitable Tax Credit
Monetary gifts made to BBBSAZ qualify for a dollar-for-dollar Arizona State Charitable Tax Credit. Redirect your tax dollars (up to $400 for individuals and up to $800 for couples filing jointly) to a cause that is important to you. By donating to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona you are supporting children in our program while reducing your tax liability. Make your gift today!
- Provide In-Kind Donations
BBBSAZ also accepts in-kind donations. An in-kind donation could be a gift card, a gift certificate, or products like coffee mugs, t-shirts, hats, logoed items, etc. These types of in-kind donations help BBBS decrease expenses for things like match events and annual fundraisers. In-kind donations are tax deductible and also bring awareness to companies who are giving back to the community. If you are interested in making a donation please email Holly Erickson, Development and Marketing Assistant: herickson@bbbsaz.org.
CLOTHING OPTIONS
- Donate your Clothing or Small Household Items
Did you know that items from your home can be donated? Here at BBBSAZ, we accept donations of gently used clothing and small household goods. It’s EASY to schedule a home pick-up by utilizing our website https://www.donateaz.org! You can also drop off your donations (clothing only) at one of our donation bins found here: https://www.donateaz.org/content/collectionlocations.
- Host a Clothing Fundraiser
Clothes equal Cash! We have fundraising opportunities for schools, sports teams, churches, and other organizations. This EASY fundraising opportunity is turn-key and promotes team-building and community camaraderie. BBBSAZ will pay your org $0.20 per pound for clothing or $0.05 per pound for small household items to your organization for reusable items. To schedule a clothing fundraiser, please contact David Reynolds at dreynolds@bbbsaz.org.
EVENT OPTIONS
- Sponsor an Event
Ask your company to become a sponsor at one of our annual events! To explore our event options please click here. Events are a great opportunity for company exposure and offers employees a fun team-building space while learning about our programs. To become a sponsor or learn more about event opportunities, please contact Aimee Johnson at ajohnson@bbbsaz.org.
- Host your own Fundraising Event
Hosting an event on behalf of our agency is an amazing way to introduce your friends and family to our mission while raising money to support our programs. There are many restaurants that offer give-back nights to benefit nonprofit organizations. Reach out to your favorite eatery, pick a date, then let us and all of your friends and family know! Restaurants usually give a percentage of the proceeds back to BBBSAZ.
Have kids and want to get them to get involved in philanthropy? Host a bake sale or lemonade stand, and invite your friends and neighbors to donate! Hosting your own event can be easy and fun!!
If you have an idea for an event that you’d like to host, please contact our Events Manager Aimee Johnson: ajohnson@bbbsaz.org.
