Mentoring, at its core, guarantees young people that there is someone who cares about them, assures them they are not alone in dealing with day-to-day challenges, and reminds them they are important to us. Research confirms that quality mentoring relationships have powerful positive effects on young people in a variety of personal, academic, and professional situations. Mentoring connects a young person to personal growth and development, and social and economic opportunity. Yet one in three young people will grow up without this critical asset. Are you ready to make a difference and have a positive impact on a child?
Be a Part of Something Bigger Than Yourself
Help Kids Reach Their Potential, One Relationship at a Time
We’re always looking for people eager to positively impact a child and improve their community at the same time. We currently have the greatest need for male mentors, and mentors of color. For a few hours, a couple times a month, you can give a Little the invaluable gift of your friendship. By simply changing their perspective of what the world can offer, you can literally start changing their life. Just as your options are unlimited, so is your Little’s potential.
What is most important is not what you do, but the stability and confidence consistent mentorship brings a child. But don’t just take it from us. Read our Big Impacts match stories of Bigs & Littles for some amazing stories of what it means to be a role model. And if you still have questions, head over to our FAQs for more answers.
Interested in learning more? Just fill out our simple online inquiry form. After you complete it, a Big Brothers Big Sisters staff member will review your information and contact you if we are able to move you to the next step. Due the large numbers of volunteers who inquire and the needs of our community, we are only able to move forward with inquiries that meet the needs and preferences of our waiting Littles.
Volunteer Inquiry
BECOMING A BIG
Step 1: Inquire
Call the BBBS office at (916) 646-9300 and we can answer any questions you may have. We can also discuss next steps like scheduling your interview over the phone or can email you an application to get started.
Step 2: Apply
Complete an application. Be ready to share personal info like your Driver’s License and references: child safety is our highest priority so is an in-depth process. There will be a required training and processing fee.
Step 3: Interview and Training
Let us get to know you. This step allows us to make the best quality match possible based on a variety of factors such as distance, interests, and commonalities. We will then provide you with a training (online or in-person) that will give you an in depth look at the program and role of a Big. This process may take anywhere from 3 – 9 months.
Step 4: Ready To Be Matched
The search begins. Big Brothers Big Sisters will begin to search carefully for the perfect Little for you.
We do this based on your personal interests, goals of both you and your potential Little. We also match within a 10-15 mile radius of where you work or live to ensure that it’s most convenient for you.
We understand that life is busy and want to ensure that we set the match up for the best success.
Step 5: Introductions
Congratulations! It’s time to meet your match! This will be the start of one of the most enjoyable and fulfilling things you do.
Step 6: Match Support
Don’t worry, we’re still here for you! Our professionally trained staff will provide training, guidance, and support every step of the way to ensure the success of the match. We’re proud that the average match length within our Agency is over 3 years!
EMPOWERING POTENTIAL
When you support Big Brothers Big Sisters, you change lives for children in our community.