FAQ's | Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Carolinas

WHO ARE OUR BIGS?

In our Community-based program, Bigs are at least 21 years old and want to make a difference in the life of a child. These mentors are friends, role models, advocates and someone to stand with children as they realize their full potential.

HOW ARE BIGS SCREENED AND TRAINED?

We get it. We’re moms and dads, too. That’s why child safety is our top priority. We have rigorous child protection systems in place to keep kids safe. Our staff and volunteer Bigs undergo thorough screening and background checks.

Child safety, match consistency and positive outcomes are our top priority. The application process includes an application, confirmation of identity via social security number and driver’s license, criminal history background check, driving record check, auto insurance verification, personal/family references, an extensive online interview, and ongoing volunteer training and support.

WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE FAMILY?

The role of a family is very important: supporting the friendship, encouraging communication, developing your own relationship with the Big and being responsive to BBBS staff once your child is matched are all essential.

HOW DOES BBBS CHOOSE A BIG FOR MY CHILD?

Our team will learn more about both the Big and the Little through the interview which will help us prepare for the matching process. Matches are made based on many factors. Our professional enrollment and matching team look for Bigs that they think will be a good fit based on where you live, personality and interests, life experiences, academic and career interests, etc.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER MY CHILD IS MATCHED TO A BIG?

That’s when the fun begins! Matches meet 2-3 times a month and stay in touch in between. Bigs and Littles choose when they hang out together and what they do (with parents’ permission, of course). You and your child will have a dedicated professional staff member throughout your child’s match that will monitor the Match and offer resources for you and your family. Once the Match is made, you remain closely involved in many ways, including:

Approving activities and outings for your child and their Big
Asking your child questions about those outings, and sharing what you learn with the agency staff
Reporting your child’s progress and milestones to the agency on a regular basis (Big Brothers Big Sisters will contact you, but we welcome your feedback any time)
Participating in training on child safety offered by Big Brothers Big Sisters staff, and communicating with your child about the training he or she receives.

HOW LONG WILL MY CHILD BE MATCHED?

We ask for a minimum commitment of one year. Matches can remain active with BBBS until your child graduates from High School or completes our Big Futures Program.

WHAT IS THE COST OF THE PROGRAM?

The BBBS program is free of charge to families and Bigs. We do ask that the parent/guardian provide some spending money for outings.

WHAT IF IT DOESN’T WORK OUT?

We do everything in our power to make a Match that we think will last. However, we realize that sometimes things come up — Bigs or Littles move, situations change, or something doesn’t work out. We will attempt to mediate the situation, but if it doesn’t work out, we will end the Match. If this happens, your match support specialist will be there to support you every step of the way and handle it in the best way possible.