VOLUNTEER ENROLLMENT PROCESS

After you’ve browsed our website, learned about our three different mentoring opportunities, and chosen the best program for you, you’re ready to start the process. 

Volunteers must be at least 18 and out of high school to volunteer in the School-based Program, at least 21 years old for the Community-based Program, and mentor2.0 volunteers must be at least 21 years old and have a college degree or equivalent combination of education, training, or experience.

Unsure which program is right for you? Contact us at 414.831.4563 or email us. 

To apply you will need:

• Personal and professional references
• A divers license or other government issued identification
• Auto insurance information (Community-based and mentor2.0 only)
• Social Security Number or equivalent (this can be shared directly with staff after application)
• Authorization to run background checks including your use of electronic media, driving record, and criminal history.

*All of your information is completely confidential.

Our staff will thoroughly review your application, check references, and complete multilayered background checks. Because you’ll be working with a child in a one-to-one setting, it’s important to create a safe environment for both you and the child. We also want to make sure we pair you with a child who best matches your  interests, experience, and personality. For these reasons, our application and screening process is comprehensive and may take longer than expected. Feel free to check the status of your application at any time. 

*Big Brothers Big Sisters does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, color, physical condition, marital status, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, or disability.

Click on the program option that is the best fit for you. Application links below.  
Community-based
mentor2.0
School-based

After receiving your application, a BBBS staff member will send you instructions to schedule and complete your fingerprint background check. BBBS will cover the cost of your fingerprint. BBBS staff will run additional background checks including your use of electronic media, driving record, and a nationwide criminal history check.  

When your application, background checks, and reference checks are completed and approved, we will reach out to schedule your interview.

You will meet with a BBBS staff either virtually or in-person, to discuss your life, family, relationships, interests, experiences, and volunteer expectations. Sometimes you will be asked to complete additional steps in our screening process. Children and families who in enroll in our programs go through a similar process.

All new volunteers are asked to complete Volunteer Pre-match Training. This can be completed as a self-paced online training or in-person facilitated training by BBBS staff. You’ll learn more about your role as a mentor, how to handle situations that may arise during your match, and how BBBS supports you along the way. Training is a great way to learn valuable tips to enhance your volunteer experience. After training is completed your application will be finalized for approval. 

After acceptance and careful consideration, we will contact you once we find a youth that is compatible with you. We’ll tell you a little about their background, interests, and personality. Their parent/guardian will learn similar things about you. If everyone approves the match, we’ll schedule a time for you to meet your new Little Brother or Little Sister.

Meeting your Little for the first time is exciting and you might be a little nervous. Your Little will probably be feeling the exact same way. A BBBS staff will facilitate the introduction and get your match off to a great start!

School-based and mentor2.0 meet for the first time at the partner school.

For Community-based, you will meet your Little and their family and schedule your first outing. We suggest planning low- or no-cost activities for the first few months to set appropriate expectations and put emphasis on building your relationship, not on spending money. There are lots of fun things to do that cost little or no money. We provide activity suggestions at your match meeting, as well as online under Programs: Community-based section.

Our involvement doesn’t end with making your match. You’ll be in regular communication with a BBBS staff. They will be in contact with you, your Little, and your Little’s parent/guardian regularly throughout the duration of your match. Always remember, we’re here to help you in any way we can so don’t hesitate to reach out as needed.

In addition to regular match support contacts, you’ll also receive communication about agency-wide events. You can choose to participate in these opportunities or do your own thing – it’s up to you and your Little! We ask that you spend time together per program requirements, follow our safety guidelines, and communicate with us.