- As a Big, your role is as a supportive, encouraging friend that your Little can look forward to spending time with, in a community-based or site-based match.
- Community-Based matches meet a few hours a month doing everyday activities such as going to the park, playing games, watching movies, cooking, arts & crafts, or just hanging out. You're never obligated to spend money on activities. In fact, we encourage you to include your Little in your normal daily routine.
- Site-based matches meet during the school year over the Little’s lunchtime. For 30-40 minutes once a week, a Big will visit their Little at school and spend one-on-one time eating, playing games, doing homework or talking.
Big FAQs
What does it mean to be a Big?
What are my obligations as a Big?
Your Match Support Specialist will provide details, as rules differ with different match types, but in general your commitment is a few hours of your time a month as a positive, encouraging, and supportive friend to a youth near you.
Bigs Must:
- Commit to being a mentor for a minimum of one year
- Follow ground rules and safety guidelines
- Stay in touch with your MSS
- Report any issues or concerns
What will my Little “look like”?
A Little is a local youth enrolled in our program with a bright future who is facing a challenge in life. Of the youth we serve:
- 33% live or have lived outside the home
- 85% have a household income at or below poverty
- 43% report some type of abuseathome
- 56% report problems at school
- 56% have at least one family member who’s had contact with law enforcement
What is the process to become a Big?
Step 1: Submit a volunteer inquiry
Step 2: Attend a 15-minute info session virtually or in person to learn about the youth we serve, our match options, and what a Big does
Step 3: Complete volunteer enrollment process (paperwork, interview, and home visit*) *Home visits for community-based Bigs only
Step 4: Choose your Little! BBBS staff will present information about youth who are a best-fit match for you based on personality and common interests.
Step 5: Meet your match & let the fun begin!
Why is there a one - year commitment to be a Big?
How much time do I have to spend with my Little?
What support is provided to our match?
Who determines the Little I’m matched with?
How long should our match last?
What if our match doesn’t work?
How many youth does KSBBBS you serve?
How do I refer someone to become a Big?
We’re always looking for volunteer recommendations! If you’d like to refer a Big, simply click below to complete your referral.
What is the “Bigs App”?
How can I support Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters if I’m not ready to be a Big yet?
If you are unable to give your time as a mentor, you can support KSBBBS by giving a one-time or monthly donation. Our program is completely free to the families we serve, so financial contributions allow us to match more youth to a mentor for transformational change.
Finally, advocate for KSBBBS and the youth we serve by help spreading the word about our program! Refer people you know to become a Big or donor, tell your family and friends about our program, and follow us on social media!
Ready to become a Big? Click below to get started by filling out our Big inquiry form.