Become a Little
Learn how your child can become a Little and build a meaningful connection with a supportive mentor.
Become a Little FAQ
Who are Bigs?
Bigs are at least 18 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 reach their full potential.
How are Bigs screened and trained?
Child safety, match consistency, and positive outcomes are our top priority. The application process for Bigs includes: pre-match training, an application, background checks, verification of drivers license and auto insurance, and references. We also conduct an in-person orientation and extensive interview. A follow up interview may be required.
What is the role of the family?
The role of a family is very important: We ask that you support the friendship, encourage communication, and be responsive to BBBSJC staff once your child is matched. Monthly communication with BBBSJC staff is required.
Monthly communication with Mentoring Specialists is a requirement for all Bigs and families.
How does BBBSJC choose a Big for my child?
Our professional Mentoring Specialists discuss Bigs that they think will be a good fit based on personality, interests, life experiences, and academic and career interests. Mentoring Specialists also take into consideration where the Big and Little live.
What happens after my child is matched with a Big?
Matches meet at least twice a month and stay in touch in between. Bigs and Littles choose when they hang out together and what they do (with parent permission for any community outings, of course). You and your child will have a Mentoring Specialist throughout your child’s Match that will monitor the Match and offer resources for you and your family.
How long will my child be matched?
We ask for a minimum commitment of 15 months for each Match we make.
How much does it cost to enroll my child in BBBSJC?
Nothing! Becoming a Little is free.
What are Big Couples?
Big Couples are a pair of Bigs who are relatives, spouses/significant others, friends, co-workers, or roommates who want to be matched together to mentor the same Little. The benefit of a Big Couple is that both Bigs have the option of meeting one-on-one with their Little OR all three can get together. Our Big Couples love the flexibility this gives their Match!
What if it doesn’t work out?
Our Mentoring Specialists do everything to make a Match that will last. However, we realize that sometimes things come up – Bigs or Littles move, situations change, or something doesn’t work out. Mentoring Specialists will attempt to mediate the situation, but if it doesn’t work out, the Match will end. If this happens, your Mentoring Specialist will be there to support you every step of the way and handle it in the best way possible. Matches may also be closed if Bigs or Families do not maintain required monthly match support.
Enroll Your Child
Beginning April 15, 2019, we are unable to accept applications for youth aged 15 years and older. We are very sorry for any disappointment this may cause.
If you have unmet needs, please see this List of local Family & Youth Services.
Additional resources can be found at the Johnson County Social Services’ Resource Directory.
And/or feel free to call and speak with a BBBS staff person who may be able to direct you to helpful resources, at 319-242-3059.