Me? A Big?

Yes! You! It’s really simple. All you need to do is share fun and friendship with a kid while doing stuff you both enjoy like play sports, visit new places, enjoy free tickets to events, wash your car, get a bite to eat, watch TV, or just hang out. Whatever. You decide!

What’s in it for me?

For a few hours a month you get to be a kid again! Even better, you’ll make a BIG difference in your community and in the life of a child. And you’ll be surprised how much you get in return.

Who are the Littles?

Littles are general between the 6 and 18, and when they’re first matched in the program they’re typically between 6 and 13. The one thing they all have in common is that they want a Big. Other than that, they represent all walks of life and come from just about every community in Allegheny, Washington and Greene Counties.

How do I know I’ll get along with this kid?

We get to know you first so we can find the best Little for you. Your Enrollment & Match Specialist matches you with a kid based upon your common interests, personality and geography.

Can I really do this?

Yes! If you’re 18 years or older (or just 15 to be a High School Big). Our oldest volunteer is 74! Everyone can share experiences, talents, and skills. Just a few hours every other week being a friend for 12 months will make you a great Big Brother or Big Sister!

I don’t know much about kids…is that okay?

You bet! Behind the scenes, you’ll have a team of experts – your Match Support Team – cheering you on, answering questions, and helping you out if you need it!

Do I really have the time to do this?

If you have the time to run errands, hit golf balls, see a movie, or watch a game on TV, you have the time to be a Big. Just incorporate your Little into your everyday life experiences. Share your hobbies and interests – even your “to-do” list! What’s most important is that you’re a consistent, trusted friend. And when you’re too busy to see your Little, just make simple phone call or drop a note in the mail to set a date for your next outing.

How much is this going to cost me?

Being a Big Brother or Big Sister is absolutely free (other then providing your enthusiasm and the gift of including a kid in your spare time). And if you like free stuff, we get thousands of donated tickets and passes to cultural activities, special events, concerts, and sporting events – including the Pirates, Penguins and Steelers! And when you’re not at a game or touring a museum, there is lots of no-cost fun to enjoy with other Bigs and Littles in the community.

I’m not sure I can be a traditional Big. Are there other options available?

Absolutely! We have Bigs who mentor in schools and at community centers and churches. We also have couples and families who mentor a Little Brother together. There are Big Sisters who mentor boys, too. Plus, we have High School Bigs, along with college students and groups of employees who mentor in our School-based Program. Just tell us what would work for you, and we’ll do our best to accommodate.

There are so many mentoring programs out there. What makes Big Brothers Big Sisters the best?

Big Brothers Big Sisters is the oldest and largest youth mentoring organization in the world. Trained professionals recruit, screen, match and support Bigs and Littles through a network of 470 agencies throughout the county. These one-to-one mentoring relationships have documented positive outcomes for children. In short, Big Brothers Big Sisters has a proven record of success that extends more than 100 years. The BBBS model for one-to-one mentoring, along with the outstanding professional support provided to each mentoring relationship, are unequaled.