Big Brothers Big Sisters Southern Lake MI Region

Big Brothers Big Sisters provides opportunities for volunteers of all ages to be friends to children who need extra time and attention to succeed in school and in the community. Volunteers in our school-based program mentor children whose teachers have referred them for individualized one-on-one concentrated time. Typically, an hour each week talking about what is on the child's mind, reading the newspaper together or puzzling over a class assignment, has a positive impact on the child's attitude about school and academic achievement, while putting a little fun and extra meaning into the volunteer's day and week. Volunteers in our Community based program see the child for several hours a few times a month out in the community participating in activities that both enjoy. Volunteers enroll through Big Brothers Big Sisters and following reference checks, a multilayered background check, and an interview, are oriented to the program and introduced to a little brother or little sister by BBBS staff. Regular support is provided to assure that the relationship builds over time, and any logistical problems are resolved. Teachers and parents report that children with Bigs have an improved attitude about school, better relationships with peer and adults, and improved academic performance. We ask that Bigs commit to at least 1 year of spending time with their Little.