Become a Mentor
Why Should I Become a Mentor?
Being a BIG BROTHER, BIG SISTER, BIG COUPLE or BIG FAMILY is one of the most enjoyable and fulfilling things you will ever do. You have the opportunity to help shape a child’s future for the better by empowering him or her to achieve. The best part is, it’s actually a lot of fun. You and your LITTLE can share the kinds of activities you already like to do.
There is a FIT for YOU!
We know you are busy. Cool thing is, mentoring works around your schedule. Our staff are trained social services professionals here to help whenever you need it. You will be well-equipped with loads of information, advice, tips and answers. We have activity ideas, organized events and a handy list of discounts available to our Matches.
Community-Based Mentoring
Matches typically meet twice a month on evenings and/or weekends at the convenience of both parties. Volunteers coordinate match times and activities directly with the parent. Match outings are usually two hours but will vary based on time availability and match activities. Matches get to know each other and develop their friendships through various activities they enjoy such as taking a walk, attending sporting events, visiting the library or partaking in a favorite hobby, etc. The possibilities are limitless and flexible. For this program option, you must be at least 18 years old, have a driver’s license, access to a vehicle and auto insurance.
School-Based Mentoring
Volunteers visit a Little at an elementary school near their home, work or high school. Weekly meetings occur over the child’s lunch/recess during the school year. Matches get to know each other and develop their friendships through various activities such as board games, cards, puzzles, coloring and more! For this program option, you must be at least 16 years old and must have a valid drivers license.
Interested in Becoming a Mentor?
Ready to apply?
If you’re ready to start the enrollment process, please fill out the application here.
APPLY NOW
Note: This application is for volunteers who live in Wisconsin in Fond du Lac and Northern Dodge County. If you live outside of this area, please visit the BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS of AMERICA national website to search for your local agency.
Want more information before you apply?
Please fill out this form and we will contact you soon.
Big FAQ
A big is a mature individual, age 16 or 18 years and up, who is interested in being a part of a child’s life at least four hours per month for school or calendar year based on program choice.
Big Brothers Big Sisters is a non-profit agency that matches children with adults who help by simply being a special friend. If you are looking for a fun and exciting way to make a big difference in the life of a child, Big Brothers and Big Sisters may be just what you are looking for. Every child deserves to have a person in his or her life to count on and to be there sharing childhood successes and struggles … someone who will take the time to listen, to help develop a positive self-image, enhance their sense of well-being and provide hope and encouragement.
We strive to follow your preferences closely. During the application process, we learn specifics concerning the child, the parent and yourself which will help us make a match. These specifics include age, religion, personality, family backgrounds and ethnicity. After information is exchanged regarding a potential little, you will have the final say as to whether or not this is the right fit for you.
You, the parent and child will have monthly contact with your Match Support Specialist to make sure things are going well with you and your little brother or little sister. If you should ever have a question, concern or need advice, and your Match Specialist isn’t available, you may speak with any Program Staff at the office. Our staff is always available to encourage your relationship in any way we can.
Our services are free to you and your little. Keep in mind, the idea is not to spend a lot of money, but instead for the match to spend fun, quality time together. With that said, any and all recreation/restaurant stops will be at your expense. Big Brothers Big Sisters has a discount program for matches that includes many local restaurants, entertainment and recreational businesses. Additionally, Big Brothers Big sisters offers many free agency outings such as the summer picnic held at the Dock Spiders.
A match is the pairing of a big brother to a little brother, a big sister to a little brother/little sister, a big couple to a little brother/little sister or a big family to a little brother/little sister. Big Brothers Big Sisters matches bigs with littles based on similar interests in order to make the best possible match.