How are Little Brothers/Little Sisters introduced to the agency?

Children and their families are referred to the agency by schools, other social service agencies, clergy, relatives, or the families may call on their own.

How do Little Brothers/Little Sisters become “Littles”?

The child and the parent are asked to complete an application and are personally interviewed by a professional staff member to help best determine the exact need in each situation. They are all voluntarily a part of the program.

What are matches based on?

A match is based on such factors as geographical location, personality, needs, and interests as well as the volunteer’s and parent’s preferences.

When is a match made?

A match is made only after the volunteer and parent have met face-to-face in our office and mutually approve of making the match. The “pre-match” meeting is facilitated by a case manager and provides both parties with the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about each other. If, after sufficient consideration, the volunteer and parent both want to proceed with the match, we will set up a match meeting in the office, where the plans for the first visit are discussed.

What happens after I’ve been matched?

Throughout the match, the volunteer is never left without the assistance of the professional staff of the agency. Each match is assigned to a case manager for ongoing supervision. Volunteers have monthly contact with the case manager to discuss their feelings about the match and help is available should any problems occur.

What kind of activities can I do with a Big?

Activities could include: riding bikes, surfing, cooking, gardening, hiking, playing video games, going to the movies, going out to eat, or just hanging out.

How many children has Big Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Cruz County served?

Hundreds of children have been served by Big Brothers Big Sisters since it began in 1982.

How is Big Brothers Big Sisters funded?

Big Brothers Big Sisters relies on our community to support our mentoring services. The majority of Big Brothers Big Sisters’ funding comes from fundraising events and private donors including individuals, foundations, businesses, service clubs, and faith-based organizations. Federal and local government also funds Big Brothers Big Sisters.