Question 1

How a Big Becomes A Big – And a Little, A Little.

Accepted Answer

Before making a match, we do our homework. When someone expresses interest in becoming a Big, we conduct thorough background checks and thoughtful interviews. We then match Bigs and Littles based on location, personality, and shared interests. From day one, we offer ongoing support to help these relationships grow into meaningful, lasting friendships. None of this would be possible without the generosity of our donors—your support powers every step of the matching journey.

Question 2

Is there a cost for the program?

Accepted Answer

No – participation in Big Brothers Big Sisters programs is FREE.

Question 3

Which PA Counties Have Mentoring Programs?

Accepted Answer

We match Littles and Bigs across Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry and York counties.

If you live in a different county or state, please visit bbbs.org to find your nearest agency.

Question 4

What Makes a Child Eligible for a Program?

Accepted Answer

The most important requirement for our youth is simply a desire to be part of our program and connect with a mentor. We are dedicated to serving all young people who can benefit from a meaningful mentoring relationship. Our commitment is to foster a safe, inclusive environment where every individual is respected, valued, and empowered to thrive.

Question 5

What are the Age Requirements for Littles?

Accepted Answer

We enroll youth ages 7-17 in our Community-Based Programs and ages 5-17 in our Bigs in Schools programs. Several facilitated programs are designed for students in specific age groups and depend upon partnership agreements with area schools. For youth enrolled in our Community-Based Program, we can support their match relationship up to age 21.

Question 6

What Safety Measures are in Place?

Accepted Answer

Your child’s safety is extremely important to us. Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central PA conducts thorough background checks on every volunteer in our program, and every relationship is closely monitored and supported by a professionally trained match coordinator.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Standards of Excellence require each volunteer to complete an extensive screening process that includes: Completion of a formal written application; Background and reference checks; An in-person interview; An orientation and training process that outlines the individualized needs of your child and provides information and resources on how to encourage your child’s development Big Brothers

Big Sisters of South-Central PA also provides child safety tips to families, youth and volunteers, and we welcome your questions and feedback. Throughout the life of the match, our professional staff will be in ongoing communication with the parent/guardian, Little and Big. It’s the best way to build a strong relationship that will have the greatest impact on a Little’s future success.

Question 7

How does Big Brothers Big Sisters Support Youth in Their Programs?

Accepted Answer

We ensure child safety through extensive volunteer screening and regular match support.

We compatibility match youth and volunteers based on each youth’s individual needs, shared interests, personalities, and goals.

We provide comprehensive volunteer training to ensure mentors are equipped to deal with challenges and provide support to their mentees.

We conduct regular one-to-one case management with every child, parent/guardian, and volunteer mentor to support relationship development.

We engage parents/caregivers through case management and participation in activities to involve them in their children’s mentoring relationships.

We provide structured educational, cultural, and recreational activities and experiences for youth and mentors.

Question 8

What are the Age Requirements for Bigs?

Accepted Answer

For our community-based program, Bigs are required to be at least 20 years of age. This requirement is waived only for volunteer mentors in our High School Bigs and College Bigs programs.

Question 9

What Are the Volunteer Participation Requirements?

Accepted Answer

All volunteers must provide three references and pass an agency-issued background check.

All Bigs must complete in-person mandatory mentor training prior to acceptance in the program.

Volunteers that will be transporting their Little must have a valid driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance coverage.

Volunteers commit to responding to monthly Match Support status check-ins.

Question 10

As a volunteer, what kind of support can I expect from the program?

Accepted Answer

Once you are matched with your Little, a Match Support Specialist from the agency will be in regular contact with you to provide assistance and give feedback. Any time you are unsure about what to do or how to handle a situation, you will have a Match Support Specialist there to help. They’ll provide ideas for activities, guidance for navigating potential challenges, and feedback on how you are making a difference.

Question 11

How much money should I spend on an outing with my Little?

Accepted Answer

The quality of time invested with your Little is more important than the amount of money you spend. That’s why we encourage selecting low-cost or no-cost activities. Play a game together, visit the park, or include your Little in your daily errands. If you are going to spend money, we encourage you to seek out low-cost activities, especially in the beginning. Go bowling, play mini golf or get ice cream together.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central PA offers free annual group activities that are a great way to meet other Bigs and Littles. You may also receive notices for free tickets to cultural and sports activities for you both to enjoy.

Question 12

Where do I fill out the Match Meeting Log?

Accepted Answer

This is a designated log for Children & Youth Grant Matches ONLY. To meet funding requirements for Dauphin County, we may ask you to fill out a Match Meeting Log for EACH match activity you enjoy with your Little. Please complete this only upon instruction from your Match Support Specialist.

FAQ’s

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently asked questions