Male Mentors Wanted! Though Big Brothers Big Sisters is always looking for volunteers from all walks of life, right now there is a greater need for men.

Do you know how to play board games, talk about sports and go to recess? What are you waiting for? Volunteer now! It really is that simple.

Being a Big Brother is one of the most rewarding things you will ever do. As a Big Brother, you get to be a kid again while you give a child the invaluable gift of your friendship. Of the hundreds of boys waiting for a Big Brother right now, there's one wanting to play video games, shoot hoops, or just hang out with someone like you!

More than 70% of our children who are waiting for a Big are boys, but only three out of every 10 inquiries to volunteer come from men. Research shows that having the positive influence of a Big Brother makes a real difference in the life of a boy. So join the millions of volunteers that give a young person someone to look up to and learn why so many are now saying. "I get back so much more than I give."

We are faced with a crisis - and you can help. Too many African-American boys throughout the county are at risk of dropping out of school, getting involved in drugs - losing their way. They are more likely to complete high school in prison than go to college. Having a Big Brother who can guide them and help them make positive choices will change their lives and make our communities stronger.

About the "Littles"

• Littles Sisters are between the ages of 6-14
• Little Brothers are between the ages of 7-14
• Littles and their families seek enrollment on a voluntary basis; they may be referred by a school or another social service agency, but their involvement with BBBS is not mandatory
• Littles and their families must be capable of supporting a relationship with a mentor
• Littles are always kids who would benefit from an additional positive role model

Helpful Facts for Potential Mentors:

Eligible volunteers should meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years of age. There is no maximum age limit.
• Have a viable means of transportation, up-to-date insurance, and a valid driver's license.
• Be available for at least one year.
• Be available for 10 to 12 hours per month.
• Have experienced no significant life changes within the past year - loss of family or close friend; marriage; divorce; birth of child - for instance.
• Do not anticipate any major changes within the next year.
• Have no record of abuse or harm to another individual.

These are considered to be minimum requirements. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois reserves the right to decline the acceptance of any applicant, and may not divulge the reasons for non-acceptance.

1. A Potential volunteer inquires by filling out the online form below or by calling our office Monday through Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm, at 618-398-3162.
2. A Big Brothers Big Sisters staff person will discuss the program requirement and mail an application to the applicant.
3. Upon return of the application, the applicant will be contacted to schedule an in-person interview and training at our office, which generally lasts between one hour and 1 1/2 hours.
4. References, background checks, and collateral checks are conducted by BBBS enrollment staff. This is generally the lengthiest phase of the process.
5. Based upon the outcome of the background checks, the applicant is notified of their acceptance or denial as a volunteer with BBBS.

Don't worry. We're here to help. Our trained staff will be happy to guide you through the application and enrollment process. And when it's time to make a match we'll help you meet a Little in our area who shares your interests - and we'll support you all the way. We will even give you some great ideas for activities that other Bigs and Littles have enjoyed through the years!

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To start the process of changing how our children grow up in Southwestern Illinois please fill out the form below:

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