Volunteering is fun! Being a Big Sister is simple and rewarding. It is as easy as showing your new Little Sister how to play a favorite computer game, bake an apple pie or reading the funnies together.

We've learned that being someone special to a child doesn't take much more than that. But the impact is huge - for both of you!

Children need the friendship and guidance of someone like YOU.

About the "Littles"

• Little Brothers and Littles Sisters are between the ages of 6-14
• 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

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Helpful Facts for Potential Mentors:

Eligible volunteers will 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.

How to Apply and Steps for Enrollment:

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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