If you don't see your question below, feel free to reach out to a Marketing & Recruitment team member by messaging enroll@bbbsomaha.org.
Q) What are the requirements to become a Big?
A) Bigs must be:
-19 years or older. (Our current Bigs range from 19 to 70+)
-a high school graduate or hold a GED.
-have a valid driver's license and current automobile insurance.
-meet specific criminal history and automobile driving guidelines.
Big Couples:
In addition to the requirements above, couples have to be married or have been in a relationship for three or more years. They also have to live together, but don't have to live together fo three years.
Q) How much time will I be expected to spend with my Little?
A) Bigs will pick their Little up at their home and spend at least four hours a month total on two or more separate outings.
Q) What activities can I do with my Litte?
A) Bigs will communicate with their Little and their parent/guardian(s) to schedule activities. It is up to both parties to decide what activities they would like to do. We also offer at least two activities a month, free of cost for all matches. (Activities with a higher risk of injury require the signature of a High-Risk Activity Form from all parties.)
Q) How long can a match last?
A) We ask for a minimum commitment of one year for each match we make. However, if both parties wish, matches may remain active until the Little turns 21.
Q) How long will it take to get matched?
A) We do not operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The waiting period varies for the different types of Big. At our agency, we typically have a list of close to 100 Little Brothers and Little Sisters waiting to be matched at any given time.
Q) Is there a cost involved with this program?
A) Your financial output should be very minimal. We encourage our matches to do low and no-cost activities. Your assigned Match Support Specialists can help you with activity ideas. Children are expected to pay their own way when activities involve a cost. We also have a list of participating businesses that give special discounts to our Big-Little matches.
Q) May I choose the type of child I will be matched with?
A) Through the interview process, our Enrollment Coordinators will get to know you and will work with you to identify a child with whom you will be best matched, based upon age, background, interests, and other factors.
Q) Does Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands accept LGBTQIA2S+ volunteers?
A) We value diversity, and no person will be denied equal opportunity to volunteer because of race, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Preferences, fit, and similarity of interests are taken into consideration when matching individuals together. As part of the matching process, we will disclose such information to the parent/guardian. If preferences are not aligned, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands will work to find a Little who we believe will be a good match for you.
We will continually work to enhance our community-based mentoring program and agency as a whole to better support our LGBTQIA2S+ Bigs, Littles and their families.
Q) Can I bring my spouse/friend/family member on outings?
A) In the beginning, it’s important for you and your Little to get to know each other. This happens best on a one-to-one basis. Over time, it is also valuable for your Little to get to know the people who are important to you. But remember to keep it to a minimum; the main focus is the friendship you have with your Little.
Q) What happens if my match doesn’t work out well?
A) We do everything in our power to make a make a match we think will last; however, we realize that sometimes things happen in life. Bigs or Littles move, situations change or something doesn’t work out. We will attempt to mediate the situation, but if it doesn’t work out, we will end the match. If this happens, your Match Support Specialist will be there to support you every step of the way and handle it in the best way possible. A Big should never just drop out of a Little’s life without closure as this is very detrimental to the child.
