Thank you for your interest in becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister to a child in our community. The men and women who volunteer to become mentors come from different cultures, backgrounds, ages and occupations, but they all share a common goal - to provide a child with friendship and support while encouraging them to reach their potential.
Prospective Big Brothers and Big Sisters say they would like to give something back, yet most end up saying, “I get so much more than I give.” One Big Sister said that, “it is the most rewarding thing I have ever done.”
It takes a special person to be a Big Brother or Big Sister, and not everyone can qualify for or make the commitment to our program. At Big Brothers Big Sisters, we don’t just match any adult with any child — we build relationships between adults and the youth in our community.
Please carefully review the two types of programs we offer. If you feel that being a Big Brother or Big Sister is right for you, call our office at 406-721-2380 to speak to a staff member about the application process. You can also use the contact us section, to send an email to a staff member for follow up on being a big. Just remember to add in the comments that you are interested in being a big.
Community-Based Program
In the Community-Based program, Big Brother and Big Sister volunteers spend a few hours each week with children and youth - our "Littles" - while sharing activities and conversations. During these outings, a relationship is developed that helps Littles manage the every-day challenges that are part of growing up. Children gain new skills, explore new interests and expand their experience base beyond their family or neighborhood while exploring the world with their adult friend.
Volunteer criteria:
- Can commit to 2-3 hours with your "Little" every week for at least 1 year
- Is at least 19 years old
- Successfully completes the enrollment process
Site-Based Program
In the Site-Based program, volunteers offer children and youth 1:1 time and attention at the child's school rather than in the community. Bigs and Littles meet regularly during the school year - typically each week - while utilizing the resources available within the school: the library, the gym, a classroom, or the schoolyard.
Volunteer criteria:
- Can commit to 1-1.5 hours with your "Little" every week for the school year
- Is at least 16 years old
- Successfully completes the enrollment process