Big Brothers Big Sisters Traditional Mentoring Program
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Lowell's traditional mentoring program matches children in the community with a caring, carefully screened volunteer who will spend one-on-one time with the child. The idea is that this volunteer can be another positive adult in the child's life, someone to be a friend, a role model, another caring, trusting adult to take an interest. Volunteers must be over the age of 18 and have a valid driver's license. We ask new volunteers to make a year time commitment, to see the child once a week, for a few hours. This time is flexible. A volunteer may choose one consistent day to meet with the child, or the day can change from week to week. Big Brothers Big Sisters can try to work around other circumstances. If there are special circumstances for you regarding time commitment, please talk to us. There is usually a way that we can work around things or other volunteer opportunities that may be available.
There is a screening process for new volunteers. The first step is to fill out an application. We ask for three personal references and 1 professional reference. We conduct an interview at your home, and ask you to attend a two-hour training in our office. In addition to the interview, training and references, we must complete a criminal background check.
At Big Brothers Big Sisters, we like to make good quality matches. Just as we do a screening process on volunteers, we also do an intake process with potential families and children. We do our best to make a positive match where the volunteer and child can make a good connection and have similar likes and interests. We want this to be an enjoyable experience for all involved. Although we ask for a year time commitment, many of our matches last beyond a year, some forming life long friendships.
The agency serves children ages 7-14 from the towns of Ashby, Ayer, Billerica, Carlisle, Chelmsford, Dracut, Dunstable, Groton, Littleton, Lowell, Pelham, Pepperell, Shirley, Tewksbury, Townsend, Tyngsboro and Westford. We take referrals from parents, guardians, social workers, teachers, counselors, and all children on the waiting list want a Big Brother/ Big Sister. About 80% of the children served come from single parent homes. This is a popular service that is provided to the family at no charge.
We are always are excited about potential new volunteers. If you have additional questions or need additional information, please call (978) 453-9339.