Big or Little

Why become a BIG?

For just a few hours a couple of times a month, you can help a child succeed.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is different from other mentoring organizations in that we seek volunteers who are committed and consistent, willing to serve at least a year, but we hope until a child graduates high school. It’s what makes our programs successful, helping kids who face adversity beat the odds.

Professional staff are there to work with you, the child and the family throughout the course of the mentoring relationship to provide necessary training and support.

Funding allows us to carefully make and support more matches. Sometimes, the supply of volunteers and kids is greater than the necessary agency funding.

We are grateful for your willingness to be involved and while it is certainly not a requirement, we welcome you to also become a donor – as you volunteer or wait to be matched.

Join Here

Why be a LITTLE?

It all starts with the right role model. For over 30 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has been connecting young people in Central Illinois with caring mentors who help them reach their full potential. Through our professionally supported matches, we provide your child with a consistent friend and guide to help them navigate life’s challenges.

The Impact of a Big A study for Big Brothers Big Sisters found that children matched with a mentor are:

More confident in themselves.
Better at getting along with their family and friends.
More likely to steer clear of drugs and alcohol.
Happier and feel better about themselves.
More successful in their schoolwork.

A Partnership with Parents You know what’s best for your child. We need your help from the start to provide information about your child’s strengths and needs, and you will ultimately approve the Big Brother or Big Sister match.

Our Commitment to Safety Your child's safety is extremely important to us. Big Brothers Big Sisters conducts a thorough background check on every volunteer in our programme, and every relationship is closely monitored and supported by a professionally trained match coordinator.

Our evidence-based approach ensures a safe, rewarding experience that changes lives—one Little at a time. You will feel the positive impact on your child’s confidence and future just as much as they do.

Enroll Here

Big & Little Tales

A Match Built on Joy Matched since 2016, Big Sister Sydney and Little Sister Cassidy are a highlight of our high school site-based programme. By visiting Cassidy weekly for crafts and board games, Sydney has become a consistent source of encouragement. Cassidy’s teacher notes that the match has significantly improved her school attendance and confidence, giving her something to look forward to every week.

Sydney & Cassidy