Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is in critical need of mentors. Right now, approximately 220 children in Northwest Florida are waiting for a caring adult to enter their life. These volunteers can help children achieve their full potential through innovative and transformative programs, which are geared toward helping them achieve success in school, avoid risky behaviors, and improve their self-confidence.
Our one-to-one mentoring programs are flexible and fulfilling at the same time. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida matches adult mentors with children ages 5-18 and beyond, who come primarily from single-parent families. A common misconception is becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister requires extra time and it doesn't. We ask our Volunteer Bigs to have weekly contact with their Little, with a minimum two times in person. It's not about finding extra time for your Little, it's sharing the time you already have.
We have three types of mentoring options available:
Community-Based: This one-to-one mentoring option allows you the opportunity to pick up your Little Brother or Little Sister at his or her home and spend time together in the community 2-4 times a month. Outings can range from going for a walk, playing basketball, visiting a library, working on arts and crafts, taking a bike ride, or watching a movie.
Site-Based: In this one-to-one mentoring option, volunteers meet with their Little Brother or Little Sister one hour a week at a nearby school. Many volunteers visit on their way into work, during their lunch hour, or perhaps during a long break during the day. Some businesses allow their staff time off to mentor.
Big Duo: This option allows two people to mentor and share the responsibility of mentoring a child.
Anyone interested in becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister can visit our website at www.bbbsnwfl.org or call 850-433-5437 for Escambia/Santa Rosa/Okaloosa/Walton Counties or 850-763-5437 for Bay County.
