Being a Big Brother or Sister is the most rewarding, fulfilling, and enjoyable way to give back to your community. Too many youth face hardships that threaten to limit their future. Their parents and caregivers are doing the best they can, but often their time and resources are limited by circumstances.
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast, we believe every one of us can benefit from having one more person invested in our success. That’s why, at the request of parents, we match 6- to 21-year-olds (Littles) with caring adult volunteers (Bigs) to walk alongside them. For many Littles, their Big is the only relationship that’s all theirs—someone who can invest dedicated time to encourage them and introduce them to new possibilities and perspectives.
Individuals (at least 18 years old), couples and entire families can serve as Bigs. Submit your application to get the ball rolling!
Individuals (at least 18 years old), couples and entire families can serve as Bigs. Submit your application to get the ball rolling!
Individuals (at least 18 years old), couples and entire families can serve as Bigs. Submit your application to get the ball rolling!
Individuals (at least 18 years old), couples and entire families can serve as Bigs. Submit your application to get the ball rolling!
Littles deserve a consistent, enduring relationship. To build that relationship, Bigs commit to a minimum of 12-months, two outings per month, for a minimum total of four (4) hours. Although it’s not required, many Bigs and Littles stay together far past that first year; sometimes a lifetime.
Bigs and Littles hang out and talk, run errands together, go to the park, catch a game or a movie, grab a meal or make one, head too the library… you know: regular stuff kids and teens like to do. Honestly, the what isn’t the point. The point is The Who. Could that be you?
It’s natural to feel a bit intimidated by the word mentor. But a mentor is simply someone who listens, encourages and points out possibilities. Big’s aren’t responsible for solving problems; they’re only responsible for caring about the challenges Littles encounter.
Bigs are part of a team of caring and important adults in a young person’s life. You’ll have the support of the Little’s parents and teachers and our professional program staff.
Our Bigs come from diverse backgrounds just like our Littles. They are regular people, just like you. You don’t need any special degrees or job skills. You just have to want to positively impact a young person. Role models come in all shapes and sizes, and you could be a perfect fit.
As a Big/Little team, you decide together what you want to do and then your Little gets approval from his or her parent. We recommend that you keep a consistent schedule of outings and get together on a regular basis. Your local agency will provide more guidance on this. The outings will also depend on the comfort level of your Little’s parents, your Little, and you.
The quality of the time you invest with your Little is more important than the amount of money you spend. That’s why we don’t encourage spending a lot of money on your outings. The goal of the relationship is to help your Little see the world through a different lens so you can inspire your Little to become something they never thought possible. If you are going to spend money, we encourage you to seek out low-cost activities, especially in the beginning. Play a game together, or share that pizza that you were going to have for lunch anyway. Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies offer donor-supported group activities that are a great way to meet other Bigs and Littles. As a Big, you may also receive notices for free tickets to cultural and sports activities for you both to enjoy.
Share an activity that gives you something in common to talk about. Take a ride in the car, get a bite to eat, go to the library, check out a book and read together. Go to the beach, work out together. Play a video or board game. Go for a walk in the park or hike at the celery fields. Hit a bucket of golf balls at the local driving range. Listen to the radio and talk about the music you like. You want to select activities that give each of you a chance to learn more about one another. For children, playing can be learning. Most important: keep it simple and enjoy yourselves!
In the beginning its most important for you and your Little to get to know each other. This can happen best on a one-to-one basis. However, over time it’s also valuable for your Little to get to know the people who are important to you. Just keep in mind that if you’re spending lots of time with others, your Little may begin to feel jealous or neglected. The main focus is the friendship you develop with your Little.
Once you are matched with your Little, a Match Support Specialist from the agency will be in regular contact with you to provide assistance and give feedback. Any time you are unsure about what to do or how to handle a situation, you will have a Match Support Specialist there to help. They’ll help you with ideas for activities, guidance for handling possible difficult situations, and feedback on how you are making a difference.
No, Littles have a parent or guardian in their life already. What they need is a Big to spend quality, one-on-one time with them. Someone to have fun with, someone they can confide in, someone like you!
A message from the Big Brothers Big Sisters Family: We hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast’s Board of Directors recently elected Randall Woods as Chair for a 2-year
Our new Big Brothers Big Sisters branded license plates are available for sale at county tax collector offices across Florida.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast encourages Littles to graduate high school and pursue a post-secondary certification and/or
“I was hesitant at first about becoming a Big Sister,” shared our Big Sister of the Year, Harriet Thompson. “What
Tommy Bahama 26th Annual Bungalow Classic MONDAY, NOVEMBER 138:30 AM – CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST & REGISTRATIONThe Resort at Longboat Key ClubHarbourside
