Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Flint Home

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Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions:

Q: How do you make the matches?
A: Matches are made based on: Personality, similar interests, strength of the volunteer and needs of the child, personal preferences of all parties involved, age, race, and religion.

Q: Do I have to be pick up my Little at their home?
A: Yes it is agency policy that you pick up and drop off at the Little’s home.

Q: What are the requirements to become a Big?
A: Application, references, good driving record, transportation, police and legal check, at least 16 years of age, good emotional and physical health and time to commit a few hours a week or every other week.

Q: How much time is required?
A: There is no minimum requirement! You tell us how much time you can commit and we will match you with a child who can benefit from that time. Communication with agency staff about this matter is very important!

Q: How long does it take to be matched?
A: It usually takes about 15 days, but it could vary based on our ability to get criminal background checks, driving checks, and references. Our goal is to match volunteers as quickly as possible, while maintaining the integrity of the process.

Q: What kinds of activities do I do with my Little Brother or Little Sister?
A: There is no science to planning activities with your Little Brother or Little Sister. You simply include them in activities that you are already involved in; involve them in your life.

Q: What kind of family situations do the children come from?
A: It varies from low, medium to high priority.

Q: Do we have to wait until we receive the acknowledgement form prior to seeing our Little?
A: No, once it is confirmed that all parties want to proceed with the match, you can begin seeing your Little.

Q: What happens if after the introduction we find we do not get along?
A: At Big Brothers Big Sisters, we understand that sometimes a match may close prematurely, for a number of reasons. If for some reason the match appears to be closing, we encourage you to discuss the details of the match with your caseworker and the caseworker will make certain that neither party is harmed. After which, the volunteer can be matched with another Littler Brother or Littler Sister.

Q: Who initiates the contact between myself and the Little?
A: In the early stages of the match, the volunteer is responsible for initiating contacts with his/her Little. However, as the match matures, the Little Brother or Little Sister may initiate contact with you. All activity plans should be discussed with the parent/guardian.

Q: Do I have to wait until I am matched to participate in the activities?
A: No, it depends on whether the activity includes waiting Bigs and Littles.

Q: How far do I have to drive?
A: We try to keep our matches within a 10-mile geographic proximity.

Q: Are matches made on the condition of gender?
A: A female volunteer can be matched with a Little Brother until the time the Brother reaches 10 years of age. However, male volunteers may not be matched with Little Sisters.

Q: How long can we stay matched?
A: We ask for a commitment of one year, however we hope the matches continue beyond that time frame. The agency discontinues monitoring the match when the Little graduates from high school.

Q: Can my Little come along on my family activities?
A: After a one-on-one relationship has been established, it is ok to include your Little in you family.



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