Big Brothers Big Sisters is the nation’s oldest and largest youth mentoring organization, established in 1904.
Big Brothers Big Sisters in Ellis County started in 2000 to help boys and girls, most of whom are considered at-risk and living in single-parent homes, achieve their full potential through long-term personal relationships with carefully screened and caring volunteers. Over the last 15 years, they have matched more than 1,600 at-risk children with caring volunteers who have spent time playing basketball, helping read, going to the movies, or just listening. Each year, BBBS of Ellis County matches nearly 204 children with a positive role model.
Change a child’s story.
Compared with their peers, children with a Big Brother or Sister are:
70% less likely to be arrested
53% less likely to skip school
40% less likely to initiate drug use
89% improve their grades
81% improve self confidence
Who Can Be A Big?
To qualify to be a Big, you don’t have to be an expert with kids or be a parent. No experience is necessary to befriend an at-risk child in your community. Littles benefit enormously simply from getting to know and having fun with a caring adult.In Kansas, more than 3,000 children are waiting for a mentor to positively impact their lives. More than 70 percent of children on the waiting list are boys, but only three out of every 10 inquiries to volunteer come from men. There is always a special need for male volunteers. Baby Boomers, minorities and retirees also make great volunteers! Your valuable life experience and stability may be just what a Little on our waiting list needs.
Everyone has something to offer a Little. Being yourself will make all the difference in the life of a child.
To become a Big, follow these simple steps:
- Contact Big Brothers Big Sisters
- Fill out the application online
- For the safety of our children, all volunteers must undergo a background check.
- Provide references who can recommend you as a mentor.
- Complete an interview with a match specialist.
- Meet your Little!