Big Brothers Big Sisters is about the power of friendship.  The Bigs and Littles in our programs experience the magic of everyday moments when they are shared with a friend.  Everyone needs someone to laugh with, share dreams with and just hangout with ... With friends, it's the little things that mean the most.

Who Are Big Brothers & Sisters?

They are responsible, caring adults who:

• are 18 years of age or older and live in the Chatham-Kent area
• are willing to volunteer 3 hours of their time per week for at least a year
• have a genuine interest in establishing a meaningful friendship with a Little Brother or Sister
• want to help a child to build on their strengths and enhance her self-esteem

Who Are Little Brothers & Sisters?

The children in our programs are unique individuals who:

• are 6-16 years of age
• are from a single or two-parent family or in guardian care
• may be experiencing some difficulties in their lives such as problems with family, friends, or school
• need encouragement to meet their challenges
• want a special friend to talk to, learn from, and share life's experiences with

The Friendship Process

Each child matched according to their unique needs. Each volunteer is trained, and then matched according to his/her preferences and abilities. Each friendship receives ongoing support and supervision.

Services Offered

·   One-to-one friendship & the opportunity for personal growth and enrichment

·    Organized group activities

·   In-school Mentoring

·   On-going support for all program participants 

Funding

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Chatham-Kent receives approximately 35% of its funding from the local United Way. The rest is generated through the vigorous fundraising efforts of our volunteers and through community donations. The agency receives no government funding.