Think you want to be a Big Sister?
As a Big Sister, you can give a girl an opportunity to see beyond her everyday world and dream big. It’s good for your Little, as well as your community. It can start with simply letting her enjoy the things you already love to do and can grow into something bigger.
For just 2-4 hours a month, you can give a Little the invaluable gift of your friendship. By simply changing their perspective of what the world can offer, you can change their perspective of what the world can offer. Play a board game, make fun crafts, do some baking or hit the playground together.
VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS
- You must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver’s license
- Live and/or work in Spokane County
- Desire to improve the life of a child
- Ability to give an 18 month minimum commitment
- Meet with Little 2-4 times a month, 2-4 hours each time
- Attend an in-person interview, mentor training, complete background/reference checks, and complete a Home Visit
For more information about being a Big, please contact Ken Shelton, Customer Relations Specialist / Enrollment & Matching Specialist, at kshelton@nwbigs.org or (509) 328-8312 x214
Big Sister FAQs
Who are the Big Sisters in the program?
Our Big Sisters 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!
When can I see my Little Sister?
As a Big Sister/Little Sister team, you decide together what you want to do and then your Little gets parent approval. 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. Until your relationship is established the outings will also depend on the comfort level of your Little’s parents, your Little and you.
How much money should I spend?
The quality of time invested with your Little is more important than the amount of money you spend. We don’t encourage spending a lot of money on your outings. The goal of the relationship is to help her see the world through a different lens so you can inspire her to become something she never thought possible. We encourage you to seek out low-cost activities, especially in the beginning. 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 offers donor-supported group activities that are a great way to meet other Bigs and Littles. As a Big Sister, you may also receive notices for free tickets to cultural and sports activities.
What are some good ideas for outings with my Little Sister?
Share an activity that gives you something in common to talk about. Go to the library, check out a book and read together. Play a board game. Go on a nature walk. Or hang out 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!
Can I bring my spouse, a friend or family member on outings?
In the beginning it’s important for you and your Little Sister 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. The main focus is the friendship you develop with your Little and the impact you have on her life.
What kind of support can I expect from Big Brothers Big Sisters once I get matched?
Once you are matched with your Little Sister, a Match Support Specialist 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.
Will I become a replacement parent?
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!