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What does a BIG do?
Bigs step up.
Youth want and deserve stable relationships with members of our community from all walks of life. To stabilize the relationship, Bigs commit to a minimum of 12 months, 2 outings per month, and a minimum of 4 hours a month. Some Bigs and Littles opt into staying together past that first year; sometimes they stay connected for a lifetime.
Bigs have a good time.
Bigs and Littles hang out and talk, play games, watch a game or movie, read books, share meals, fish, tour museums… The activity list goes on and on. We make sure you and your Little have shared interests, so it is a fun time for both of you.
Bigs mentor.
Mentorship can be an intimidating word. But a mentor is someone who listens, inspires, motivates, and shows their Littles the world of possibilities for their lives.
Bigs are supported.
Bigs are an extension of our agency’s presence in a young person’s life. You’ll have the support of this agency, the buy-in of the Little's family, and, of course, our highly trained program staff, who are available to answer questions and provide additional training whenever you need it.
3 Steps to start something BIG.
You can start the process at any of these 3 steps.​
People who are 18 or older can apply to be a Big. The application takes approximately 15 minutes. You will need a photo ID, your driver's license and auto insurance (if you have it), and at least 3 references we can contact.
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Click the link above to go to the application to get started. You can save your progress and return later, if needed.
We match volunteers with youth based on interests, personalities, preferences, and needs. The interview is the best way to get to know you, so we can best match you. It also gives you time to ask questions
Click on the link above to schedule a 1-hour Big Interview with one of our team members. It will be a virtual meeting on Microsoft Teams, unless you contact staff to let them know you want in-person.
This training is an introduction to what it means to be a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters. We lay the foundation for the ongoing support and training you will receive from our agency.
Click the link above to sign up for a Pre-Match Training for Volunteers. If none of the dates and times work for you, let our staff know.
Other Requirements
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Complete forms and surveys needed by program staff, including a background check.
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Initiate contact with your Little on a consistent basis to schedule activities.
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Meet with your Little at least 2 times a month (~4-8 hours a month) for at least one year
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Maintain ongoing communication with the Big Brothers Big Sisters staff.
Contact our Program Manager with any questions
Blake Tierney: email btierney@bbbsca.org or call/text (501) 315-6742
Why Mentoring Matters
Mentors level the playing field to ensure Arkansas can fulfill its promise to develop, educate, graduate, and build world-ready young people.
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When a young person is connected to the necessary tools, resources, and relations they enter adulthood...
• College and Career Ready
• Civically Engaged
• Financially Empowered
• Emotionally Intelligent
• Socially Connected
The young people we serve want to be great too and one person can be the green light to be great. At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arkansas, we understand that every person can benefit from having a champion who sees the best in them.
Not READY FOR A BIG
COMMITMENT?
Ask us about other volunteer opportunities
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Between our annual events, outreach activities, and administrative tasks, there are plenty of ways you can join in our mission without being a mentor. Reach out to our Program Manager to ask about upcoming opportunities.
Host a
LUNCH & LEARN
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You know people who are like-minded who may want to serve with you. Get 10 or more people together to have a conversation with one of the staff members, and we'll come to you with refreshments!
Need more INFORMATION?
Get in touch with our Program Manager, Blake Tierney (btierney@bbbsca.org or 501-315-6742).
Frequently Asked
QUESTIONS
How much time will it take to be a BIG?
You'll need to commit at least four (4) hours each month to spending time with your Little. However, because Littles deserve consistency, we require Bigs to make a 12-month commitment (in hopes you'll continue beyond that!).
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What will my LITTLE and I do together (and will it cost a lot)?
Bigs and Littles hang out and talk, run errands together, play a game, watch a movie, grab a meal, make a meal. We match based on shared interests, and you get to play a part in introducing your Little to new experiences. We strongly recommend no/low-cost activities because the relationship is what matters most. If you ever need help brainstorming activities, our team is available to help you.
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How do kids get signed up for the program?
Typically, the parent/guardian initiates the youth application process. That includes an interview with the parent(s)/guardian and the prospective Little. This interview ensures the best possible match/relationship. It also ensures that the child wants to have a mentor and that everyone understands what it means to be part of this program.
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Who else is involved?
A Match Support Specialist will support you, your Little, and the parent(s)/guardian. These trained experts help you all grow together to build a trusting, lasting relationship.
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Can I bring my spouse or friends along?
Not at first, because it's tough to build a trusting relationship with someone when you have an audience! Over time, though, it's good for Littles to get to know the people who matter to their Big. Just take care to prioritize your Little ones so they don't feel left out. Remember, you may be the only person in their life who's all "theirs."
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What if I have a concern?
Any relationship can feel complicated from time to time. Because our Littles are navigating all sorts of challenges, you may come across situations you're not sure how to handle. Our Match Support Specialists are available to address any bumps along the way.
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Why does mentoring work?
Just like the rest of us, Littles can get stuck in one way of thinking, seeing, or going about things. But, through an enduring relationship with a mentor, youth learn new things, grow in self-confidence, and make healthy choices... all because they are introduced to what's possible.
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Why should I volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters?
Central Arkansas has a number of organizations doing incredible work in the community, and we're just thrilled you're looking for a place to volunteer! We hope you'll choose to join our efforts because of Big Brothers Big Sisters' long history of proven success. For over 50 years, we've been helping Littles do better in school, stay out of trouble, and pursue their dreams. Together, we make a BIG difference in the quality of life for youth in Central Arkansas.