If you don't think that you currently have the time to commit to a one-to-one match with a child you will certainly enjoy the flexibility and shared responsibility of the Group Program. This program provides service to boys and girls who are on the waiting list for their own Big Brother or Big Sister. It also serves those children who need a positive male or female role model and peer interaction with other children of a similar age and same gender. Each group has a designated leader and several other dedicated volunteers who are assigned a number of girls or boys within a specific age range. The volunteers plan and supervise at least 2 outings each month, picking up the children and driving them to their group outings.
FAQsWhat is the basic commitment of a Group Big Brother or Sister?
A Group Big Brother or Big Sister is asked to make a commitment for at least 4 months. We strongly believe that the success of the friendship between our volunteers and a Little Brother or Little Sister depends more on regular and consistent contact and the enjoyment of the activities together, than on the length of the outing. While any amount of time that a volunteer contributes to a child's life is beneficial, we encourage an average of 2 outings a month as a guideline.
How do I apply to become a Group Big Brother or Sister?
There are several ways to apply to become a Group volunteer:
Is there an age limit for a Group Big?
Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age. There is no maximum age limit, as long as the volunteers are in good general health and are physically active.
Do you need to own a car?
In this program we would prefer volunteers to have a car although some of our Bigs and Littles rely on public transit.
Who are the Little Brothers and Little Sisters?
Children in our programs range in age from 5 - 16 years. Each child is unique, responsive, and has a need for a consistent, positive role model. As we are a volunteer service, our program is friendship based and is not designed as a form of intervention for serious individual or family problems.
Are we expected to help with family issues?
Our volunteers’ primary responsibility is to spend time with their Little Brother or Sister, and they are discouraged from getting involved in family dynamics. Agency support ensures that clear boundaries are maintained.
Is there a cost involved in being a Group Volunteer?
Each group is given a minimal budget to assist with the cost of outings. Some incidental costs may be incurred while on outings with your "Littles"; however, we encourage all participants to be creative about finding low or no cost activities to do together. We plan some special events for our volunteers and Littles that everyone is encouraged to attend at little or no cost to them. These events may include holiday parties, picnics, sporting events, water parks, etc. Additionally, we have made special arrangements with many local businesses and recreational organizations for cost-saving deals when matched Bigs and Littles are on outings together.
What do the kids like to do?
While interests vary, most kids like to participate in out-door activities, like swimming, mountain biking, and roller blading. They also enjoy movies, crafts, cooking and going to Guelph Storm hockey games. Many of our Little Brothers and Sisters enjoy team sports while others prefer art, working on building models, Lego, music, and computers.
The focus of the program is to spend quality time together. It’s not always necessary to do exciting activities, or spend money.
Does the agency stay involved once I become an active Group volunteer?
Yes. We provide ongoing support and monitoring. Our group coordinator is available to deal with any questions or concerns that come up. Regular phone contact with all parties is an expectation of the program. We have meetings for group volunteers twice annually to discuss outing ideas, scheduling, and group program issues.
It's easy to share a little magic:
- Call us at 519-824-5154
- E-mail us to find out more about volunteering as Group Big Brother or Sister