What is Community-based Big Brothers Big Sisters all about?
It’s for school-age children from single parent homes who could benefit from a one-on-one relationship with a role model and mentor.

How old do I have to be to volunteer?
You need to be at least 18 years old. Older adults also make excellent volunteers, sharing their wealth of experiences, skills and interests with a child and married couples work especially well, giving the child an opportunity to observe a mature,
caring relationship between a
husband and wife.

What is my role as a volunteer?
You are a friend, mentor and role model.

How much time is involved?
Most Big Brothers Big Sisters meet weekly for 2 to 3 hours.

Do I need any special skills?
You need to have a heart for children and understand you are about to become an important person and role model in this child’s life. You maintain consistent weekly contact with your little brother or little sister and enjoy mutual activities.

What will I do with my little brother or little sister?
Mostly, you’ll include your little brother little sister in things you already do, for instance going to the library, playing sports, shopping, visiting a museum. You might take a look at homework or a special project occasionally, plan a visit to the Humane Society, take a look at a college campus, walk the dunes, fly a kite, see a movie, learn a new board game, listen, talk and laugh. Some volunteers provide job shadow experiences, too.

What is the role of D.A. Blodgett for Children?
D.A. Blodgett for Children manages the Big Brothers Big Sisters program for all of Kent County and Eastern Ottawa County by providing volunteer and child screening and ongoing match support, organizing occasional get-togethers for the volunteers and children, and providing professional counseling for the child and family when needed.

When does the program start?
You may begin volunteering anytime.

How do I sign up?
Call D.A. Blodgett for Children at
(616) 451-2021 and ask to speak with a Big Brother Big Sister social worker or email bbbsgr@dablodgett.org.