| Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Big |
1) What qualifications do I need?
3) What type of child will I be paired with?
4) What if I have a question, concern or problem with my Little?
5) What is the cost to me?
6) What would I do with a Little Brother or Little Sister if I became a Big?
- Enjoy children
- Be at least 18 years old for community based mentoring, at least in 10th grade for
- Be dependable, responsible and mature
- Access to insured, reliable transportation for community based mentoring
- Couples are welcomed—they make great Bigs
- Community Based Mentoring
- Spend 2-3 hours weekly with your Little doing things you both enjoy
- Commit to a minimum of one year with your Little
- Site Based Mentoring
- Spend 1-2 hours per week meeting with your "Little"
- Meet at the mentoring site only
- Commit to meeting with your Little at least through the end of the school year
It takes time for a friendship to develop. Because of the fulfillment the relationship brings,
most matches last beyond one year or one school year.
3) What type of child will I be paired with?
- Big Brothers Big Sisters strives to match Bigs and Littles with common interests
- Littles range in age from 6-14 years old
- Currently there is a waiting list of Little Brothers
4) What if I have a question, concern or problem with my Little?
- Big Brothers Big Sisters staff will contact you regularly, and you can always contact us if you
need advice or support at any time. We are here for you and want to see your match grow to a
great friendship!
5) What is the cost to me?
- Your time is the most important thing you need to commit. You may choose to spend money
on your “Little”, but it is not expected or required.
6) What would I do with a Little Brother or Little Sister if I became a Big?
- We hope to match you with a Little who shares some of your interests. The most important thing
to do is to spend time together and do something both you and your Little enjoy! From there,
the possibilities are almost endless.
Big Brothers Big Sisters also sponsors monthly activities for matches, and staff would be happy
to provide suggestions about things you and your Little can do together.
If you have additional questions about Big Brothers Big Sisters, please contact us in La Crosse
at 608-782-2227, in Winona at 507-452-2227 or in Trempealeau County at 715-985-2555. A
staff member will be glad to talk to you!