Need a Big

Referrals for the services of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Monmouth County come from many sources: teachers, social workers, counselors and parents or guardians. Most children are from single parent homes and may be experiencing emotional, social and academic challenges. All are from Monmouth County and must be between the ages of 6 and 14 at time of enrollment. Once an application is received from the family, a case worker is in contact to arrange for an interview with the parent/guardian and the child. Information gathered during the interview with the family and separately from the volunteer enables the case worker to match Bigs and Littles based on interest and geographic areas. The case worker then provides ongoing support and supervision for the duration of the match. Match activities typically last 2 to 4 hours and occur twice a month. We ask for at least a one year commitment from the parent/guardian, the child and the volunteer so that the relationship has a chance to grow and provide the most benefit for the child.

Mentors come from many walks of life but have in common their willingness and ability to broaden a child’s horizon, have fun and teach the child new skills. They are screened, have an office and a home interview, provide references, and agree to motor vehicle and background checks. They also attend pre match training. Match activities typically occur in the community and may include free or low cost activities from hiking at Holmdel Park, kayaking/canoeing, mountain biking, fishing, shooting hoops, baking a cake, going to the library, eating ice cream or just sunning on the beach.

Apply online click here or contact Sandi Mangino at 732-544-2224 ext. 313 (email: smangino@bbbsmonmouth.org ) for further information.