Programs
To enroll a child in a program, download Enroll a Child.
To be eligible for our programs, a child must meet the following criteria:
- Be 6-17 years old
- Demonstrate a mentoring need (whether academic, behavioral, or social)
- Explicitly express a desire to have a Big Brother or Big Sister!
Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Florida offers the following programs for Littles in Alachua and Marion Counties:
Bigs Inspiring Scholastic Success
Bigs Inspiring Scholastic Success (BISS) matches children ages 6-17 with a Big Brother or Big Sister mentor who meet with their Little Brothers or Little Sisters for one hour or more each week at selected schools and sites. Your child and his/her Big may spend time together reading books, doing schoolwork, making arts and crafts, playing games, and just having fun! Teachers and principals see improved confidence, academics, and attitudes from students who are participating in this program. The program is funded in part by the Department of Education and has a strong academic focus. To see which schools and sites we are serving, click HERE.
Community-Based Mentoring
Community-Based Mentoring matches children ages 6-17 with a Big Brother or Big Sister mentor who will spend time doing activities with their Little in the community. These activities include sporting events, walks in the park, mall visits, movies, museum visits, homework help, local college campus visits, community volunteering, and anything else that is fun and provides an opportunity for bonding, encouragement, and cultural enrichment. Mentors commit to regular contact with the child at least 2-4 times per month for a minimum of one year. Many Big and Little Brothers and Sisters have formed such a strong bond that their friendship lasts into adulthood or for a lifetime.
Mentoring Children of Promise
Mentoring Children of Promise matches children ages 6-17 of incarcerated parent(s) with Big Brother or Big Sister mentors. Children can be matched through our Bigs Inspiring Scholastic Success, Community-Based Mentoring, or Sports Buddies program. Please see these program descriptions for more details.
Sports Buddies
Sports Buddies matches children ages 6-17 who enjoy sports and being active with Big Brother or Big Sister mentors who share the same love of sports. Through this program mentors model good sportsmanship, teach life skills, and build solid friendships on the court or in the field. Children can be matched through our Bigs Inspiring Scholastic Success, Mentoring Children of Promise, and Community-Based Mentoring programs. Please see these program descriptions for more details.