Thank you for making the first steps toward mentoring a child in your community. Being a Big Brother or Big Sister is a magical experience. It’s easy to understand if you try this simple exercise: Think back to when you were younger. Other than your parents, who touched your life in some simple but special way? Who was that person you always remember with a smile? Maybe it was your aunt who taught you her “secret recipe,” or your next door neighbor who let you help him fix his car. Or maybe it was someone who took you to a ball game, or taught you how to play “chopsticks,” or showed you how to catch fireflies in a jar. It was probably someone who just included you in an everyday activity because it was fun—for you both. Being a Big Brother or Big Sister is about sharing simple, magical moments like these with a child. Each of us had a special person who opened doors and widened our horizons on the world. By being a Big, you can do the same for a child, and you will both be forever changed by the experience.

We will do our best to ensure that the interview process is smooth and easy and we hope to match you as soon as possible. Begin by letting us know you're interested by submitting your information in an Online Volunteer Inquiry by clicking on the button in the right column. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact us by phone at 352-375-2525.

When thinking about your commitment, first consider how much time you have to dedicate to your Little. Are you going to be in Gainesville for less than 4 years? Is it easiest for you to see your Little for an hour at a time during school hours? Do you prefer to spend weekends with your Little? All of these questions will help you decide if you are best for Community Based Mentoring or Bigs In Schools and Sites.

Community Based Mentors meet with their Little an average of 3 hours a week on the weekends or evenings and engage in activities tailored to the child's specific needs and interests. This kind of relationship works best when the Big will be in the child's life for along period of time as the goal is to build life-long relationships.

If are not sure of your commitments after one year, then the Bigs in Schools and Sites would be a better choice for you. In this service delivery model, Bigs meet their Littles either at their school or an approved site for an average of an hour a week. The commitment is at least a school year, but the option to transfer to Community Based after getting to know your Little is always there.

Please complete an online inquiry today. We look forward to hearing from you!