Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Washington

what’s involved | parents as partners | child safety

Enroll a Child

When people think of mentoring programs, they think of Big Brothers Big Sisters. As an established youth mentoring organization for more than 30 years locally, we strive to develop programs that work. Our experienced approach to recruiting, screening, matching and supporting mentors has resulted in thousands of lasting friendships, and has helped change the lives of young people in our community.

Throughout the length of your child’s match, we will work closely with you. Your input guides us in making the best match for your child. Not only do you provide information about your child’s interests and needs, but you also approve the selection of your child’s Big Brother or Big Sister. Once the match is made, parents/guardians remain closely involved in several key ways, including approving match outings and providing important input about the Big/Little relationship.

We understand you wouldn’t trust your child with just anyone. That’s why you’ll be glad to know that every Big Brother and Big Sister has had a thorough background check and that every match is regularly reviewed by a professional Match Support Specialist.

All children between the ages of 6-14 are eligible for our program. All we ask is that the child want a Big Brother or Big Sister and that you – the parent or guardian – be willing to be involved in monitoring and supporting the relationship.

Our program has a tremendous impact on the children we serve. Independent research shows that, compared to their non-mentored peers, Little Brothers and Little Sisters:

  • Are more confident;
  • Are more likely to steer clear of drugs and alcohol;
  • Stay in school and get better grades;
  • Get along better with their family and friends;
  • Feel better about themselves;
  • Are less likely to use violence to solve problems; and
  • Are less likely to get involved with juvenile authorities.

To start the process of enrolling your child in one of our programs, just email info@bbbs-nw.org or call (360) 671-6400.

Once you have completed an application for your child, one of our Customer Relations Specialists will contact you to set up an interview in your home. During the interview, there will be a short orientation and we will ask you and your child questions to get to know him or her better so we can make the best match possible.
After the interview is complete, we will begin looking for a Big Brother or Big Sister for your child. When we find the right match, we will propose the match to you for approval. Upon approval, we will conduct a match introduction, and you will be on your way!

Throughout the life of the match, Bigs attend trainings provided by the agency, Bigs and Littles also check in regularly with their Match Support Specialists. We also provide optional group activities, such as game nights, sporting events and seasonal attractions.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Washington welcomes parent’s questions and feedback at any point in the match process. Throughout the life of your child’s match, our professional staff will be in ongoing communication with you, your child, and your child’s Big.
Once the match is made, parents remain closely involved in several key ways, including:

  • Approving match activities and supporting your child’s involvement.
  • Asking your child questions about the match meetings and reporting any concerns to the agency staff.
  • Regularly reporting back to the agency about your child’s progress and milestones in the match relationship. Big Brothers Big Sisters will contact you regularly, but we welcome your feedback at any time.

Parents and guardians are an integral part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters match at every step of the process. Not only will you provide information about your child’s strengths and needs, but you’ll also approve the selection of the Big Brother or Big Sister.

To help ensure child safety, Big Brothers Big Sisters National Standards of Excellence require that specific steps must be taken. Each volunteer must complete a thorough screening process that includes:

  • Completion of a formal written application.
  • A criminal background check at federal, state and local levels.
  • A driving record check from the Department of Licensing.
  • Three references.
  • An in-person interview.
  • A professional assessment of their appropriateness to volunteer with a child.
  • An orientation and training process that outlines the standards, policies, expectations, and roles of a mentor.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Washington also provides child safety tips to you and your child, and we welcome your questions and feedback. Our staff and your child’s Big, with your support, are committed to the healthy growth and development of your child.