Thinking about becoming a Big?

Consider the benefits children in our programs gain:

91% feel better about themselves.
65% have improved self-confidence.
67% have a better sense of right and wrong.
76% show improved school grades.
80% have a better school attendance record.
82% develop  better relationships with their teacher.
90% get along better with other kids.

“The most critical role for a mentor is to be an adult who has time for a child, who cares about that child, and who believes in that child. This relationship may provide the ONLY stability a child knows, and the only time anyone spends quality time with the mentee.”

-Keith Geiger

Mentor Roles and Responsibilities:

öEngages in a positive relationship with the child

öGives attention to the mentee

öHas positive self-esteem

öReacts well to stressful situations

öListens well

öCommunicates on a level the mentee can understand

öIs stable

öProvides leadership

öRespects alternative lifestyles

öIs a positive role model

öMeets on a weekly basis with the mentee

öShows up on time for sessions

öIs willing to serve a minimum of one year in the program

öCares about helping a needy child

öIs not a judgmental person

öIs committed, reliable and responsible

öNurtures a relationship that respects the mentee’s dignity

öReinforces the mentee’s successes

The Mentor’s Role Is Not To:

öReplace the role of parent/guardian

öTutor the mentee in academic subjects as means of improving grades

öExpect dramatic changes in attitude, self-esteem, or attendance quickly

öProvide solutions to all issues facing children today

öBreak the trust they have established unless there is a safety concern