Mentor FAQs

If you don't see your question below, you can contact Marketing & Recruitment Coordinator, Kyle Bishop, at kbishop@bbbslincoln.org.

Community-Based Mentoring FAQs

Q) Who are the Bigs in the program?

A) "Bigs" are what we call our mentors, they come from diverse backgrounds just like our youth or "Littles". They are regular people, just like you. You don't need any special degrees, skills, or expertise. You just have to want to make a positive impact on a young person. Role models come in all shapes and sizes, and you could be the perfect fit.

Q) What are the requirements to become a Big?
A) Bigs must be:
          -19 years or older. (Our current Bigs range from 19 to 70+)
          -a high school graduate or hold a GED.
          -have a valid driver's license and current automobile insurance.
          -meet specific criminal history and automobile driving guidelines.

     Big Couples:

In addition to the requirements above, couples have to be married or have been in a relationship for three or more years. They also have to live together, but don't have to live together for three years.

Q) What kind of support can I expect from Big Brothers Big Sisters once I get matched?

A) Once you are matched with your Little, a Match Support Specialist from the agency will be assigned to your match. This trained professional will be in regular contact with you, your Little, and your Little's parent/guardian(s) to provide assistance, resources, and support. Any time you are unsure about what to do or how to handle a situation, you will have a Match Support Specialist there to help. 

Q) How much time will I be expected to spend with my Little?

A) Bigs will pick their Little up at their home and spend at least four hours a month doing outings.

Q) What activities can I do with my Little?

A) Bigs will communicate with their Little and their parent/guardian(s) to schedule activities. It is up to both parties to decide what activities they would like to do. We also offer at least two activities a month, free of cost for all matches. (Activities with a higher risk of injury require the signature of a High-Risk Activity Form from all parties.)

Q) Can I bring my spouse, a friend, or a family member on outings?

A) In the beginning, it’s most important for you and your Little to get to know each other. This can happen best on a one-to-one basis. However, over time, it’s also valuable for your Little to get to know the people who are important to you. Just keep in mind that if you’re spending a lot of time with others, your Little may start to feel jealous or neglected. The main focus is the connection you develop with your Little.

Q) How long can a match last?

A) We ask for a minimum commitment of one year for each match we make. However, if both parties wish, matches may remain active until the Little turns 21. 

Q) How long will it take to get matched?

A) We do not operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The waiting period varies. At our agency, we typically have a list of close to 100 Littles waiting to be matched at any given time.

Q) Is there a cost involved with this program?

A) Your financial output should be very minimal. We encourage our matches to do low and no-cost activities. Your assigned Match Support Specialists can help you with activity ideas. Littles are expected to pay their own way when activities involve a cost. We also have a list of participating businesses that give special discounts to our matches.

Q) May I choose the type of youth I will be matched with?

A) Through the interview process, our Enrollment Coordinators will get to know you and will work with you to identify a youth with whom you will be best matched, based upon age, background, interests, and other factors.

Q) Does Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands accept LGBTQIA2S+ volunteers?

A) We value diversity, and no person will be denied equal opportunity to volunteer because of race, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Preferences, fit, and similarity of interests are taken into consideration when matching individuals together. As part of the matching process, we will disclose such information to the parent/guardian. If preferences are not aligned, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands will work to find a Little who we believe will be a good match for you.

Q) What happens if my match doesn’t work out well?

A) We do everything in our power to create a match we think will last; however, we realize that sometimes things happen in life. Bigs or Littles move, situations change or something doesn’t work out. We will attempt to mediate the situation, but if it doesn’t work out, we will end the match. If this happens, your Match Support Specialist will be there to support you every step of the way and handle it in the best way possible. A Big should never just drop out of a Little’s life without closure, as this is very detrimental to the child.

The Steps to Become a Big

Step 1: Complete an inquiry form. The form will ask for your basic information and automatically enter you into our database. After you submit this, someone from our office will contact you shortly to complete the full application and walk you through the rest of the process.

Step 2: Attend a Mentor Pre-Match Training. Our Mentor Pre-Match Training will answer your questions and help prepare you to get the most from your volunteer experience. 

See below for a list of upcoming Mentor Pre-Match Training sessions!

Step 3: Submit background check paperwork, provide references, and complete your interview questionnaire. Potential Bigs must complete and pass required background checks and provide contact information for references. Before your interview, you’ll also complete a questionnaire that helps our team learn more about your background, interests, personality, and what you’re looking for in a match. This information helps us thoughtfully match you with a Little who may be a great fit.

Step 4: Get-to-Know-You Interview. You’ll complete an interview with our staff so we can learn more about you, your interests, and your goals for becoming a mentor. This helps us get to know you better and make a thoughtful match that sets both you and your Little up for success.

Step 5: Make a Match. Once you’re approved, our Enrollment Coordinator will begin looking for a Little who could be a great fit for you. We consider several factors when making a match, including shared interests, personalities, preferences, and other qualities that can help build a strong, lasting connection. Our team takes the time to thoughtfully match each Big and Little to set the relationship up for success.

Step 6: Meet your Little. Once you and your Little both agree to the match, it’s time to meet! This is an exciting moment, and it’s completely normal to feel a little nervous. Your Little may be feeling the same way!

Your Match Support Specialist will be there for your first meeting to make introductions, review a few guidelines, and help break the ice. After introductions and some final paperwork, you and your Little can head out for your first activity together. Keeping it simple is a great way to start getting to know each other, and your Match Support Specialist can help choose your first activity.

Step 7: You are matched. Once you’re matched, you and your Little will decide together how you’d like to spend your time. Mentoring is all about sharing simple, everyday moments, so there’s no need to plan elaborate or expensive outings. What matters most is spending consistent, quality time together and allowing your connection to grow naturally.

Your Match Support Specialist will be there to support you throughout your match with regular check-ins, helpful resources, and activity ideas. They’ll also keep you updated on free tickets, special events, and other BBBS opportunities you and your Little can enjoy together.

Upcoming Informational Sessions