Home About Us Volunteer Moms & Kids News & Events Contribute Career Opportunities




Volunteer Process


FAQ


I want to volunteer


For Bigs

 

Share your story


Sponsors

United Way
Designate CBBBS
for your United
Way contributions



Jack in the Box logo

Becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister
Frequently Asked Questions


  1. Do I need to be Catholic?
  2. I don't live in the Los Angeles area. Is there a program near me?
  3. Will I have enough time?
  4. Is it expensive to be a Big Brother or Big Sister?
  5. I've never worked with children. What do I have to offer?
  6. Am I the kind of person you need?
  7. I'm interested, but can I get more information before making a decision?
  8. Can I really help?
  9. Are there other ways for me to be involved if I don't become a Big Brother or Big Sister?

1. Do I need to be Catholic?
No. Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters was founded in 1925 by Catholic laypeople, but, as times change, so do the needs of the community. As a result, Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters has grown to serve volunteers and Little Brothers and Sisters who represent many religious backgrounds.
return

2. I don't live in the Los Angeles area. Is there a program near me?
Yes. Though Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters serves only Los Angeles County, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America has 500 affiliated organizations across the United States. Check the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Website for an organization near you.
return

3. Will I have enough time?
Yes. When you agree to become a Big Brother or Big Sister , we ask you for a one-year commitment of a few hours spent with a child two or three times each month. That's not a lot, is it? You can schedule your hours according to the time you have available and involve the child in your normal activities. Quality time can be spent while washing the car, shopping at a hardware store, or just hanging out together.
return

4. Is it expensive to be a Big Brother or Big Sister?
It doesn't have to be. There are many activities that are free or low-cost. Riding bikes. Hiking. Going to the beach. Use your imagination. Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters also occasionally provides free tickets to ball games and other events. The most valuable thing is to provide your Little Brother or Sister with your time and friendship.
return

5. I've never worked with children. What do I have to offer?
Your friendship. It's that simple. We all have positive qualities to share. Our selection process is designed to match your qualities with the needs of a child in your community. After you are matched with a child, a case manager is available to provide training, support, help and advice when needed.
return

6. Am I the kind of person you need?
Yes. If you have the time, the desire and are at a stable place in your life, you could make an ideal Big Brother or Big Sister for a child on the waiting list.
return

7. I'm interested, but can I get more information before making a decision?
Yes. Call (800) 463-4066, (213) 251-9800, or (213) 251-7760 (TTY) and talk to one of our staff members. You may also email our Volunteer Recruiter who will be happy to answer any and all questions you have, and to provide all the additional information you need..
return

8. Can I really help?
Definitely. Remember, you are asked simply to be a child's friend. That's easy and fun. You will be a positive influence in the child's life and your relationship will grow and develop in a natural way.
return

9. Are there other ways for me to be involved if I don't become a Big Brother or Big Sister?
Yes. Call (800) 463-4066, (213) 251-9800, or (213) 251-7760 (TTY) and a staff member will go over all available volunteer opportunities. You may also email our Volunteer Recruiter
return



© Copyright 1998 - 2006 Catholic Big Brothers, Incorporated. All rights reserved. See our privacy statement and trademark info.    Webmaster: a3i. This page last updated on April 5, 2004