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Partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters
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To help meet the needs of the almost 800 children and youth who are on the waiting
list to be matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister, Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Central Ohio has implemented
the Friend-to-Friend Program.
What is the Friend-to-Friend Program?
The Friend-to-Friend program matches children who are on the waiting list
with Bigs-for-the-day at monthly activities sponsored by Big Brothers Big Sisters. These activities give the
children on the waiting list an opportunity to participate in mentoring activities while they wait for their Big
Brother or Big Sister. |
The children on the waiting list are between the ages of 5 and 16, are primarily
from single-parent homes, and live in the Central Ohio area, including Union and Delaware Counties.
The Friend-to-Friend program is ideal for individuals or groups who have limited time or who are interested in
learning what a “match” is like before committing to be a Traditional Big Brother or Big Sister. For each activity,
adult volunteers are “matched” with a child in a structured agency-sponsored activity. Friend-to-Friend activities
give the volunteer an opportunity to experience a match while providing the child with an opportunity to interact
and have fun with a caring adult. |
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What Kinds of Activities?
Friend-to-Friend activities are once a month, sponsored by Big Brothers Big
Sisters or a local corporation. Each activity provides a structured and organized environment for Bigs-for-the-day
to mentor an individual child or a group of children. Activity fees for the child are pre-paid by the agency or
local corporation. Friend-to-Friend activities include baseball games, trips to local museums, picnics, ice skating,
swimming and more.
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Who Can Volunteer?
Friend-to-Friend volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked
to participate in at least two activities per year. There is no experience necessary to be a friend to a
child. Friend-to-Friend Bigs-for-the-day must be willing to laugh, have fun, and be flexible. |
The Friend-to-Friend Program is an ideal opportunity for corporations who want to
make a difference in the community in which their employees live and work. Local corporations have the opportunity
to sponsor a Friend-to-Friend activity either by providing their employees as Bigs-for-the-day or through a donation.
The Friend-to-Friend Program is also a great opportunity for community service clubs, college organizations, or
other groups who are looking to make a difference in the life of a child.
How Can I Get Involved?
For more information on volunteering at or sponsoring a Friend-to-Friend activity
through volunteers or a donation, please call the Mentoring Initiatives Director at Big Brothers Big Sisters at
(614) 839-BIGS (2447) or in Union County contact BBBS at 937.642.2157.
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