WE HELP CHILDREN REACH THEIR FULL POTENTIAL
We create friendships that lead children to have better long-term outcomes like being more likely to graduate and less likely to perform illegal activities.
WE HELP CHILDREN REACH THEIR FULL POTENTIAL
We create friendships that lead children to have better long-term outcomes like being more likely to graduate and less likely to perform illegal activities.
For more than 70 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Heart of Georgia has recruited, screened, matched, and supported mentoring relationships that have changed the lives of hundreds of thousands of young people throughout Central Georgia.
We match children from one-parent, non-traditional and/or low-income households ages 7 years or older who reside in Central Georgia with a caring adult who is compatible with your child based on their shared personalities and interests. There is absolutely no cost to enroll your child into the program.
SAFETY FROM THE START
Your child's safety is extremely important to us. Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Heart of Georgia conducts a thorough background check on every volunteer in the program, and every relationship is carefully matched and closely monitored and supported by a professionally trained Mentoring Relationship Specialist. Additionally, staff, volunteers, parents, children, and board members are required to be trained in recognizing and responding to suspected child abuse and other protective best practices for mentoring.
PARENTS AS PARTNERS
When it comes to the specific future of your child and the general well-being of our communities, we are all in this together. It should come as no surprise that we need the parents and guardians of Littles to be involved every step of the way.
Parents approve the selection of their child’s Big and remain in close contact with professional staff to look out for their child’s best interests and to help achieve the best possible outcomes for their child. Parents approve all activities and outings between Bigs and Littles and communicate regularly with their child, the Big, and our Mentoring Relationship Specialists to help ensure healthy and safe relationship development.
OUTCOMES
A study for Big Brothers Big Sisters of America found youth matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister:
✓ are more confident
✓ are more likely to steer clear of drugs and alcohol
✓ do better in school
✓ get along better with their family and friends
✓ feel better about themselves*
*Tierney, J.P., Grossman, J.B., and Resch, N.L. (1995) Making a Difference: An Impact Study of Big Brothers Big Sisters.
STEPS TO ENROLL A CHILD
You and your child are invited to complete an in-person or virtual interview so we can get to know you, and discuss your role in our program.
Child safety is our #1 priority. This online training will highlight our commitment to keeping your child safe.
If our program is a good fit for your child and your family, our team will work to identify the best Big for your child. Once matched with a mentor, our dedicated specialists support your child throughout the entire lifespan of the match.