Make a Big Impact with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alabama

BBBS’s mission is to, “create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.” Why? Because they believe every child can succeed and thrive in life.

With care and intention, their professional staff matches volunteer mentors (Bigs) with children (Littles) ages 6-18 for long-term, one-to-one relationships. To date, they’ve served 3,000+ children through six Alabama agencies across 41 counties.

BBBS map — Map of county coverage via BBBS of Alabama

The agencies include:

One of the best parts? BBBS continues to provide professional support to volunteers, children and parents/guardians throughout the life of the Big/Little match so these relationships truly leave a lasting effect.

How to Become a Big and Find Your Little

Across the state, roughly 500 children are waiting to match with their Big Brother or Sister. If you have a knack for mentorship or working with kids or teens, this is the perfect opportunity to use your talents and give back to children in need. Here’s how to become a Big:

Submit an inquiry via their website or contact an agency by phone to get the process started.
After they’ve reviewed the inquiry, they’ll send you an application and schedule a time for you to meet with a Case Manager.
Once they’ve determined your eligibility (this process could take weeks), they’ll reach out to let you know their decision.
If accepted, you’ll have volunteer training and match proposals.
Once your match proposal has been confirmed, you’ll get to meet your Little along with their parent/guardian and the matching and enrollment specialist.
There, you’ll go over rules, complete paperwork and finally be able to start meeting with your Little!

For more details on the process, visit their site. Have a busy schedule, but still want to volunteer virtually? Find out more about their E-Mentoring opportunities. From chatting on the phone to Netflix watch parties, E-Mentoring is a great way to give back for a minimum of 30 minutes each week.

More Ways to Support BBBS of Alabama

Not able to volunteer, but still want to support this statewide organization? Consider donating to help them continue their important work in communities across Alabama. Any and all donations, no matter how big or small, help make their Big/Little matches possible.