A Big Brother is an adult volunteer who is matched with a child between the ages of six and sixteen for a mentoring friendship. A "Big" may be from any walk of life, either married or single, and with or without children. S/he is committed, caring, and has the ability to provide positive guidance and support to a Little.
FAQs
What is the basic commitment of a Big Brother?
Big Brothers/Sisters are asked to make a commitment for a minimum of one year. * Note if you are a student and go home for the summer, you can still be a Big, and will connect again with your Little once September happens again. Developing a friendship with a child and creating a positive influence takes time. We strongly believe that the success of the friendship between a "Big" and a "Little" depends more on regular and consistent contact and the enjoyment of the activities together, than on the length of each visit. While any amount of time that a Big contributes to a child's life is beneficial, we encourage an average of 3 hours a week as a guideline.
How do I apply to become a Big Brother?
Application Process consists of:
- Complete an Inquiry Form. Required before application is submitted.
- Complete Application Form - Appendix C1 Community Based applicationor call (613) 544-1621 and we will mail one to you.
- Provide 4 references ( 1 character, 1 significant other, 1 family, 1 employer) that you have known for more than 2 years.
- Provide 1 medical reference.
- Obtain a Police Clearance and vulnerable sectors check from The Kingston Police Department on-line at www.police.kingston.on.ca, or go to the station in person at 705 Division Street, Kingston, ON
A fee of $15 for the CPIC is required. - Mail your completed application form to
Big Brothers Big Sisters Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington
1344 Princess Street,
Kingston, ON K7M 3E2
Phone (613 544-1621)
Fac (613 544-5742)
Once we receive your completed application form and your attached references expect a call from the Caseworker to set up an appointment time for your interview and training.
Is there an age limit for Big Brothers/Big Sisters?
The minimum age for Big Brothers is 18. There is no maximum age limit, as long as the volunteer is in good general health and is physically active.
Do you need to own a car?
No, some of our Big and Little Brothers rely on public transit. We’’ll try to match a particular Big Brother to a child on an easy bus route.
Who are the Little Brothers/Sisters?
Children in our programs range in age from 6 - 16 years. Each child is unique, responsive, and has a need for a consistent, positive role model. As we are a volunteer service, our program is friendship based and is not designed as a form of intervention for serious individual or family problems.
Is there a cost involved in being a Big Brother?
Some incidental costs may be incurred while on outings with your "Little"; however, we encourage all participants to be creative about finding low or no cost activities to do together. We plan some special events for our volunteers and Littles that everyone is encouraged to attend at little or no cost to them. These events may include holiday parties, picnics, sporting events, water parks, etc.
What do the kids like to do?
The children in our programs have varied interests and enjoy a wide variety of activities. Depending on the age and interests activities may include sports, crafts, community events, movies, video games or playing in the park. We take great care in matching with a child who enjoys the same activities you do.
The focus of the program is to spend quality time together. It’s not always necessary to do exciting activities, or spend money.
Does the agency stay involved once the match is made?
Yes. We provide ongoing support and monitoring. Our caseworkers are available to deal with any questions or concerns that come up. Regular phone contact with all parties is an expectation of the program as are regularly scheduled meetings to discuss the progress of the match.
It's easy to get involved
Funding for the Big Brother program is being supported
partially funded by the United Way KFL&A,