Couples for Kids is a program where a couple (20 years old +) is matched to a Little in a relationship that's based on fun and friendship. We match a Couple with a Little, working to ensure they have similar likes and interests. Matches spend approximately 3 hours per week together doing things that friends do.....like going biking, playing ball, doing crafts, watching a movie or just hanging out. We ask our volunteers to give a year commitment to this program.
You don't have to change your life to volunteer in the Couples for Kids program....having a Little just means sharing your life with them.
This is a great way for both of you to give the gift or friendship to a child.
FAQs
What is the basic commitment of a Couple?
Couples are asked to make a commitment for a minimum of one year. 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. As a couple you and your partner can spend time together with a "Little" or you can each spend 1:1 time with your "Little"
How do we apply to become a Big Couple?
Application Process for each of you consists of:
- Complete an Inquiry Form. Required before application is submitted.
- Complete Application Form - Appendix C1 Community Based application or 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 form from The Kingston Police Department on-line at www.police.kingston.on.ca, or go to the station in person at 705 Division St.
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)
Fax (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 is 20 years old for the Couple Program and have been together for more than a year. 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 Couple Match?
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 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
