Relive the Fun | Big Brothers Big Sisters of Wabash Valley

The local agency is an affiliate of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. The leader in youth mentoring, Big Brothers Big Sisters was established in the early 1900s when caring philanthropists were moved to help children who were growing up in unstable and impoverished conditions. Today Big Brothers Big Sisters has grown to include more than 490 Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies serving hundreds of thousands of children across the country.

Bigs are caring people with time to devote to a child on a regular basis. Professional staff screen all applicants thoroughly before matching them with waiting children and provide consistent support during the match to the volunteer, child and parent.

Being a Big means listening to, learning from and being there for your Little Brother. The volunteers have permission to pick the child up from their home and take them to various activities. Going on a picnic, watching a movie, or taking a walk in the park are just a few ways to create the magic. Discount rates are offered at many Lafayette restaurants and recreational facilities for "Bigs" and "Littles."

Absolutely! Couples married for at least two years are eligible to be a Big Couple.

Big Brother staff interviews, trains and carefully matches volunteers and children on a one-to-one basis. The interest of the volunteer are carefully considered when making matches. Once a match is made, on-going support is provided by staff counselors who offer encouragement and supervision.

Bigs In School is a program designed for those who may not have time outside the business day to mentor a child. Volunteers and children participating in Bigs In School meet at the child's school one day a week during the child's lunch/recess hour. Activities may include sharing lunch, playing games, helping with schoolwork or just talking and getting to know one another. Matches are made for one school year. However, it may continue during the next school year if both parties agree. All matches are supervised by a professional case manager who provides continual support and guidance. Currently, Glen Acres, Murdock, Miami, Miller, and Vinton Elementary Schools are participating in the Bigs In School program. If you would like more information, please contact Robin Loper at 446-2227 or e-mail her at robin@bbbslaf.com.

A partnership between the YMCA and Big Brothers Big Sisters provides another site-based options for volunteers. Big Brothers are matched one-to-one with children in the YMCA aftercare program who benefit from an additional positive adult friendship. Matches meet for one hour each week at the YMCA and have access to the Y facilities at no charge during their visits.

Professional staff are on call at all times to assist our volunteers with support, guidance and suggestions. Volunteers are not in this alone.

Our address is 3805 Fortune Drive, Suite 2 in Lafayette, Indiana.

Give us a call at 446-2227.