Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore

Mission Statement

There are two core Big Brothers Big Sisters programs: Community-Based Mentoring and Site-Based Mentoring. There are also several program variations in which Community or Site programs address specific categories of children, volunteers or partners and their particular needs or the opportunities they present. Variations may occur in location (where meetings take place), frequency (how often volunteers and youth meet), duration (how long their relationship continues) and activities (what they do together when the meet).

Community-Based Mentoring
Volunteer "Bigs" provide children, "Littles," individualized time and attention at least twice a month during community-based and guardian-approved activities. During unstructured weekly or bi-weekly outings the match develops a relationship in which the Little gains new skills, explores new interests, and participates in activities that expand the Little's experience-base beyond the child's family or neighborhood. Over the course of time, children gain confidence in themselves, acquire new skills and competencies, and develop an enhanced capacity to care for others.

Site-Based Mentoring
Volunteers offer Littles individualized time and attention on a consistent basis, at a pre-determined site under staff supervision. Teachers and administrators refer the youth and the match meets regularly during the school year - typically each week, utilizing the resources available within the site: computer labs, the library, the gym, a classroom, or the schoolyard. With parental permission, Bigs and Littles may have email and phone contact. Matches that do not have permission can exchange letters and post cards through BBBS during school breaks. Agency sponsored events are offered to participants and their families during the summer months.