Big Brothers Big Sisters matches children ages 6 through 18 with mentors in professionally supported one-to-one relationships. We have volunteer programs in Vermilion County.

Making the Connection

Big Brothers Big Sisters has a variety of volunteer opportunities available.

Matches come together through our two essential programs:

Community-Based Mentoring : For as little as an hour a week, Bigs and Littles meet in their community to share fun activities … stories … and a little bit of themselves. 

School-Based Mentoring : Bigs and Littles meet once a week in schools, libraries and community centers, to talk and have fun. It’s not about being a tutor … it’s about being a friend. 

How a Big becomes a Big (and a Little a Little)

A lot of things have to happen before we make a match. After they express an interest in our volunteer opportunities, all our Bigs go through a thorough background check and careful interview process. Then we match Bigs and Littles based on location, personalities and preferences. And we provide full support for our volunteer programs along the way — so that matches can grow into lasting friendships.

What Bigs and Littles Do

Getting together is a great time for both, Bigs and Littles. It doesn’t require a special occasion or expensive activities; just a few hours every month sharing simple things you already enjoy with a young person. Things like….

• Shooting hoops
• Playing a board game
• Sharing a pizza
• Taking a walk in the park
• Or just hanging out and talking

Interested in Community-Based Mentoring?

Julia Ball is our Match Support Specialist.  Call her at 217-446-6601.

Interested in School-Based Mentoring?

Call 217-446-6601 and ask for Karen Allen or Chrissy Martin.

We are always looking for more MALE Mentors!

Call 217-446-6601 today or click here to fill out an online application!

Can't become a Mentor now, but want to help? Your donation will make a difference.

Calls come in every day from parents, teachers and guidance counselors. They know what a difference a mentor can make in a child’s life. Your gift can help make Big magic for children in your local community by:

• Helping us to recruit new Big Brother and Big Sister volunteers
• Ensuring that trained professionals match children to caring and
• responsible Bigs
• Offering one-on-one, ongoing supervision and support for every match
• Providing cultural and social activities to enrich the opportunities for
• children 

And 92.2% of every dollar you give goes directly to making and supporting matches; the remainder covers overall program administration.

Think about a child who has wished for a Big Brother or Big Sister. Someone to have fun with and confide in. Someone to be a mentor. A guide. A friend. Now … think of how your gift could make a difference in that child’s life.

Are YOU Ready to Get Involved?

Sign up to be volunteer, donate to support the programs, or enroll a child.