Enrollment Steps
FOREVER FRIENDSHIPS. PROVEN RESULTS.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Hampshire & Vermont is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that creates and supports life-changing mentoring relationships. We have several offices, but our work is really done in the communities we serve. We interview, hold initial match introductory meeting and have fun match activities planned in your community.
Volunteer Recruitment/Inquiry
Attracting quality mentors is at the forefront of our efforts to provide youth with ideal role models and advocates. We often say, “you don’t need to be perfect, but you do need to be present.” The right volunteer mentor/Big is someone that can be respectful, consistent and patient.
Volunteer Enrollment
Initial assessment of volunteer mentors includes a completed application, an in-depth interview, orientation, training and layered reference checks. With child safety being our utmost priority, we also conduct an in-depth review of the volunteer’s history including online database searches, state and national criminal background checks and a motor vehicle check.
Youth Enrollment
Parents who inquire about our services or are referred to by a community partner receive an initial meeting which includes an orientation about our mentoring program, program expectations and an in-depth parent and youth interview and assessment.
Pairing & Making a Match
We evaluate the characteristics of each individual mentor and mentee to pair them in a successful mentoring relationship. After carefully selecting a compatible match, our team facilitates an introductory meeting called a match meeting where everyone can meet one another for the first time and set up their first get together to get things off to a great start.
Training
Volunteer mentors, parents/guardians and youth must receive child safety and youth protection training during their orientation process. Annual required refresher training can include mentor protocols review, trauma-informed mentoring and opioid misuse prevention training plus mentor-to-mentor networking opportunities are encouraged for the duration of the match relationship. With this training, our team and mentors can better understand and respond to the physical, emotional and psychological impacts of trauma on a child, and learn strategies to help children in our program cope with these impacts.
Ongoing Match Support & Match Activities
Coaching, professional support and child-safety check-in are critical to keeping a match healthy and strong. We connect with each parent/guardian, child and volunteer monthly for the first year of the relationship to best support match development and meet youth outcome development goals. Thereafter, we make those contacts quarterly or as needed depending on the match.
Our Impact
We’re making a big impact on the youth of New Hampshire and Vermont. See the results of our efforts.
Our Board
A nonprofit needs a supportive and passionate board. Meet the generous members of our Board of Directors.
LEARN MORE. CONTACT US.
We’re here to answer any questions about our organization. We appreciate the support of our New Hampshire and Vermont community and look forward to hearing from you.