GET A BIG
Help your child build confidence, connection, and a stronger future.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana connects children ages 7–16 (“Littles”) with caring, screened adult mentors (“Bigs”) who provide consistent support, encouragement, and guidance during critical years of growth.
This program is designed for parents and guardians who want an additional, trusted adult role model for their child — someone who shows up, listens, and helps them navigate everyday life.
Who This Program Is For
The Big Brothers Big Sisters program is open to:
Children and youth ages 7–16
Families in the Kentuckiana region
Parents or guardians seeking additional mentorship and support for their child
Children come to the program for many reasons — confidence-building,
social connection, academic encouragement, or simply having another trusted
adult in their corner
There is no cost to participate.
What Is a Big — and What Do They Do?
A Big is a trained adult volunteer who is matched one-to-one with your child and commits to building a long-term, supportive relationship.
Bigs and Littles typically spend time together 2–3 times per month for a couple hours at a time, doing normal, age-appropriate activities such as:
Working on homework
Playing games or sports
Talking about school, friendships, or goals
Exploring hobbies or shared interests
Spending time in the community
The goal isn’t tutoring or therapy — it’s consistency, encouragement, and connection.
Every match is supported by professional Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana staff to ensure the relationship stays safe, positive, and beneficial for your child.
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Decades of research and experience show that children matched with a Big are more likely to:
Build confidence and self-esteem
Develop stronger relationships with family and peers
Stay engaged in school
Improve emotional well-being
Make healthier choices as they grow
These outcomes don’t happen overnight. They happen through regular time, trust, and support — which is exactly what mentoring provides
Why Mentoring Matters
Safety from the start
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We work closely with families to:
Understand your child’s needs, interests, and goals
Keep you informed throughout the matching process
Provide ongoing communication and support once a match begins
You are never expected to navigate this alone. We are here to support both your child and your family.
Safety from the start
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Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana has a comprehensive screening and support process in place, including:
Background checks for all Bigs
Required training before matches begin
Staff presence at your introductory match meeting
Ongoing match support and check-ins
Professional staff oversight throughout the relationship
We are actively involved before, during, and after a match to ensure every relationship remains safe, appropriate, and positive.
Steps to getting a big
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Steps to getting a big //
- 01 -
Submit your application
Complete the online application to begin enrolling your child. Open to youth ages 7–16.
- 02 -
attend intro
orientation
Watch or attend an orientation and information session, and complete required safety training so you know what to expect.
- 03 -
your
Interview
Meet with our staff, either in person or virtually, so we can get to know you and your child and understand what will make a great match.
- 04 -
Match
Presentation
Our team identifies a potential Big for your child based on shared interests and compatibility, and shares everything you need to know before the match becomes official.
- 05 -
introductory
match meeting!
Meet your child’s Big for the first time alongside BBBSKY staff. From there, our professional team provides ongoing support and resources.
while you’re waiting
Our staff works diligently to find the best possible Big for your child.
Wait times can vary depending on preferences and volunteer availability.
While you wait, we offer free activities, events, and resources each month to help your family stay connected and engaged with our community.
Children in mentoring relationships often experience measurable, life-changing outcomes — not because of one moment, but because of ongoing support over time.
The Impact of a Big
"My Big Sister has helped me set achievable goals, excel academically, and get ready to attend college. I’m excited to have her as a friend for life.”
Recent graduate and former Little Sister Daesha
FAQs
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No. This is a free program for all families. In our School to Work and site-based programs, BBBSKY and our corporate and community partners cover all expenses. In the Community-Based program, Bigs typically cover the cost of shared activities and outings.
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We conduct in-depth interviews with Bigs, Littles, and parents or guardians to get to know each family. Matches are made thoughtfully based on shared interests, personalities, preferences, and location, with the goal of creating a safe, positive, and lasting connection.
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Match timelines vary, as we focus on finding the best possible Big for each child rather than the fastest match. While matches can be made in a matter of months, we offer free activities and ongoing support to help you stay engaged and connected while you wait.
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Yes. BBBSKY is committed to being a diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization. We welcome and support all youth, families, volunteers, and staff, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, education, income, or health condition.
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In the Community-Based program, meeting schedules are coordinated between your family and the Big. Most matches meet on weekends. We recommend meeting at least twice per month for a minimum of two hours per visit.
Ready to join our village?
When you enroll your child, you’re giving them access to a trusted mentor, a supportive community, and opportunities to grow their confidence and achieve their full potential.
