Big Brothers Big Sisters Columbia Northwest, Community Based

A mentor, 18 years or older, is matched with a child 6 to 16 years old. The volunteer meets with the youth a couple of times a month for one year and provides a postive adult friendship.

GOAL/MISSION:
To help children in Southwest Washington reach their potential through professionally supported, one-to-one relationships with mentors.  Through dedicated, caring adult volunteers, we provide children with positive adult friendships that have a direct and lasting impact.

WHO IS MENTORED?
Our “Littles” are children 6-16 years old, who live in Clark, Cowlitz, Skamania and Wahkiakum Counties.  “Littles” enjoy exploring their community through a wide variety of experiences such as visiting museums, playing catch in the park or baking cookies.

CURRENT NUMBER OF MENTORS/MENTEES:
Currently have 300 matches.

WHO CAN MENTOR?
Big Brothers and Big Sisters come from all walks of life.  They are nurses, college students, construction workers, firefighters, lawyers, and the list goes on.  The one thing they have in common is a willingness to share some fun and friendship with a young person.  Mentors must be 18 years or older and are accepted upon completion and passing of application process, which includes: application packet, criminal background check, reference checks, and personal interview.  Mentor must have current and valid driver’s license with auto insurance. 

TRAINING REQUIRED:
No special skills are required other than a willingness to be a friend.  Volunteers are asked to attend a training session within the first three months of being matched with a child.  Additional, optional trainings are also provided by the agency throughout the year.

TIME COMMITMENT REQUIRED:
Big Brothers and Big Sisters get together with their Little Brother or Little Sister for a few hours, a couple of times a month.

LOCATION:
Office Address:
205 E. 11th St.
Suite 102
Vancouver, WA 98660
Mailing Address:
PO Box 61745
Vancouver, WA 98666