Community Based Big

Position Title: Community-Based Big (Volunteer Mentor)Organization: Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central OhioLocation: Community-Based (Tuscarawas, Carroll & Harrison Counties)Position Type: Volunteer (Unpaid)Position SummaryCommunity-Based Bigs serve as positive role models and mentors (“Bigs”) to youth (“Littles”) in the community. Through consistent engagement, encouragement, and friendship, Bigs help Littles build confidence, develop life skills, and achieve brighter futures.Program ImpactVolunteers play a vital role in helping youth achieve:Higher aspirations, greater confidence, and stronger relationshipsAvoidance of risky behaviorsEducational successKey ResponsibilitiesBuild a supportive, consistent friendship with your assigned Little as a mentor—not a parent or disciplinarianMeet with your Little for a minimum of 4 hours per month (at least two outings recommended)Maintain regular communication with the Little’s parent/guardian to coordinate all activities, including pick-up/drop-off detailsEnsure the safety and well-being of your Little at all times; never leave them in the care of another individualMaintain consistent communication with your Match Support Coordinator (MSC):Monthly contact during the first yearQuarterly contact after the first yearParticipate in periodic program surveysPlan and participate in low-cost or no-cost activities in the communityProvide advance notice to families if scheduling changes are necessary; avoid cancellations when possibleReport any behavioral concerns or incidents to the parent/guardian and MSCMaintain updated contact information with the agencySafety & Conduct ExpectationsNo use of alcohol prior to or during time spent with your LittleStrict prohibition of illegal drug use, misuse of prescription medication, or marijuana use at any timeMaintain appropriate physical boundaries at all times (no roughhousing, wrestling, tickling, or similar behaviors)Overnight visits or trips are strictly prohibitedVisits to the volunteer’s home or other non-public places are not permitted during the first 3 months and require prior approval and inspection afterwardVolunteers must be the sole approved driver when transporting Littles; all passengers must wear seatbelts (children 12 and under should ride in the back seat)Financial ExpectationsVolunteers are responsible for covering the cost of outingsActivities should remain affordable and accessibleGifts are optional and require approval from the parent/guardian and MSCMinimum QualificationsMust be at least 18 years of ageAbility to commit to the program for a minimum of 18 monthsWillingness to engage in consistent, in-person mentoring (minimum 4 hours per month)Completion of required training and onboarding processSuccessful completion of a background checkValid driver’s license, proof of automobile insurance, and willingness to complete a motor vehicle record checkStrong communication skills and reliabilitySupport ProvidedOngoing guidance and support from a dedicated Match Support CoordinatorTraining resources and mentorship best practicesAccess to program activities and community resourcesMake an ImpactBy becoming a Community-Based Big, you are helping to defend potential and empower youth in your community—one meaningful connection at a time.