Becoming a Big with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island (BBBSLI) is a life-changing opportunity—not just for the youth you mentor, but for you as well. When you step into this role, you’re not only sharing your wisdom and experience; you’re also forming a bond that can transform both lives. One of the most critical steps in your mentorship journey is finding the right match—choosing the “Little” whose needs, personality, and interests align with what you have to offer. Here are some key insights and tips on how to choose the right Little while embracing your role as a Big.
Understand Your Role as a Big
Before you start thinking about the right match, it’s important to reflect on what you can bring to the table. As a Big, you are a guide, a friend, and a role model. Ask yourself:
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What are my strengths, hobbies, and life experiences that could benefit a young person?
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How much time and energy can I commit to fostering a meaningful relationship?
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What kind of support (academic, emotional, career advice) do I feel most passionate about providing?
A clear understanding of your own attributes helps you recognize which Little might benefit most from your unique perspective.
Identify Key Qualities in a Potential Little
BBBSLI carefully matches mentors with mentees to ensure the best possible fit. When considering what to look for in a Little, think about:
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Interests and Passions: Does the Little show interest in areas where you have expertise or passion? Whether it’s sports, arts, academics, or community service, a shared interest can serve as the perfect conversation starter.
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Need for Guidance: Look for young people who might be facing challenges in school or at home. A Little who is eager for direction and support will be more receptive to your guidance.
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Open-Mindedness: A mentee who is willing to learn, grow, and listen will benefit greatly from your mentorship.
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Cultural and Community Connection: On Long Island, local context matters. A Little who shares similar community values or has a story rooted in our local environment can create a deeper, more relatable bond.
Align Your Values and Interests
The ideal match is about more than just complementary skills—it’s about a shared vision. Consider the following:
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Local Background: Long Island has a rich culture and unique community challenges. A Little who understands local dynamics or has roots in the area may benefit from a mentor who can relate to that context.
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Future Aspirations: Talk about future goals during your initial meetings. Does the Little dream of pursuing higher education, starting a business, or excelling in a sport? Your ability to help navigate these aspirations can be a crucial factor in the match.
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Personality Fit: Sometimes it comes down to a gut feeling. Trust your instincts when you sense that a personal connection is strong—this emotional bond is the foundation of a successful mentorship.
Navigating the BBBSLI Matching Process
BBBSLI has a thorough screening and matching process designed to ensure that both Bigs and Littles are set up for success. Here’s how you can make the most of it:
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Attend Orientation Sessions: These sessions provide a deeper understanding of BBBSLI’s values and the matching criteria. They also give you a chance to meet other Bigs and learn from their experiences.
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Be Open and Honest: During the application and interview process, clearly communicate your interests, strengths, and expectations. This helps program coordinators match you with a Little who is a good fit.
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Stay Patient: Sometimes it takes time to find the right match. Trust that the BBBSLI team is working to pair you with someone whose journey you can positively influence.
Embracing Your Journey as a Big
Once matched, remember that every relationship is a learning process. Here’s how to foster a successful mentorship:
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Set Clear Goals Together: Discuss what both of you hope to achieve. Whether it’s improved grades, enhanced self-esteem, or new hobbies, setting goals can give your meetings direction and purpose.
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Be Consistent: Regular and dependable interactions build trust and show your Little that you’re committed to their success.
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Keep Communication Open: Encourage honest discussions about challenges and progress. This openness strengthens your bond and helps both of you grow.
Choosing the right Little when you become a Big is an essential part of creating a powerful, transformative mentorship. By reflecting on your strengths, identifying the key qualities you seek in a mentee, and aligning your values with the unique local culture of Long Island, you can form a match that makes a lasting impact. With BBBSLI’s supportive matching process, you’re not just choosing a mentee—you’re becoming a guiding force in someone’s life and a vital part of a community legacy that transforms futures.
Embrace the opportunity, trust your instincts, and get ready to make a difference. Your journey as a Big begins with choosing the perfect match—one that will illuminate the path to a brighter future for both of you.
