Do you want to make a difference in someone’s life? If yes, then you have landed on the right page! Many individuals want to make a difference but are not sure how to do it. At BBBSLI, we provide a platform for such individuals to come together and impact the life of young people. Being a mentor is not simply about providing guidance, it is also about learning. There is much to give and much to gain. BBBSLI believes in making a difference together and offering volunteering opportunities in the Long Island area. Scroll down to learn more about how you can be a changemaker!
Volunteering Opportunities on Long Island with BBBSLI
There are multiple volunteering opportunities on Long Island you can explore as per your interest. If you are interested in providing mentorship to youth, then BBBSLI has multiple programs that can be of interest to you. These programs are created to help young individuals discover their potential and create meaningful lives for themselves. Below, we are mentioning some of our programs that will help you become a changemaker in a young individual’s life.
- One-on-One Match
- Site-Based Mentoring
- Bigs in Blue
- BIG Couples
- Sibling Support
- Sports Buddies
Volunteering with Children on Long Island – Experiences of Bigs
Making a difference can sometimes only mean spending a few hours a week with someone. This is exactly what our Bigs do, and the results are marvelous. Below, we are sharing two of our special stories that highlight the impact of such mentorship programs on our Bigs.
Terri & Sonia
Terri and Sonia are perfect examples of how BBBSLI matches are mutually beneficial. They can result in very special bonds that can have a wonderful impact on those involved. Terri shares that her favorite BBBSLI memory was the first time she met her Little Sonia. She says that she found the meeting boring and could tell that Sonia was unsure about the whole thing, too. However, a quick trip to get ice cream changed their dynamic significantly. After that, they had many more ice cream trips together that helped them bond better with each other.
Terri also shares what she loves the most about Sonia. She says. “What I love most about my Little Sonia is how funny and smart she is! I love that we just get each other and can find enjoyment in just being in each other’s company.” She also shares her favorite BBBSLI event, which was the Spooktacular Trunk or Treat. They both love dressing up and decorating Terri’s car.
Terri also shares how her experience as a mentor impacted her. The mentorship program has made her more compassionate and has provided her with the ability to enjoy the little things in life. She also mentions how she finds Sonia’s company to be an absolute joy. They are both equally supportive of each other, which only makes their bond more special.
Terri is thankful for her experience as a mentor and to her little, Sonia. She says, “She doesn’t realize it, but having her company was so helpful to me feeling less lonely. Involved because even though everyone likes to tell me that I’m special for being a mentor and that I’m helping to save a child, the reality is, she saved me.”
The relationship between Terri and Sonia perfectly describes how impactful the youth mentorship programs are. They are not only a helpful experience for mentees but they are also a fruitful experience for mentors. Both parties can find their lessons through these mentoring programs, and this is what makes them so special!
Zaid & Treyvon
Zaid was a Big for one year to the Little Treyvon. He shares that being part of BBBSLI has given him a renewed sense of purpose and also improved his sense of responsibility. He says, “The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island program has given me additional responsibilities to make a difference in a child’s life while balancing my own life and family. I feel so much pride in being a part of this amazing program.”
Zaid has spent memorable moments with Treyvon that have provided him with a new perspective on life. He shares that seeing his Little happy and excited to try out new things fills him with great joy. He also enjoys answering various questions that Treyvon has, and this also adds to his knowledge.
He also shares how much he enjoys spending time with his Little. He says, “What I love most about my Little Treyvon is that at age 13, he is genuine, energetic, and honest.” Clearly, the joy Treyvon feels is contagious for Zaid. He also mentions their favourite memory of attending the Brooklyn Nets playoff, which was Treyvon’s first time at a professional basketball game.
Zaid also talks about how special the bond they both share is. It is a really special relationship that helps him make a difference in Treyvon’s life. Zaid encourages everyone to be a part of the BBBSLI youth mentorship program if they can. It is a transformative experience that surely helps the mentor as well as the mentee.
How to Become a Mentor at BBBSLI
Being a mentor is certainly a fulfilling experience. You can become one, too, and if you are in the Long Island area, then BBBSLI is the perfect place for you! Before applying for any youth mentorship program, it is important to understand the eligibility criteria along with the whole application process. At BBBSLI, our application process is curated carefully to ensure we choose the best mentors for our Littles. We aim to create a perfect match between the mentor and the mentee so they can derive mutually positive results.
If you are interested in becoming a Big, we are providing you with the step-by-step guide below.
- The first step to becoming a mentor at BBBSLI is to visit our website and go to the ‘Become a Big’ section.
- You can apply online or offline. You can fill out your information on the application form online or download the application package and mail it to us at the address provided on the website.
- If you are selected, we will schedule an interview to better understand you and tell you about our programs and objectives.
- After that, we will run various tests to match you with a Little. This is followed by introduction activities so you and your mentee can meet and bond with each other.
- The match is initially supervised to make sure that both the mentor and the mentee are compatible
- Once everything is established and set, it is a continuous process where you will spend a few hours every week with your Little for at least a year.
Eligibility Criteria to Become a BIG
There are also certain eligibility criteria you should fulfil before you volunteer to become a Big at BBBSLI. We have provided the stipulations for this criteria below.
- You should be more than 18 years of age
- You should pass our background check
- You should possess a valid NY driver’s licence, insurance, and vehicle
- You should commit for at least one year
To Sum Up
It is always possible to create an impact. You can start volunteering at any time to make a difference in the lives of youth in the Long Island area. BBBSLI welcomes all eligible individuals to come and apply to be a Big. We can guarantee you that it will be a transformative experience for you. It will fill you with a sense of fulfilment and will provide you with a friend for life!
