Big Couples Program is part of BBBSLI’s Community‑Based Mentoring lineup, alongside One‑to‑One Matches and Sibling Support Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island. In this model, spouses or long‑term partners volunteer together to mentor a single Little. They can engage jointly in activities or split time individually, offering a rich blend of perspectives and attention Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
Why Two Bigs Are Better Than One
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Diverse Role Modeling: Littles see both male and female (or two complementary) role models navigating life together—strengthening lessons about teamwork, respect, and partnership Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
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Enhanced Stability: With two Bigs sharing responsibilities, match consistency is higher; if one Big is unavailable, the other ensures continuity Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
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Broader Skill Set: Each partner brings unique strengths—academic help, career advice, creative pursuits—resulting in a more holistic mentorship Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
Program Intricacies
Matching and Training
BBBSLI staff conduct thorough interviews, background checks, and specialized Big Couples training Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island. Couples discuss their joint interests—be it hiking the Greenbelt preserves or attending a Long Island Ducks game—to help coordinators pair them with a Little who will benefit most Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
Commitment and Activities
Big Couples commit to at least two outings per month, each 2–4 hours long, blending low‑cost local experiences—beach clean‑ups at Jones Beach, culinary explorations in Patchogue, or youth sports at local parks Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island. These shared adventures foster trust, cultural pride, and community connection.
Ongoing Support
A dedicated Match Support Specialist checks in monthly, offers activity ideas, and provides coaching on any challenges Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island. BBBSLI also hosts quarterly Big Couples mixers—networking events where couples swap stories and best practices.
Benefits for Littles
Deeper Emotional Security
Having two consistent adult mentors reduces youth isolation and builds resilience. Littles report feeling safer and more supported when they know two caring adults are in their corner Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
Improved Social Skills
Shared activities model healthy communication and conflict‑resolution. Littles learn firsthand how partners collaborate, negotiate, and celebrate successes together Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
Cultural Connection
Long Island’s family‑oriented culture—shoreline traditions, local sports fandom, community festivals—comes alive when experienced with a Big Couple. Littles gain pride in their hometown and its traditions .
Why BBBSLI Needs More Big Couples
Addressing Youth Needs
With rising youth mental‑health challenges and family stresses, dual‑mentor support offers an extra layer of stability and attention that many Littles desperately need Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
Strengthening Community Fabric
Big Couples strengthen community bonds—demonstrating partnership, volunteerism, and local pride. Their visibility at events inspires others to get involved Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
Amplified Impact
Studies show that multi‑mentor models yield higher retention and greater youth outcomes than single‑mentor matches alone Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island.
How to Become a Big Couple
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Attend a Big Information Session: Learn program specifics and meet BBBSLI staff.
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Complete Application & Screening: Couples undergo joint interviews, background checks, and training.
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Get Matched & Start Mentoring: Plan your first outing—whether a walk along the boardwalk or a visit to a local museum—and begin shaping a Little’s future together.
