Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County – July 2004 Charity-of-the-Month
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County is an affiliate of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and is a non-profit agency that has helped serve the at-risk youth of Orange County for over 46 years.
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Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County
14131 Yorba Street
Suite 200
Tustin, CA 92780-2053
phone: 1-714-544-7773
fax: 1-714-544-7643
web: http://www.bigbrooc.org/
email: tjarvis@bigbrooc.org
The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County is to provide at-risk children an agency-supported one-to-one relationship with a qualified mentor in order to enrich and strengthen their lives, leading to more positive and constructive behavior. In doing this, we will empower both the children and their mentors to be more active in their communities, creating promise and opportunities for both the Littles and the Bigs.
This year marks the 100th Year Anniversary of Big Brothers Big Sisters, the oldest and largest youth mentoring organization in the United States. In 2003 Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County served over 1,493 children throughout Orange County, and as of December 31, 2003 we had over 800 active matches. The goal of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County in 2004 is to increase the number of children served and to close the year with at least 900 active matches.
VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES
* Community Based Programs: The Traditional Program, Couples for Kids, High School Mentor
* School Based Programs: Big Buddy Program, Tutor Pal, High School Bigs
* Group Programs: B.I.G. Impact, Bright Futures
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OUR PROGRAMS AT WORK
Children matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister were:
* 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs
* 98% less likely to be a teen mother
* 27% less likely to begin using alcohol
* 52% less likely to skip school
* Less likely to have violent behavior
* More confident in their schoolwork
* Better able to get along with family members
POTENTIAL VOLUNTEERS
* Are least 18 years of age (unless they are a High School Mentor)
* Have been an Orange County resident for at least one month
* Have been at their present employment for at least one month
HOW YOU CAN HELP
You can make a positive difference in a young child's life by committing as little as 4 to 5 hours a month for 6 months. There are currently over 150 children on the waiting list. Contact the recruiter at Big Brothers Big Sisters at 714-544-7773 or email him at tjarvis@bigbrooc.org for more information.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County
2004 FUNDRAISERS/SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR
July 31, 2004
2nd Annual 5K Walk/Run and Kids’ Fun Run
Location: Mission Viejo
October 9, 2004
4th Annual Mardi Gras and Casino Night
Location: Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen
November 9, 2004
40th Annual Gourmet Dinner
Location: Irvine Hyatt
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a "Big"?
A: A "Big" is an adult over the age of 18 that acts as a friend and role model to a child between the ages 6-16.
Q: What is a "Little"?
A: A "Little" is a child between the ages of 6-16, who is "in need" of someone to help increase their self-confidence, provide motivation, and better their lives with the gift of time. All children in our program have expressed an interest in having a Big Brother or Big Sister.
Q: What is a "Match"?
A: A "Big" and "Little" comprise a "Match".
Q: How much time is required?
A: You can make a positive difference in a young child's life by committing as little as 4 to 5 hours a month for 6 months.
Q: Where will my "Little" reside?
A: One factor we consider is distance. We know in order for a match to be successful that a "Big" and a "Little" must live within a 10-mile radius. Chances are there is a child in your community that needs a role model.
Q: What sort of activities do I do with my "Little"?
A: You are matched according to similar interests and likes, all you have to do is be yourself. There are many fun activities to share with your Little such as riding bicycles, going to the beach, playing ball... Remember that the gift of time is the most important factor. As a "Big" you are responsible financially for the cost of an activity. The agency urges you to pick low cost to free activities. Each month the agency has a sponsored activity for you and your Little to participate in.
Q: Is there a cost to apply to be a "Big"?
A: All our services are free to "Bigs" and "Littles". Only a $5.00 DMV fee will apply when you submit your application.
Q: How many children are waiting for a "Big"?
A: There are over 150 children currently on the waiting list for a "Big". Please call
(714) 544-7773 today and find out how you can make a difference in a child's life.
Q: Does our program work?
A: The answer is yes. Children matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister were:
* 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs
* 98% less likely to be a teen mother
* 27% less likely to begin using alcohol
* 52% less likely to skip school
* Less likely to have violent behavior
* More confident in their schoolwork
* Better able to get along with family members
Q: Will someone walk me through the process?
A: A Case Manager will be assigned to you and assist you throughout the volunteer process as well as throughout the "Match".
Q: Where do I begin?
* Yes, I am interested in more information click here
* Fill out an enrollment form on-line by clicking here
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County
14131 Yorba Street
Suite 200
Tustin, CA 92780-2053
phone: 1-714-544-7773
fax: 1-714-544-7643
web: http://www.bigbrooc.org/
email: tjarvis@bigbrooc.org
