Big Buddy
Think back to your childhood. What can you remember doing as a family? Maybe shooting hoops, playing board games, or eating dinner together.
Big Brothers Big Sisters has partnered with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Springfield to provide that wonderful memory to children served through the club.
The Big Buddy program gives you the opportunity to spend one hour a week with a child. The program facilitates the building of friendships between mentors and kids. The mentor/child has full access to the Boys and Girls Club facilities and the option of eating a meal together. The hour may be spent participating in an activity of choice which may be shooting hoops, playing four-square, talking, or doing homework.
Boys and Girls Club staff or parents recommend a child for participation in the program. Parents must approve before a child is served. The mentor must be at least 16 years old, have reliable transportation to the club, be screened through a criminal background check, if over 18, have two references and complete a one hour mandatory training. Safety of our mentors and children is always our number one priority.
Big Buddies enrolled in this program will be asked to commit to one hour a week for a minimum of one year. They will go to one of the three local Boys and Girls Clubs and spend time with a child who needs a little extra one on one attention. Bigs and Littles may eat a free meal together or spend time getting to know each other through various fun activities. Throughout the match process, each volunteer is provided with support from the Big Brothers Big Sisters professional staff. Additionally, to ensure a successful match, evaluations are completed with both the mentor and student throughout the year. When necessary, alternative summer arrangements can be made to further the relationship.
Participating Boys and Girls Clubs of Springfield
Henderson Unit , 835 W. Calhoun, Springfield, MO 65802 (417) 862-4526
Stalnaker Unit , 1410 N. Fremont, Springfield, MO 65802 (417) 865-2821
Musgrave Unit , 720 S. Park, Springfield, MO 65802 (417) 9869-8211