About Us
Since February 1999, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Island County has provided peer mentorship; matching volunteers with a youth for positive life impact through 1 on 1 friendship.
Big Brothers Big Sisters helps children realize their potential and build their futures. We nurture children and strengthen communities. And we couldn't do any of it without you.
Started in 1999 as a grass roots organization, community members came together with a vision for the children of Island County.
For two years prior to the opening of the agency, community and board members raised funds and began the strenuous task of meeting the national standards put forth by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.
Growing from the seven children matched in 1999, we strive to continue building strong matches and our overall program for many years to come.
Mission
Provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.
Site Content
Our Programs
Community Based
The matches meet out in the community or in the Little’s home for activities based on the match’s interests and the Little’s needs. We ask that the matches meet 2-3 times a month for 1-3 hours at a time.
School Based
The matches meet 1 hour each week at the school site of the Little to work on school work, have lunch, go to recess, and help with social skills.
Serving our Community
Start Something Big
Our volunteers are carefully screened by our staff of professionals. They also provide training, ongoing support, resources and activities for our matches to enjoy.
Be who you needed when
you were growing up
Volunteer to become a Big
It’s easier than you think
You don’t need experience or special training, money or a degree – you just need to be yourself and have fun. Once you’re in, you’ll spend time with your Little on a regular basis. You will be friends. It’s as simple as that!
2-3 times a month for a few hours a visit can go a long way in building confidence and preparing a child for the future.
Parents/Guardians
Enroll your future Little
As a parent, you recognize the potential of your child better than anyone. By giving your child the opportunity to be part of Big Brothers Big Sisters, you’re starting them down a path to an even brighter, more promising future.
We'd love to hear from you!
Fun in Fundraising
Crab Boil 2017
Fantastic weather, hosted by the wonderful Mark and Kathi! There was more seafood than one could possibly eat; all in support of the youth of Island County.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Island County gives a hearty thanks to all who purchased tickets to this event at Festival of Trees. If you missed out, come bid at this year's Festival, December 1, 2017.
FAQs
Who are the littles in the program?
Our Littles come from diverse backgrounds just like our Bigs. Ages range from 6 to 14 years old. Once matched, it can continue up until the Little is 18 years old.
Who are the Bigs in the program?
Our Bigs come from diverse backgrounds just like our Littles. They are regular people, just like you. You don’t need any special degrees or job skills. You just have to want to positively impact a young person. Role models come in all shapes and sizes, and you could be a perfect fit.
What kind of support can I expect from Big Brothers Big Sisters once I get matched?
The Match Coordinator will be there to support you from beginning to end. Once a match is made the Match Coordinator supports the match with monthly contacts. This helps keep the match running smoothly, gives needed resources, and together we work on issues that may arise.
Help Our Cause
As a non-profit, we rely on grants and donations in order to provide quality service and professional support to our matches. Each match requires an investment of more than $1,200 a year. Your generous donation will fund our mission.
