VOLUNTEER GUIDELINES Please be consistent and dependable. Your Little must LEARN to trust you. Give your Little the opportunity to help you! It will make him or her feel important. Avoid discussing your Littles situation or problems in a negative manner. Try to set small, realistic goals with your Little to build his or her personal growth. Make it fun! Small accomplishments build confidence and self-esteem. Be supportive of you Little's parent or guardian, even if you disagree with his or her words or actions. Do not interfere if the parent or guardian disciplines the child while you are present. Leave the "parenting" to the parent. Where appropriate to correct your Little's misbehavior within the context of your friendship. Simply be a friend! Say "no" to any unusual request. You are not expected to take your Little's siblings along on your outings, baby-sit or lend the parent money. Make a habit of seeing your Little on a regular basis. It is recommended that you plan activities with your Little several times a month, for several hours each visit. Establish trust with your Little, in order to build a meaningful relationship. Let your Little share in the decision making when choosing an activity. Call your Little's parent or guardian in advance of picking up the child. Always try to return your Little at the time the parent or guardian is expecting or call ahead if this time should need to be altered. A signed permission form from the Little's parent or guardian is required for overnight visits. During the first year of a match, prior consultation with and consent of Big Brothers Big Sisters is necessary. Please discuss overnight outings with the case manager before proposing such an event. Keep in touch with your Case Manager!!! It is important for the case manager to know about any problems that you may encounter. Be yourself, we trust you! CLOSE WINDOW