Big Brothers & Sisters of Dartmouth-Halifax Metro Area

"Give A Little Time, Make a Big Impression. Be a Big Brother or a Big Sister"

Big Brothers and Sisters are friends -- buddies to Little Brothers and Sisters.

Remember that. It's important. And remember, with a friend you can wash a car, fly a kite, take a walk, build a model, ride bikes, play ball, read books, attend a sports event or just talk.

Friends share time and interests...
and Big Sisters and Brothers are good friends!

What is Big Brothers/Sisters?

We're an organization dedicated to helping in the development of children growing up in single-parent families.

There are over 700,000 boys and girls in Canada who live with one parent. Not all of them need or want another adult in their live -- but many do. These are the children we serve.

Big Brothers of Canada has developed to the point where today there are 175 agencies across the country. Almost half of them are joint Big Brother/Big Sister agencies. Each agency has a Board of Directors made up of a cross section of members of the community. In most cases, these Boards employ staff, including social workers, who carry on the day to day casework of the agencies.

Who Are Big Sisters and Big Brothers?

A Big Sister or Brother is an adult from any walk of life, married or single, with or without children, who is able to share their time and friendship with a child on a consistent Basis.

Who are Little Brothers and Sisters?

A Little Brother or Sister is a child, generally between the ages of 6 and 16, growing up in a single-parent family. To be in the program the boy or girl must want a Big Brother or Sister as a friend. The parent of the Little Sister or Brother must want the friendship for the child too.

(A Big Sister or Brother is affectionately known in our organization as a 'Big" and the young friend, a "Little".)

How are Bigs and Littles "Matched"?

Not easily. Our goal is a good match that meets the child's needs. That is why we take great care in screening potential Big Brothers and Sisters. All prospective volunteers are carefully interviewed, and a thorough inquiry is done to ensure that they are reliable, caring adults. We get to know the child and his or her family, carefully noting likes, dislikes, temperament, interests, age and personality.

Then, it is the caseworker's job to decide which Big and Little make the best "match"... and the achievement of a good match is a matter of great pride among our staff.

What Happens after a Match is Made?

After the Big and Little meet, the caseworker stays in touch to provide any needed help as they establish their friendship.

How Do we Measure Our Success?

Our focus is on prevention of problems and often that is hard to measure. But success can be seen through better school work, improved behaviour, or sometimes it is as simple as seeing a smile that was not there before.

How Much Are Bigs Paid?

Nothing. They are volunteers along with many others who help the organization to operate.

Do Bigs Assume Any Legal or Financial Obligations?

Volunteers are expected to be responsible and careful when sharing activities with their young friends so that potential dangerous or hurtful situations are avoided.

Some incidental costs may be incurred on outings, but volunteers are not expected to spend a lot of money on the child. Remember buddies don't buy friendship.

If you think you'd like to become a Big Brother or Sister, call your local agency. You will be provided with all the information you need to get involved.

For further information contact:

Big Brothers & Sisters at: (902) 466-KIDS (5437)

Big Brothers & Sisters of Dartmouth-Halifax Metro Area