FAQs
General information:
What is the contact information for the agency?
Big Brothers & Sisters of Portage County
705 Oakwood St., Suite 103
Ravenna, OH 44266
330.296.6655 T
330.296.6766 F
info@bbsportage.org
The process of being matched:
How will I be matched with a child?
We will get to know you through an enrollment and interview process: your likes, dislikes, your personality, background, where you live and work. This helps us to figure out what situations and what child would be the best match for you. The final decision of which child you will be matched with is yours.
How do children come into the program?
Families hear about Big Brothers & Sisters from other families in the program, from other agencies, teachers, the media, etc. All children and parents involved with our program choose to be here.
Who are the children in the program?
The boys and girls in our program come from many types of home environments and family structures, different social-economic levels, ethnic background and neighborhoods. We serve children all over Portage County.
What it's like to be a Big:
Who are the Bigs in the program?
Our volunteers are regular people from all types of different backgrounds, education levels, income levels; minimum age is 18 and there is no upper age limit. There are people interested in sports, computers, crafts, cooking, woodworking, hiking, gardening, board games, animals, etc. etc. etc.
When can I see my Little?
Bigs and Littles get together around their schedules. We ask the Bigs to see their Littles 12 hours/month, with at least three visits.
Who pays for the activities?
As a volunteer, you will pay for the activities you do with your Little. However, we encourage free activities whenever possible. We have lots of ideas for things you can do.
What are some ideas for activities to do with my Little?
Bake cookies, change the oil in your car, play a board game, go to an activity at the library, hike the local parks, go fishing, go to a high school football game, shoot hoops, jigsaw puzzles, crafts, explore a new hobby together, work in the garden. The list can go on forever!
Can I bring other people along on our outings?
In the beginning it is important for you and your Little to get to know each other. This can happen best on a one-to-one basis. Over time it is also valuable for your Little to get to know the people who are important to you. Just remember that your Little is the main focus of the relationship and there needs to be time each meeting for just the two of you.
What kind of support can I expect from Big Brothers & Sisters once I get matched?
After being matched, each volunteer, parent and child in the program is contacted by a match support specialist once a month to make sure the match is going well and everyone is doing what they are supposed to be doing. The once a month contact is the minimum requirement. You can feel free to call as often as you like - with questions, concerns or if you need ideas for activities. We are here for you!
