Become a Big

Becoming a Big Brother, Big Sister, or Big Couple is one of the most meaningful ways to give back in Southern Arizona. With just a few hours each month, you can help shape a young person’s future in powerful and lasting ways.

The Power of Becoming a Big

You might shoot hoops at the park, grab pizza after school, explore a new hobby, or simply talk about life. You might also spend time at our newly opened Mentoring Activity Center, a welcoming space created specifically for Bigs and Littles to connect and plan meaningful time together. What matters most is showing up. When a child knows someone is in their corner, confidence grows. Goals feel possible. Futures expand.

Many Bigs say the experience changes them just as much as it changes their Little. What begins as volunteering often becomes a meaningful friendship built on trust, laughter, and growth.

If you’re ready to invest in a child’s future — and your own growth — the next step is simple.

How to Become a Big

Every child has potential. Not every child has someone consistently in their corner.

In Southern Arizona, hundreds of young people are waiting for a mentor — someone who listens, encourages, and believes in them.

Ready to make a difference? Here’s how to get started.

Step 1:

Volunteer Information Session

Your first step is to learn more about what it means to become a Big.

Start by watching our short Volunteer Information Session. It walks you through our programs, time commitment, and what to expect.

Step 2:

Volunteer Orientation

Once you’ve watched the Volunteer Information Session and are ready to move forward, please register to access our 30-minute Volunteer Orientation webinar to learn more about enrolling as a Big Mentor.

If you have questions at any time, please contact:

Sandi Lee, Customer Relations Specialist

Step 3:

Application & Interview

Once you have completed the 30-minute recorded webinar, you will be invited by email to submit your application and schedule your interview.

Step 4:

Safety Screening

After you submit your application and complete your interview, you’ll receive instructions to schedule your online safety training, fingerprinting, and background check.

Step 5:

Get Matched!

Once approved, our team will match you with a Little whose needs and interests align with yours. And when all parties agree, a Match Introduction is scheduled!

Who Can Become a BIG?

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds, careers, and life experiences. What matters most is consistency, reliability, and a genuine desire to show up for a child.

To become a Big, you must:

Live in Southern Arizona
Be at least 18 for the Community-Based program
Be at least 21 for the Site-Based Mentor2.0 program
Have reliable transportation
Have a valid driver’s license and insurance
Demonstrate stability and consistency

Couples may apply together as Big Couples.

Our process is thorough because safety matters. Our support is strong because relationships matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before you apply: The Volunteer Information Session and Orientation video answer these topics in greater detail. Watching both is required before advancing in the process.

How long does the process take from application to match?

The enrollment process typically takes 8–12 weeks, depending on how quickly interviews are scheduled and required documents are submitted.

Once your application, interview, background checks, and training are complete, our team carefully works to identify a strong match based on interests, personality, and needs. We prioritize quality and safety over speed to ensure the best possible start for both you and your Little.

Who are the children served in these programs?

Our Community-Based program serves youth ages 6–14 at enrollment who live throughout Southern Arizona. Many come from single-parent households or are navigating financial challenges or other life transitions. All of them want a mentor and are ready for connection.

Our Mentor 2.0 program serves high school students, currently freshmen at Tucson High School and Sunnyside High School. These students are at a pivotal stage as they prepare for graduation and begin thinking about college, careers, and their future paths. They are seeking encouragement, accountability, and a consistent adult who believes in their potential.

Across all programs, our youth reflect the diversity of Southern Arizona. While every child’s story is different, they share one powerful common thread: they benefit from having someone who shows up.

What exactly does a Big do?

A Big is a consistent, caring adult. You are not a parent, therapist, or social worker. Your role is to listen, encourage, support goals, and show up reliably. The relationship grows at your Little’s pace.

How much time does mentoring require?

Community-Based Bigs meet with their Little at least twice per month for a full year. Mentor 2.0 Bigs commit to four hours per month during the academic year. Consistency matters more than perfection.

What kind of activities do Bigs and Littles do together?

Activities are simple and low-cost. You might take a walk, cook together, visit the park, attend a free match event, or spend time at our Mentoring Activity Center. The goal is connection, not entertainment.

What support will I receive?

You are never on your own. Each match is assigned a Match Support Specialist who checks in monthly during the first year, offers guidance, and helps navigate challenges. Safety and support are built into the program.

What if my Little shares something serious?

If a child discloses something concerning, you thank them for trusting you and contact your Match Support Specialist immediately. You are not expected to investigate or solve the issue. Just listen, support, and report.

Can couples volunteer together?

Yes. Big Couples may mentor one Little together in our Community-Based program.

Is there a cost to volunteer?

No. Background checks and fingerprinting are covered by the agency.

What happens when a match ends?

All matches move through a structured closure process guided by staff to ensure the child feels supported and valued. Many matches last well beyond the minimum commitment.

Ready to Make a Big Impact?

Take the first step toward becoming a mentor and changing a child’s future — and your own.