Give a Little time
Just 4 hours a month can change a lifetime! Be the steady, caring presence a child needs to dream bigger, grow stronger, and believe in their potential.
mentoring opportunities
Volunteers meet with their Littles twice a month for activities like visiting the zoo, playing catch, or taking a walk. A one-year commitment is required .
Volunteers meet with their Littles at school for 30–60 minutes each week during or after school hours, engaging in activities like homework help, games, or conversation. A one-year commitment is required
Additional programs include "I Am Enough," Future Pathways, Prevention-Focused Mentoring, Sports Buddies, and Group Mentoring, all designed to address specific needs within the community
Why Mentor?
Because one consistent, caring adult can change everything.
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa, we believe in the incredible power of connection. Becoming a mentor—or a “Big”—means showing up just a few hours a month to make a life-changing difference for a child or teen in your community.
You don’t need special training or a packed calendar. You just need to care.
What You'll Do
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As a Big, you'll be matched with a Little based on shared interests, personality, and preferences. Together, you’ll spend time doing simple things that matter: shooting hoops, grabbing ice cream, visiting a museum, or just talking about life.
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All it takes is a minimum of 4 hours a month. That’s one hour a week to spark confidence, curiosity, and hope in a young person who needs it most.
What You'll Give
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Your time – A small monthly commitment that makes a lifelong impact
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Your perspective – Help a child see new possibilities for their future
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Your support – Be a trusted role model through life’s challenges and milestones
What You’ll Get
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The joy of watching a young person grow
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A deeper connection to your community
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A meaningful experience that impacts you just as much as it does them
The Impact Is Real
Mentored youth are:
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More likely to graduate high school and pursue college
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Less likely to engage in risky behaviors
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More confident in themselves and their future
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Who can become a Big?Anyone 18 or older who can commit to consistent mentorship and pass a background check can apply. We welcome mentors from all walks of life—diverse backgrounds and experiences are what make our matches so impactful!
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What is the time commitment?We ask for a minimum of 4 hours per month for at least one year. This could mean meeting once a week or twice a month—it’s about consistency, not quantity.
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What will I do with my Little?Activities are simple and based on shared interests: play a sport, visit a park, cook a meal, go to a museum, or just hang out and talk. We provide support, ideas, and resources to help make your match fun and meaningful.
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Do I need special training or experience?No special experience is required! We provide orientation, training, and ongoing support from a dedicated Match Support Specialist to help you feel confident and connected throughout your journey.
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How are Bigs and Littles matched?Matches are made based on compatibility—interests, personalities, background preferences, and location. We take great care in finding a fit that feels natural and supportive for both the Big and the Little.
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What if I get busy or something changes?We understand life happens. If your availability changes, just communicate with your Match Support Specialist. We’ll work with you to ensure the relationship remains positive and healthy.
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Can I volunteer with a friend or partner?Absolutely! We offer Big Couple and Big Family match options where two adults mentor a child together.
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Is it safe?Yes. We have a thorough screening process for both Bigs and Littles, and we require regular check-ins to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved
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Does it cost anything to volunteer?There is no fee to volunteer. You may choose to spend money on outings, but we encourage free or low-cost activities. We even offer free match events and ideas throughout the year!
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How do I get started?Start by filling out the online inquiry form or application on our website. From there, we’ll walk you through the interview, background check, and training process to get you ready to be matched.
BIG STORIES
"By volunteering as a Big, I am able to give my Little representation and the opportunity to explore new things. We enjoy trying different foods and attending BBBSIA sponsored activities. I am proud of the relationship we've built. "
BBBSIA Big Sister
Janae Gray
" A child is genuine, authentic and will always see things in a different light many times than adults. Adults tend sometimes to think they know it all or they can be cynical about life but a child, especially in Jasper's case, it means a lot to me to see the world through his eyes."
BBBSIA Big Brother
John Rodgers
" Having our relationship evolve from a match relationship to a true sister friendship has been so special and so meaningful to me."
BBBSIA Big Sister
Katie Mortiz