SPORTS BUDDIES

Sports Buddies is a one-to-one mentoring program that connects mentors and youth through a shared participation in sports and activities that support a healthy, active lifestyle.

Sports Buddies activities range from attending a professional or collegiate sporting event to hiking, bowling, and creating healthy snacks and meals. The goal is to expose young people to an active lifestyle while supporting their development and igniting their potential. 

HOW IT WORKS

  1. Fill out the online inquiry form by clicking either the "Become a Big" or "Enroll a Child" button below
  2. Big Brothers Big Sisters will interview applicants and provide an orientation and volunteer training
  3. Matches will be made based on personality, interests and preferences.

REQUIREMENTS
Matches will meet twice a month and will commit to at least 6 months together. Activities are planned, facilitated, and monitored by Sports Buddies staff. Families will provide transportation to and from events for the Littles.

WHAT TO EXPECT
The majority of the events will take place on weekends and will last an average of 2-4 hours. Activities will range from spectator sports including professional, collegiate, and high school basketball, football, soccer, lacrosse, and baseball to participatory activities like capture the flag, dodgeball, kickball, flag football, Ultimate Frisbee, hiking, and fishing. There will be a general focus on being active and making healthy choices.

THE RESULTS
Studies show that children who have role models are more likely to improve in school and in their relationships with family and friends, and less likely to skip school or use illegal drugs or alcohol. Students who are successful in school are less likely to drop out, abuse drugs, or commit crimes.