Step Up as a Big
HELP BOYS ACROSS COLORADO SEE WHAT'S POSSIBLE
Did someone believe in you when it mattered? Or do you remember wishing someone had? Either way, you know how far encouragement can go. Becoming a Big is your chance to be that support for a boy who just needs someone consistent in his corner.
You’re in the right place!
The options are unlimited, just like a Little’s potential.
There’s no script. No perfect playbook. Just real moments that build real trust, over time. A few hours a month is all it takes. Share a laugh. Shoot hoops. Talk about life over lunch. Your presence can shift his perspective and help him imagine something bigger for himself.
Mentorship That Makes a Difference
Across Colorado, many boys are growing up without a consistent male role model. Some face challenges at home or in school. Others just need someone to show them they matter.
That’s where you come in.
Be the Role Model They Remember
As a male Big, you don’t have to be perfect - you just have to be present. Whether you're tossing a football, talking about music, or grabbing tacos, it’s the trust you build that creates lasting change. Littles with mentors like you grow more confident, more connected, and more hopeful about their futures.
Lead by Living Your Values
Many men in our program say they joined to give back - but ended up gaining just as much. You might find a renewed sense of purpose. You might be surprised by how much fun you’ll have. And you’ll absolutely make a difference, one outing at a time.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado provides training, ongoing support, and flexibility to help you succeed. You’ll have a team behind you, and a Little who’s excited to meet you. If you’ve been looking for a meaningful way to give back, this is it.
Steps to Becoming a Mentor
Signing up to be a Big takes just a few simple steps—and we’ll guide you the whole way.
Step #1
Complete an online application and an online, take-anytime training.
Step #2
You'll then do a background check (there is a one-time $60 background check fee), and we'll contact references.
Pikes Peak applicants, please click here for extra instructions.
Step #3
We will schedule an interview to learn more about you!
Have Questions About becoming a Big?
How often do Bigs and Littles get together?
It depends on the program. Community-based matches usually meet 2-4 times per month. Site-based matches meet 1-2 times monthly through group activities. It’s flexible and built around real connection.
How long can a match last?
We ask for a one-year commitment, but many matches last much longer, even through high school and beyond.
What support is provided to our match?
Once you are matched with your Little, your program specialist will be in regular contact with you to help answer questions and give feedback. Each match is supported by a program specialist. They’ll help you with ideas for activities, provide guidance for handling anything that may arise, and support with feedback on how you are making a difference.
Do the parents and children want to be in the program?
Parents that enroll their children in the BBBSC program want the very best for their children. They see the benefits of introducing another caring adult role model into their life. Many say their children’s Bigs can talk to them about issues too difficult for a child to broach with a parent. Parents often say introducing a Big into their child’s life changed their Little forever and had a positive impact for the entire family. BBBSC only enrolls children who want and need the program and whose parents specifically want them to be in the program. The result is 100% of the children enrolled are ready and excited about being matched with a Big.
How do I choose my Little?
This is what is unique about BBBSC. We don’t just select the next child on the list and match them with the next Big. Each Big and Little are initially matched by BBBSC based on compatibility and proximity to each other. Our Enrollment Specialists get to know each Big, parent and Little enrolled in the program. They get to know their interests, hobbies, what they are looking for in a match, and much more. This is crucial because once a volunteer is accepted into the program, an Enrollment Specialist will begin searching for a Little they think would make the ideal match.
What do I do with my Little?
Activities are dependent on the program enrolled in. Some activities are coordinated by the program, attending a sporting event or a fun outdoor activity planned independently. Bring your Little on activities you were already going to do. Keep it simple and focus on getting to know each other. BBBSC also hosts great match activities that Bigs/Littles are invited to. Bigs also occasionally will receive free tickets donated to BBBSC (events, concerts, outdoor adventures, games, shows, etc.) that program specialists distribute to matches.
Do Bigs receive any help or training once matched?
Yes, we provide home visits that will serve as an in-person training and the BBBSC staff will walk you through situational scenarios to help prepare you for your match. In addition, your program specialist will be there every step of the way to offer customized support while you are matched. We also partner with several organizations to provide ongoing workshops and trainings to better support you and your Little.
Can I choose whether I want a Little Sister or a Little Brother?
BBBSC generally makes same gender matches, meaning Big Brothers are matched with Little Brothers and Big Sisters are matched with Little Sisters. BBBSC is inclusive and honors gender identity, Bigs and Littles from the LGBTQ+ community and gender expressions that do not fit into binary gender labels. BBBSC works with all parties of a prospective match – the youth, parent(s) and volunteer – to make strong mentoring matches consistent with the matching preferences of all parties of the prospective match.
What if it doesn’t work out?
We have a lot of experience making long-lasting matches. However, sometimes things come up — Bigs or Littles move, situations change, or something doesn’t work out. We will attempt to mediate the situation, but if it doesn’t work, we will close the match. If this happens, your program specialist will be there to support you, your Little, and your Little’s parent(s) every step of the way and handle it in the best way possible.
What if I have a criminal background history?
Mentors come from all walks of life and backgrounds, and we understand everyone makes mistakes. A previous conviction or arrest is something we carefully review and assess on an individual basis. If you have concerns or questions about being disqualified due to a previous arrest or conviction, please email Enrollment@BigLittleColorado.org and we can explore if our programs are a good fit for you. We do not accept volunteers with any history of a crime against a child.
Is there a cost to the background check?
Yes, there is a one-time fee of $60 to complete the background check.
Your Story as a Big Can Inspire the Next
Have you mentored with us before? Whether you shared a laugh that turned into trust or helped a Little through a big moment, your story could inspire another man to say yes. We’d love to hear how mentoring has shaped your journey.