Frequently Asked Questions

General
Parents
Mentors



GENERAL:

"What is a Match Support Specialist?"

    - When a match is made between the Big and Little, the Match Support Specialist is a staff person who will stay in touch, help with questions, and work with everyone to help the match go smoothly. That person can answer questions, and help to clear any misunderstandings or miscommunications that may arise.
 
"Is there an after hours BBBS phone number for emergencies?"

    - Often match support staff are available in the Harrisburg office until 6:30 or 7:00. (717-236-0199) Susan Hair's home and cell numbers are to be used if that is not an option.  (Home - 717-561-2277)  (Cell - 717-491-7211)
 
 
 
 PARENTS:
 
"How do you decide who to match with my child?"

        - At time of interview your child's (and your) preferences, interests and activity are discussed regarding what sort of Mentor you think would work best. the same questions are [posed to the volunteers and then we match according to compatibility . Much time is taken in the matching process to ensure the best match possible - you will be contacted and told of the possibility before any volunteer is introduced to your child.
 
"How does my child meet the volunteer?"

        - The match meeting is set up by our staff. You and your child and the volunteer all come together wherever is most convenient. the staff person will speak with you and the volunteer together first, then the volunteer and your child , and then with all of you to exchange contact information and discuss anything that is needed.
 
"Can my other kids or I go along when the Big comes to take out my child?"

    - While that may work out occasionally, this is mostly a time for your child to have some individual attention. After your child and his Big have gotten to know one another, that will be something to talk more about.
 
"What if I have a problem with the Big?"

    - Any time you have concerns or questions, please contact the Match Support Specialist that is assigned to your child's match. It is that person's job to work out any communication difficulties, misunderstandings or issues of concern. If there continue to be a concern, the match support specialist will seek assistance form other staff at BBBS.



MENTORS:
 
"How are the children referred to you?"

    - All the children who want to become Littles are brought into the program by their parents. This is a completely voluntary program.
 
"How do you decide who to match with me?"

    - At time of interview for both volunteers and children a lot of discussion takes place about various preferences, interest, activities, hobbies and any other issues . Staff review this thoroughly and make recommendations for matches based on compatibility.,
 
"Do I need to spend money on my Little?"

    - At time of match, it will be explained to the parent that you are not expected to spend money on the child, If an event is planned that has an admission or other cost, it's recommended that you speak with the parent ahead of time so that the child can be prepared to pay his own way.
 
"What if he's not home when I go to pick him up?"

    - This might be the sort of thing that could occur because of a miscommunication. You would want to call the parent later to check that both of you had the same understanding. If this continues as a problem, please discuss with your Match Support.
 
"What if no one's home when I go to drop him off?"
 
    - Hopefully this won't occur, but emergencies do happen. It's good to have a way to contact the parent on cell phone cell phone. In lieu of that, perhaps another contact person or relative's info would be good to have.
 
"Can I introduce him to my friends?"

   - Certainly involving your Little in social activities is an important component of your friendship. You'll want to always make sure the child's parent is aware of and approves the activities. It is not acceptable, however, to leave the Little with your friends or neighbors if something should come up. while there may be occasions of group activities and events, this is primarily a time for you and your Little to have one-to-one time to develop that bond and friendship.