Lisa Schwantes

Review of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ce...

I completely disagree with what "Z" reviewed. You ...

I completely disagree with what "Z" reviewed. You don't have to spend ANY money at all with your Little on your outings. In fact, the office actually tells you to have a budget you are comfortable with each month maybe $50, but no more. They advise against spending a lot of money on your outings. You are not there as a match, to babysit a little or provide to them any superficial or material goods at their parent's request. If you have issues like that, you should be calling and talking to your Match Specialist. Some people do not have the same experiences or do have situations where the parents or even child, may try to take advantage of the Big. However, it was made very clear to me during my interview process that this is not condoned at all.
I rarely spend a lot of money outside of the occasional trip to the movies, which can be pricey. But on most outings, we do very cost-effective or free things like: walking around the farmers market, grabbing coffee/drink and going for a walk, visiting the bookstore, attending art shows, free yoga classes, etc. Depending on what your Little enjoys. I also have control over what we do and offer suggestions to her. Sometimes I ask her for ideas and I decide based on finances, etc.
You are still the adult and have the right to say no, and offer other ideas. And create a budget together, which was an idea from the office, and then the Little can help out and understand when they have maxed out their outings budget and plan free things to do.

Long post but I have had a great experience with BBBS and my match and their family. I know not everyone does but I definitely think it is not a reason to not become a Big with them. It is an involved process, so if it's not for you, I don't recommend volunteering.