VOLUNTEER application form
Have some extra time? Looking to make a difference?
Please read our FAQ to find out what program interests you.
If you have any questions please call us at (519) 941-6431.
FAQ
What is the time requirement to be a Mentor?
The time requirement is once a week for two hours, or once every two weeks for two hours.
What is Mentoring all about and how does it make a difference?
Mentoring is about being a positive role model and friend to a child or youth. This helps the child or youth who are facing adversities to have a dependable, honest, and fun Mentor to help them grow as people and see their potential through experiences and social interactions. For just a few examples of how mentors make a difference please see our Stories page.
Is there a commitment time?
The minimum commitment we ask for is 1 year for the one-to-one mentoring. If that doesn’t work for you but you are still looking to volunteer, you can always check to see if we need single event volunteers as well as in-school mentors.
How long does the intake process take for a Mentor?
It depends on how busy the office is as well as how quickly the volunteer is to get back to us with their papers and training. It can all be done in about a month if all goes smoothly.
Please note that even if we are able to get your mentoring screening and training done quickly, we won’t always have a youth available for matching right away.
How is a mentee picked for me? Do I have a say?
Yes, you do. And so do they. Both parties have to agree to be matched before a match meeting is set up. The Caseworker will provide possible match options based on personalities and interests.
Where do I get my Vulnerable Sector Check done?
After your interview, if you are selected to move forward we will give you a letter to get a Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC). The VSC can be done on the OPP website. Make sure to select the correct detachment closest to where you live in order for it to go smoothly. Detachments will be listed on the website as well.
Does Mentoring with Big Brothers Big Sisters cost a lot of money?
No, volunteering only costs money if you personally want to spend money during your match outings. It is by no means required and matches can still thrive without spending money. There are always free things to do in the area, make sure to keep up with community
What can I do if I need support with an issue in my match?
Contact the office to speak with the Caseworker at 519.941.6431 or email our caseworker listed in the Contact Us section of our website. You will also have the Caseworkers information before being matched.
Do I need to have access to a car?
For our agency it would be best to have access to a car if you want to be a mentor because we serve more than just Orangeville. That said if you live in town and get to and from places frequently without the use of a car we might be able to match you with someone who is close.
What if I can’t see my mentee for a week or two because I’m on vacation, going through exams, or away on a business trip?
Occasional absences are to be expected, whether for vacations, work responsibilities, or illness. If you are gong to miss an outing, discuss your plans with your caseworker as well as your mentee/ your mentees parents prior to your absence so that everyone can be informed.
How it Works
How The Volunteering Process Works
The order of the steps in the application and assessment process can vary from agency to agency, but the following is a general overview of the process. You, the volunteer applicant:
- Completes an application with their local agency
- Submits a vulnerable sector screen, criminal records check, and three or four references
- Participates in a one-to-one interview with a staff member at the Big Brothers Big Sisters agency
- Depending on the program, may be asked to participate in an assessment of their home environment
- Successfully completes an orientation and child safety training
- Is notified of their acceptance/non-acceptance
- If accepted as a volunteer mentor, signs an agreement of confidentiality
The Matching Process
Similar to the application and assessment process, the matching process can vary from agency to agency and from program to program, but in general:
- The caseworker, now familiar with the volunteer and the children and youth waiting to be matched, discusses a potential match with the volunteer, the child or youth, and, depending on the program, with the family
- The caseworker arranges for a meeting between the child or youth, the volunteer mentor, and often the parent or guardian
If everyone agrees, the match can begin!