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Suppose I'm married - is that a problem?
Not at all. In fact, we encourage your spouse's support of your involvement in the program. The one-on-one time, however, is important. Family involvement can be a nice addition to, but not replacement for the one-on-one time.
What type of children are involved with the program?
Children are eligible for the program if they are from a one-parent home and between the ages of 7-14. They are screened to ensure their appropriateness for the program. Each child chooses to be involved - it's not chosen for them.
What do I do with my Little Friend?
As a Big Friend, you are not expected to lavish the child with gifts, or be a constant source of entertainment. The simpler the time spent, the better. The child needs, more than anything, someone who will be willing to listen, and cares enough to be there for them consistently. Many "Littles" report that they enjoy going to the "Bigs" home and doing hands-on projects like crafts, cooking, etc.
After I'm matched, am I on my own?
No. Your caseworker is available to answer questions, provide information, or to be a support in any way he/she can. Your caseworker will also call regularly, but don't hesitate to call if you need support. Training is provided as well.
What if my job is seasonal and/or requires travel?
If it is predictable, then we can help you plan for it with your "Little." If your work demands are unpredictable, then maybe this is not the right volunteer experience for you now. We do however have a wide range of volunteer opportunities that might better suit your schedule.
Does the match go on forever?
Each match is as different as the people involved. Some continue for years, for others the year is sufficient. Every six months the volunteer, child, parent and caseworker discuss the goals and time frame of the match. If it is time to end, the caseworker assists in the closure to create, for many for the first time, the experience of a positive ending. We have had matches that last for one year, others that become life long friendships.
What does the interviewing process entail?
Two interviews - one in the office, one a home visit, a police check, a drivers abstract and reference checks. Expect the whole process to take approximately two months.
Are there any reasons why Good Friend would not accept a volunteer?
Anyone with a felony record is automatically disqualified. Anyone who is in recovery and has less than two years sobriety would not qualify. If you have negative references you will not qualify. Good Friend is looking for responsible adults who have demonstrated social and emotional maturity and stability, want to spend time with a child, can meet the minimum commitment, and who understand and accept the mission of Good Friend. Our focus is to get to know our volunteers, not just to screen out inappropriate ones. In the event being a Good Friend is not the best choice for a potential volunteer, we will redirect them to another volunteer experience that may be more suitable.
Once I go through the interviewing process, what then?
The staff person from Good Friend will choose an appropriate child. They may even present you with a choice of three or four. You then meet with the parent in the office. If you meet with approval by the parent, a meeting is then set up for you to meet the child. The meetings most often take place in the Good Friend office.
What do I, as a volunteer, get out of being a Good Friend?
Fun. A friend. Satisfaction. While you may or may not "turn a kid's life around," you will provide an example whose impact may be immediate or may show up in later years. Mentoring is shown to be one of the best ways of helping children resist negative choices and make positive choices for themselves. You will also meet many wonderful people who, like yourself, care about their community enough to get involved - both children and adults.
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