This program is all about individualized attention and time spent with an adult volunteer and a child. Activities typically last 2 to 4 hours and occur twice a month. The mentor (Big) picks up the child (Little) at the child's home for a free or low cost community activity during which a child may learn new skills, explore new interests, or expand their experience beyond their family and neighborhood. Activities can be anything the two can dream up from hiking at a park, kayaking/canoeing, mountain biking, fishing, shooting hoops, baking a cake, going to the library, eating ice cream or just playing on the beach. Most match activities occur on the weekend but after school is fine, too depending on the Big’s and Little’s schedule. A minimum of a one year commitment is required so that the relationship has a chance to grow and develop, allowing enough time to foster the Little's ability to manage the everyday challenges that are a part of growing up. The Littles are all from Monmouth and Middlesex Counties and between the ages of 6 and 14. A professional case manager provides support and supervision to all match participants to ensure the safety of the match.
