Big Brothers Big Sisters of Frederick County, MD

Core Programs

Volunteer/Service Learning Opportunities

Core Program

The Core Program provides quality one-on-one mentoring to children of dysfunctional and/or single-parent homes. Each match is initiated and closely supervised by experienced and qualified case managers. Our efforts are focused on youth development, self-esteem building, and the prevention of behavioral problems. We have been extremely successful in providing good, positive role models to the children in our program.

Contact the Core Program caseworkers, Johanna Springston and Shonda Guillory at (301) 694-9455.

Mentoring Plus Program

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Frederick County has been awarded a grant by the Department of Health & Human Services to expand the program and offer one-on-one and group mentoring support to increasing number of children. The program began October 4, 2004 and addresses the needs and provides mentoring for the children of incarcerated parents.

Contact the core program caseworkers, Maret Sisas or Lisa Robertshaw at (301) 694-0188

High School Big Brothers Big Sisters Programs

Purpose: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Frederick County has 60 children waiting to be matched with adult volunteers. High school students are needed to help fill the void these children have by offering them one-on-one companionship and friendship.

Who can volunteer? Any high school student can apply. We are looking for caring, responsible and creative people. Parental consent is needed before being accepted into the program.

Where will I visit? Students will meet with the child after school, either at the child's home or school. Meeting places and times will be arranged on an individual match basis.

What is expected of me? You must be able to volunteer for one hour each week for a minimum of six months. Your ability to be consistent is important to the development of the match relationship.

How do I get started? Please contact Kathy Corbett at (301) 694-9455.

Inter-Generational Program

Purpose: To provide an opportunity for middle and high school students to serve their community through interaction with senior citizens.

Who can volunteer? Any middle or high school student can apply. The volunteer must have parental consent before being accepted into the program.

Where will I visit? Students spend one hour each week visiting residents in area nursing home.

What is expected of me? You must be willing to volunteer for at least six months and maintain weekly visits. One hour per week can make an important difference in the life of your senior companion.

How do I get involved? Call Kathy Corbett at (301) 694-9455

Special Needs Mentor Program

Purpose: To provide companionship to children and youth with special needs.

Who can volunteer? Any student can apply. The volunteer must have parental consent before being accepted into the program.

Where will I visit? Students meet each Thursday throughout the school year at Rock Creek School from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. in the gym.

What is expected of me? You must be willing to volunteer between October and May.

How do I get involved? Call Kathy Corbett at (301) 694-9455.

School Based Mentoring Program

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Frederick County has started a new one-on-one mentoring program to benefit children in school. Any one who is available during school hours or after-school hours may contact Kathy Corbett at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Frederick and sign up to enroll in this new program. At the present time 40 volunteers are offering weekly one hour of tutoring to children. Some of them are assisting in reading to students of RSOL program (Children with English as their second language).

How do I get involved? Call Kathy Corbett at (301) 694-9455.