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BBBS
Our Locations
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio and Subsidiaries serves 15 Ohio counties. Please select the location which serves the county you reside in. If you do not reside in one of these counties, please CLICK HERE to find your local Big Brothers Big Sisters location.

Central Ohio – Clark, Delaware, Franklin, Madison, Morrow and Union County
BBBS of Greater Cleveland – Cuyahoga County
BBBS of East Central Ohio – Carroll, Harrison, and Tuscarawas County
BBBS of South Central Ohio – Fayette, Highland, Pickaway, Pike and Ross County



Our Programs - BBBS of Central Ohio
Community-Based:
  • Matches are expected to meet twice per month and spend time doing everyday activities that promote a trusting relationship and help a young person build self-confidence, think about the future, and of course, have fun!
  • Must be 21 years of age or older.
  • Have reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license, and current car insurance.
  • Be willing to make at least an 18-month commitment 
School-Based: 
  • Matches meet once a week, on a set day and time. An on-site BBBS staff member facilitates activities for school-based plus matches and is available for support and guidance. School-based matches are NOT permitted to meet or communicate outside of their sessions.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Be willing to make at least a two-school-year commitment 
School-Based Plus: 
  • Matches meet once a week, on a set day and time. An on-site BBBS staff member facilitates activities for school-based plus matches and is available for support and guidance. School-based Plus matches can meet or communicate outside of their sessions with parental consent.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Be willing to make at least a two-school-year commitment 

Hispanic Mentoring:
  • Connect with a Latino Little and enrich their lives
  • Both Community-Based and School-Based mentoring options are available
  • You do not need to be bilingual but must have an interest in working with a Hispanic family
  • Matches are based on language preferences
  • We ask Bigs to invest a minimum of two years
  • You must be a minimum of 21 years old
Big Futures:
  • Connect with a high school Little to provide support and resources as they work towards graduation
  • You and your Little participate in career and college readiness events
  • Both Community-Based and School-Based mentoring options are available
  • We ask Bigs to invest a minimum of two years
  • You must be a minimum of 21 years old

Our Programs - BBBS of Central Ohio - Delaware/Morrow County
Community-Based:
  • Matches are expected to meet twice per month and spend time doing everyday activities that promote a trusting relationship and help a young person build self-confidence, think about the future, and of course, have fun!
  • Must be 21 years of age or older.
  • Have reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license, and current car insurance.
  • Be willing to make at least an 18-month commitment 
School-Based: 
  • Matches meet once a week, on a set day and time. An on-site BBBS staff member facilitates activities for school-based plus matches and is available for support and guidance. School-based matches are NOT permitted to meet or communicate outside of their sessions.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Be willing to make at least a two-school-year commitment 
School-Based Plus: 
  • Matches meet once a week, on a set day and time. An on-site BBBS staff member facilitates activities for school-based plus matches and is available for support and guidance. School-based Plus matches can meet or communicate outside of their sessions with parental consent.
  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Be willing to make at least a two-school-year commitment 

Our Programs - BBBS of Central Ohio - Union County
Community-Based:
  • Matches are expected to meet twice per month and spend time doing everyday activities that promote a trusting relationship and help a young person build self-confidence, think about the future, and of course, have fun!
  • Must be 21 years of age or older.
  • Have reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license, and current car insurance.
  • Be willing to make at least an 18-month commitment 

Our Programs - BBBS of Greater Cleveland
Community-Based: 
As a Community-Based Big, you have the opportunity to meet with your Little in-person, while also connecting with them through text and video chat!

Our Programs - BBBS of Springfield
Community-Based: 
  • Must have reliable transportation, a valid driver’s license and current car insurance.
  • Be willing to make at least an 18-month commitment to the child in the program.
  • BBBS matches an adult volunteer with a child facing adversity. These community-based matches are expected to meet twice per month and spend time doing everyday activities that promote a trusting relationship that helps a young person build self-confidence, think about the future, and of course, have fun!

School-Based: 
  • Meet at your Little's school, during their lunch hour
  • 3 visits a month for at least 1 year
  • Great if you are busy in the evenings and weekends

Our Programs - BBBS of South Central Ohio
Counties Served: Fayette, Highland, Pickaway, Pike and Ross. 

Community-Based: 
  • Flexible schedule and activities
  • At least 2 outings each month 
  • Commit for at least 4 hours each month and 18 month commitment
School-Based: 
  • Meet at your Little's school, during their lunch hour
  • 3 visits a month for at least 1 year
  • Great if you are busy in the evenings and weekends

Our Programs - BBBS of East Central Ohio
Community-Based: 
  • Flexible schedule and activities
  • Minimum of 4 hours per month
  • 18 month commitment
  • Must be 18 years or older
School-Based:
  • Meet with your Little weekly at his/her school at a designated time
  •  One school year commitment
  •  Program runs October-May
  •  Participating Districts: Dover, New Philadelphia, Claymont, Strasburg, Tuscarawas Valley, Newcomerstown, Brown Local, and Carrollton
  • Must be a freshman in high school or older 

Non-Discrimination Policy

Our participants come to us with a wide range of personal characteristics. We believe that participant eligibility shall be determined without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, or disability. 

Basic Information









e.g. Jr, Sr, III

input NA if none










To select multiple, hold CTRL/CMD and click.







Contact Information





Enter numbers only starting with area code

Enter numbers only starting with area code

Enter numbers only starting with area code






Include Apt/Suite etc if applicable





College/University Students - Please input local address above and permanent one below










To ensure safety, our process includes a basic screening of other adults living in a volunteer's home. Please list the full name, other names used (maiden, alias, etc.), and birth date of ALL adults 18 year or older living in your home:


Driver's License Information




Use format: mm/dd/yyyy

File can be a screenshot, PDF, or picture


Use format: mm/dd/yyyy

File can be a screenshot, PDF, or picture
Residence History




Employer Information
College/University Students - please select "Student: College" for Occupation and type "N/A" in for Employer. If you are retired, unemployed or a homemaker please select those options in drop down for Occupation.


Type "N/A" if unemployed, retired or a homemaker.








Additional Information



File can be a screenshot, PDF, or picture





Previous Experience



References

Please list the complete names, daytime phone numbers and email addresses of four individuals who can vouch for your reputation, character, morals and experience interacting with youth. Each reference must have known you for at least one year. The reference forms will be sent to the people you’ve listed once your application is submitted. Please let them know to be looking out for it in their inbox. 
Please provide FOUR references. A reference from a Spouse/Spousal Equivalent or Significant Other is required. Substitute a family member if no Spouse/Spousal Equivalent or Significant Other. Please list people you have known for over one year.
Please list the complete names, daytime phone numbers and email addresses of three individuals who can vouch for your reputation, character, morals and experience interacting with youth.
  1. Your Spouse/Domestic Partner, or a Family Member who has known you for at least 3 years
  2. A current or past Supervisor/Co-worker who has known you for at least 1 year
  3. A Friend who has known you for at least 2 years
Please provide contact information for THREE references who can assess your qualifications and appropriateness to serve as a Big. Each reference must have known you for at least one year. Please notify your references that BBBS staff will be contacting them by phone and/or email.
  1. Spouse or spousal equivalent - If no spouse or spousal equivalent reference is applicable, a family member reference is required. NOTE: The spouse or spousal equivalent reference is someone with whom the applicant cohabits and shares a long-term relationship, including a domestic partner.
  2. Work or School Reference (not related to you)
  3. Personal (not related to you)
Spousal/Familial Reference
If no spouse or spousal equivalent reference is applicable, a family member reference is required. NOTE: The spouse or spousal equivalent reference is someone with whom the applicant cohabits and shares a long-term relationship, including a domestic partner.







Professional/Educational Reference
Work or School Reference (not related to you) If you have been at your current employer for less than a year we also require a reference from your previous employer.








Previous Employer Reference







Personal Reference
Please provide TWO Personal (not related to you) references. Use the button below to add your second personal reference.








Volunteer Experience











Pre-Interview Questionnaire



















Counselor Release Form

Authorization for Release of Information

The purpose for the disclosure of this information is to determine appropriateness for  person to become a Big Brother or Big Sister Volunteer working with a child for a minimum of one year that will meet face to face two times per month out in the community.





  • Start/End date(s) of counseling
  • Diagnosis/Prognosis
  • Any medications prescribed
  • Date(s) of diagnosis/hospitalization (if applicable)
  • Any other pertinent information


Background Check - Summary of Rights

NOTICE AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

(IMPORTANT – PLEASE READ CAREFULLY)

 

NOTICE REGARDING BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland may obtain information about you from a consumer reporting agency for mentoring purposes. Thus, you may be the subject of a “consumer report” and/or an “investigative consumer report” which may include information about your character, general reputation, personal characteristics, and/or mode of living and which can involve personal interviews with sources such as your neighbors, friends, or associates. These may be obtained at any time after receipt of your authorization and if you are selected, throughout your mentoring. You have the right, upon written request made within a reasonable time after receipt of this notice, to request disclosure of the nature and scope of any investigative consumer report. Please be advised that the nature and scope of the most common form of investigative consumer report obtained with regard to applicants for mentoring is an investigation into your education and/or employment history conducted by Open online, P.O. Box 549, Columbus, Oh 43204, 614-481-5999, 888-381-5656 or another outside organization. The scope of this notice and authorization is all-encompassing, however, allowing Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland to obtain from any outside organization all manner of consumer reports and investigative consumer reports now and, if you are selected as a mentor, throughout the course of your mentoring to the extent permitted by law. As a result, you should carefully consider whether to exercise your right to request disclosure of the nature and scope of any investigative consumer report.

 

Use of date of birth is for identification purposes only. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland is committed to the principle of equal opportunity in participation in our mentoring program. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, or sexual orientation. NOTE: it is the policy of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland to strictly honor parental choice. Without discussing a specific individual and without disclosing the characteristics of a specific individual, we do ask parents if they have any preferences regarding a volunteer's race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, or sexual orientation. The parent's preferences take precedence in matching volunteers with children. 


New York applicants or employees only: You have the right to inspect and receive a copy of any investigative consumer report requested by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland by contacting the consumer reporting agency identified above directly.

Fair Credit Reporting Act Rights Summary

Para información en español, visite www.consumerfinance.gov/learnmore o escribe a la Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 1700 G Street N.W., Washington, DC 20552.

 

A Summary of Your Rights Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act

 

The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) promotes the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of information in the files of consumer reporting agencies. There are many types of consumer reporting agencies, including credit bureaus and specialty agencies (such as agencies that sell information about check writing histories, medical records, and rental history records). Here is a summary of your major rights under FCRA. For more information, including information about additional rights, go to www.consumerfinance.gov/learnmore or write to: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, 1700 G Street N.W., Washington, DC 20552.

 

You must be told if information in your file has been used against you. Anyone who uses a credit report or another type of consumer report to deny your application for credit, insurance, or employment – or to take another adverse action against you – must tell you, and must give you the name, address, and phone number of the agency that provided the information.

 

You have the right to know what is in your file. You may request and obtain all the information about you in the files of a consumer reporting agency (your “file disclosure”). You will be required to provide proper identification, which may include your Social Security number. In many cases, the disclosure will be free. You are entitled to a free file disclosure if:

 

  • a person has taken adverse action against you because of information in your credit report;

  • you are the victim of identity theft and place a fraud alert in your file;

  • your file contains inaccurate information as a result of fraud;

  • you are on public assistance;

  • you are unemployed but expect to apply for employment within 60 days.

 

In addition, all consumers are entitled to one free disclosure every 12 months upon request from each nationwide credit bureau and from nationwide specialty consumer reporting agencies. See www.consumerfinance.gov/learnmore for additional information.

 

You have the right to ask for a credit score. Credit scores are numerical summaries of your credit-worthiness based on information from credit bureaus. You may request a credit score from consumer reporting agencies that create scores or distribute scores used in residential real property loans, but you will have to pay for it. In some mortgage transactions, you will receive credit score information for free from the mortgage lender.

 

You have the right to dispute incomplete or inaccurate information. If you identify information in your file that is incomplete or inaccurate, and report it to the consumer reporting agency, the agency must investigate unless your dispute is frivolous. See www.consumerfinance.gov/learnmore for an explanation of dispute procedures.

 

Consumer reporting agencies must correct or delete inaccurate, incomplete, or unverifiable information. Inaccurate, incomplete, or unverifiable information must be removed or corrected, usually within 30 days. However, a consumer reporting agency may continue to report information it has verified as accurate.

 

Consumer reporting agencies may not report outdated negative information. In most cases, a consumer reporting agency may not report negative information that is more than seven years old, or bankruptcies that are more than 10 years old.

 

Access to your file is limited. A consumer reporting agency may provide information about you only to people with a valid need – usually to consider an application with a creditor, insurer, employer, landlord, or other business. The FCRA specifies those with a valid need for access.

 

You must give your consent for reports to be provided to employers. A consumer reporting agency may not give out information about you to your employer, or a potential employer, without your written consent given to the employer. Written consent generally is not required in the trucking industry. For more information, go to www.consumerfinance.gov/learnmore.

 

You may limit “prescreened” offers of credit and insurance you get based on information in your credit report. Unsolicited “prescreened” offers for credit and insurance must include a toll-free phone number you can call if you choose to remove your name and address form the lists these offers are based on. You may opt out with the nationwide credit bureaus at 1-888-5-OPTOUT (1-888-567-8688).

 

The following FCRA right applies with respect to nationwide consumer reporting agencies:

 

CONSUMERS HAVE THE RIGHT TO OBTAIN A SECURITY FREEZE

 

You have a right to place a “security freeze” on your credit report, which will prohibit a consumer reporting agency from releasing information in your credit report without your express authorization. The security freeze is designed to prevent credit, loans, and services from being approved in your name without your consent.

However, you should be aware that using a security freeze to take control over who gets access to the personal and financial information in your credit report may delay, interfere with, or prohibit the timely approval of any subsequent request or application you make regarding a new loan, credit, mortgage, or any other account involving the extension of credit.

 

As an alternative to a security freeze, you have the right to place an initial or extended fraud alert on your credit file at no cost. An initial fraud alert is a 1-year alert that is

placed on a consumer’s credit file. Upon seeing a fraud alert display on a consumer’s credit file, a business is required to take steps to verify the consumer’s identity before extending new credit. If you are a victim of identity theft, you are entitled to an extended fraud alert, which is a fraud alert lasting 7 years.

 

A security freeze does not apply to a person or entity, or its affiliates, or collection agencies acting on behalf of the person or entity, with which you have an existing account that requests information in your credit report for the purposes of reviewing or collecting the account. Reviewing the account includes activities related to account maintenance, monitoring, credit line increases, and account upgrades and enhancements.

 

You may seek damages from violators. If a consumer reporting agency, or, in some cases, a user of consumer reports or a furnisher of information to a consumer reporting agency violates the FCRA, you may be able to sue in state or federal court.

 

Identity theft victims and active duty military personnel have additional rights. For more information, visit www.consumerfinance.gov/learnmore.

 

States may enforce the FCRA, and many states have their own consumer reporting laws. In some cases, you may have more rights under state law. For more information, contact your state or local consumer protection agency or your state Attorney General. For information about your federal rights, contact:


TYPE OF BUSINESS:

CONTACT:

1.a. Banks, savings associations, and credit unions with total assets of over $10 billion and their affiliates

 

 

b. Such affiliates that are not banks, savings associations, or credit unions also should list, in addition to the CFPB:

a.  Consumer Financial Protection Bureau 1700 G Street, N.W.

Washington, DC 20552

 

b.  Federal Trade Commission Consumer Response Center

600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

Washington, DC 20580

(877) 382-4357

2. To the extent not included in item 1 above:

a.  National banks, federal savings associations, and federal branches and federal agencies of foreign banks

 

 

b.  State member banks, branches and agencies of foreign banks (other than federal branches, federal agencies, and Insured State Branches of Foreign Banks), commercial lending companies owned or controlled by foreign banks, and organizations operating under section 25 or 25A of the Federal Reserve Act.

 

c.  Nonmember Insured Banks, Insured State Branches of Foreign Banks, and insured state savings associations

 

d.  Federal Credit Unions

a.  Office of the Comptroller of the Currency Customer Assistance Group

1301 McKinney Street, Suite 3450

Houston, TX 77010-9050

 

b.  Federal Reserve Consumer Help Center

P.O. Box 1200 Minneapolis, MN 55480

 

 

c.  FDIC Consumer Response Center 1100 Walnut Street, Box #11 Kansas City, MO 64106

 

d.  National Credit Union Administration

Office of Consumer Financial Protection (OCFP) Division of Consumer Compliance Policy and Outreach 1775 Duke Street

Alexandria, VA 22314

3. Air carriers

Asst. General Counsel for Aviation Enforcement & Proceedings Aviation Consumer Protection Division

Department of Transportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E. Washington, DC 20590

4. Creditors Subject to the Surface Transportation Board

Office of Proceedings, Surface Transportation Board Department of Transportation

395 E Street, S.W. Washington, DC 20423

5. Creditors Subject to the Packers and Stockyards Act, 1921

Nearest Packers and Stockyards Administration area supervisor

6. Small Business Investment Companies

Associate Deputy Administrator for Capital Access United States Small Business Administration

409 Third Street, S.W., Suite 8200

Washington, DC 20416

7. Brokers and Dealers

Securities and Exchange Commission 100 F Street, N.E.

Washington, DC 20549

8. Federal Land Banks, Federal Land Bank Associations, Federal Intermediate Credit Banks, and Production Credit Associations

Farm Credit Administration 1501 Farm Credit Drive McLean, VA 22102-5090

9. Retailers, Finance Companies, and All Other Creditors Not Listed Above

Federal Trade Commission Consumer Response Center

600 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.

Washington, DC 20580

(877) 382-4357

Confidentiality Policy 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio

Confidentiality Policy/Management of Confidential Information

 

Purpose:  The Board of Trustees of Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio has determined that in order for children, parent/guardians and volunteers to be open and honest in their relationships with the agency and in order for the agency to protect the confidentiality of extensive personal information about these persons and their families, it is necessary to adopt this policy governing the management of confidential information.  The agency respects the confidentiality of child and volunteer records and shares information only among agency professional staff and as otherwise described in this policy.

 

Information and Documents Considered Confidential:  Confidential information includes all private and personal information used to accept or reject clients, to accept or reject volunteers, and to supervise matches, such as school records, medical records and information received from interviews and phone contacts.  Confidentiality also applies to video, filming, pictures and use of a client’s or volunteer’s name or photograph in agency publications, unless specifically waived.

 

Access to Confidential Information.  No one internally or externally will be given access to view confidential agency records without the express consent of the Board of Trustees of Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio, except that Big Brothers Big Sisters of America representatives are given access for purposes of program evaluation and the following persons are permitted access to child and volunteer records in order to fulfill their job functions for the agency:  Anyone given access to files, must first review and sign the agency confidentiality policy.

                                                                                                                                               

President & Chief Executive Officer

Quality Assurance Officer

·         Program Staff

·         Program Assistants (under professional supervision only)

·         Human Resources Director

·         Support Staff as designated by the CEO or the VP of Programs

·         Volunteers (under professional supervision only)

·         Student Interns/Work Study (under professional supervision only)

 


Exceptions to limited access are as follows:

 

Information may be provided to law enforcement officials or the courts pursuant to a valid subpoena without the individual’s or agency’s consent.

Information may be provided to the agency’s legal counsel in connection with potential litigation involving the agency.

Agency personnel must report suspected child abuse to appropriate authorities as required by state law.

Agency personnel who receive information indicating a client or volunteer may be dangerous to himself/herself or others must take necessary steps to protect the appropriate party(ies), including a medical referral or report to local law enforcement authorities.

 

Information may be provided and file reviews may be conducted by agency auditors, funding agencies or other entities as approved by the CEO and only under professional supervision.

 

The Board of Trustees may grant access to child or volunteer files only upon authorization by formal motion approved by the board.  The motion must state who is authorized to review records, the specific purpose for the review and the limited period of time during which access shall be granted.

 


Release of Confidential Information:  All client and volunteer files are property of the agency, not of clients, parents/guardians, volunteers or agency personnel.  Volunteers, rejected applicants, clients, parent(s), etc. are not given direct access to confidential information in their files in order to maintain the integrity of the agency’s reference sources, program staff and collateral contacts.

 

Identifying information will not be made public, except names and photographs of clients and volunteers may be used in agency publications unless the client or volunteer withholds permission to use that information.  Information in source documents, clients’ files and volunteers’ files is shared with individuals or outside organizations only under the following conditions:

 

A release form signed by a volunteer or client’s parent(s)/guardian(s) requesting release of certain information in that person’s file is presented to the program staff member, authorizing the agency to release specific information.  The signature on the form must be original and genuine. 

All requests for release of information must be approved by the Vice President of Programs or his/her designee.

Records are not duplicated; volunteer or client files are not reproduced and sent.  Information that is specifically requested is summarized in writing and forwarded to the requesting person.

A copy of the release and the written summary is placed in the appropriate file.



Requests for Confidential Information from Other Sources:  When a program staff member wishes to obtain information from another organization or individual in order to perform intake, matching or supervision of a match, he/she will use the standard release of information form that has been signed by the client’s parent(s)/guardian(s) or volunteer.  A copy of the signed release shall be filed in the client’s or volunteer’s file with a copy of the letter requesting the information.


ACCESS TO CONFIDENTIAL RECORDS

In order to provide a responsible and professional service to participants, parents, and volunteers, the parties stated are asked to divulge extensive personal information about themselves and their families. Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Central Ohio respects the confidentiality of participant and volunteer records with the exception of situations listed below, shares information about the participants and volunteers only among the agency professional staff. The right of confidentiality applies not only to written records but to video, film, pictures or use of client's or volunteer's name in agency publications. 
All records are considered the property of the agency and not the agency workers, participants or volunteers themselves. In order to provide a service which is in the best interest of the children served by the program, information from outside sources including confidential references must be assessed, along with information gained from the participants or volunteers themselves. Records are not available for review by the participants or volunteers. Participants and volunteers shall be provided, at the time of the application, a copy of this statement of confidentiality along with the exceptions of this statement of confidentiality and the exceptions which define the limits of the confidentiality. Clients and volunteers shall sign a statement that she/he has read and understands agency policy on confidentiality and agrees to program participation under the guidelines it sets forth. 

LIMITS OF CONFIDENTIALITY
  1. Information will be released to other individuals or organizations only upon presentation of an authorized "consent to release information" for appropriately signed by the participant or volunteer.
  2. Identifying information regarding clients and volunteers may be used in agency publications or promotional materials only if the participant or volunteer have given their permission. However, no information or photographs of children in our program are to be posted on Facebook pages, lnstagram pages or other internet sites without parental permission.
  3. For purposes of program evaluation, audit or accreditation and with the prior approval of the Board of Directors, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America may have access to participants and volunteer records. In order to comply with the national evaluation process, outside evaluations may be selected by evaluation process, outside evaluations may also be selected by the Board of Directors and the President/CEO. If other outside organizations request access to records, it must be deemed absolutely necessary for a specific purpose with prior approval by the President/CEO, Executive Committee and a formal motion of the Board of Directors. These outside parties shall be required to respect the agency policy on confidentiality and use the information for the purposes approved by the Board. Known violation of the agency confidentiality policy will be reported to the supervisor of the individual involved and appropriate disciplinary action shall be requested. 
  4. Members of the Board of Directors have access to client files only upon authorization by formal motion of the Board of Directors. The motion shall state who/what shall be authorized to review records, the specific purpose for such review and the period of the time during which access shall be granted. Members shall be required to comply with the agency policies on confidentiality and may use the information only for purposes stated by the approved action of the Board of Directors. Known violation of the agency's confidentiality policy by a board member shall constitute adequate cause for removal from office.
  5. Information shall only be provided to law enforcement officials or the course pursuant to a valid and enforceable subpoena.
  6. Information shall only be provided to an agency's legal counsel in the event of litigation or potential litigation involving the agency. Such information is considered privileged information and it's confidentiality is protected by law.
  7. State law mandates that suspected child abuse be reported to the appropriate authorities -Children's Services. All workers are responsible for staying abreast of such reporting requirements of their respective jurisdiction and shall always comply with the mandated procedures. The Ohio Revised Code states that all volunteers are also mandated reporters (as of July 1, 1996). Volunteers can call Children's Services to report any suspected abuse and they also need to notify the agency. All suspected abuse must be reported to Children's Services within 48 hours of said abuse.
  8. If any agency worker receives information indicating that a participant or volunteer may be dangerous to himself/herself or to others, necessary steps may be taken to protect the appropriate party. This may include a medical referral or a report to the local law enforcement authorities.
For screening purposes, I give my permission for the Big Brothers Big Sisters Enrollment & Match Support Specialist to share with the program staff the information relevant to me, my son/daughter/minor child in regards to the acceptance or rejection as a volunteer or participant of Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Central Ohio. If accepted, I give my permission to the Big Brothers Big Sisters Enrollment & Match Support Specialist to share with my prospective Little Brothers/Sisters family or the Big Brother/Big Sister, that information which is relevant to making an appropriate match. 
Social Media Guidelines for Volunteers

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio and subsidiaries (BBBSCO) recognizes that social networking on the internet is prevalent for volunteers, littles and their families. To protect our children and their families, we expect volunteers to adhere to the following BBBSCO Digital Technology and Social Networking Policy, to ALL guidelines defined by social media sites, and to ALL state and federal laws. BBBSCO reserves the right to monitor the social networking activities of volunteers, and to request that a volunteer delete inappropriate information from a social media site. If a volunteer is seen using social networking in an excessively inappropriate manner, his or her relationship with our organization could be terminated. 


Community-based and Site Based Plus matches: 


1.   Child Safety and Appropriate Social Networking

Child safety is our #1 priority. Volunteers choosing to engage in social media are expected to maintain an appropriate presence on social media, even if they are not “connected” with their little brother/sister through social media sites. Volunteers serve as role models for a child and the community.

• Volunteer should ensure that posts, tweets, photos and comments are appropriate and kid-friendly.


2.   Confidentiality and Privacy

BBBSCO requires its volunteers to respect the confidentiality and privacy of the children and families of Big Brothers Big Sisters in every respect, including social networking. This applies even if the volunteer is not “connected” with their mentee through social media sites. Volunteers must follow these requirements regarding confidentiality on their own and others’ social media sites.

  • Written parental permission is required to post, share or tweet photos or videos of their little brother/sister.

  • Never post, share, tweet or tag their little brother’s/sister’s full name, location, city, address, school or other personal information such as where his/her parent/guardian works.

  • Volunteers should not use geo-positioning applications when they are with their little brother/sister.

3.  “Connecting” with Mentees Through Social Networking

Big Brothers/Sisters in a Community-based or Dual match may not initiate or accept an invitation to “connect” or “follow” his/her Little or member of the Little’s family on any social media site without written parental permission.

VOLUNTEER ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA                                                                      

Ground Rules

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE


The parent or guardian of any child participating in the Big Brothers/Big Sisters program must be able to rely on the agency to provide a suitable volunteer for the child. In order to facilitate this, the following policy was adopted by the Big Brothers/Big Sisters Board of Directors. There are no restrictions placed on race, religion or natural origin of the applicant.

 

POLICY

 

The potential Big Brothers/Big Sister volunteer must:

  1. Be at least 21 years of age.

  2.  Have a valid Ohio Driver's license, proof of proper liability coverage and be able to provide transportation for his/her match.

  3.  Prior to being matched, attend training programs provided by the agency.

  4.  Supply the agency with three references who have known the applicant for at least one year. One shall be work-related and the other two shall be from spouse, domestic partner or friends.

  5.  Sign a release authorizing and giving access to Big Brothers/Big Sisters all persons and/or agencies including but not limited to employers, courts, police, social service, driving record and background checks for exchange of  information  which speaks to the suitability of the applicant as a volunteer.

  6.  The volunteer applicant must not have been charged or convicted of any offense involving harm or abuse of a child or any felony offense.

  7.  Must possess good physical and mental health and demonstrate stability in his/her personal life. Any physical condition requiring medication must be stabilized. Physically handicapped persons must be ambulatory to the point of being able to utilize private or public transportation.

  8. Must have a healthy attitude towards his/her sexuality.

  9. A volunteer applicant may be excluded from the program after initial acceptance should it be determined that he/she falsified his/her application or misrepresented him/herself during the interview process.

  10. A volunteer applicant must have a home interview and family members or significant others must be present at this visit.

  11. The volunteer applicant must have consistent contact with the child.

  12. Must comply with staff supervision and goal setting.

  13. Recognize that all information obtained regarding the volunteer will be held in confidence by the Big Brothers/Big Sisters staff unless otherwise specified or required by law.

  14. Must have healthy motivation for program involvement.

  15. Must have a stable employment history unless he/she is a homemaker, student or retired.

  16. Must sign and comply with all agency volunteer policies and guidelines.

  17. Must be aware of the fact that he/she may not be accepted as a result of overaII assessment by the Staff and Program Director. The reason for not accepting the volunteer is an agency decision and is confidential.

BBBS of South Central OH

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE


The parent or guardian of any child participating in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program must be able to rely on the agency to provide a suitable volunteer for the child. In order to facilitate this, the following policy was adopted by the Big Brothers Big Sisters Board of Directors. There are no restrictions placed on race, religion or natural origin of the applicant.


POLICY


The potential Big Brother/Big Sister volunteer:

  1. Must be at least 21 years of age. 
  2. Potential volunteers who are at least 19 years of age may be considered eligible when they show exceptional responsibility as determined by the Enrollment Specialist and President/CEO. These volunteers are required to provide an additional reference and comply with additional restrictions regarding transporting children, visiting private residences, etc., as dictated in specific agency policies.
  3. Must have a valid Ohio driver's license, proof of proper liability coverage and be able to provide transportation for his/her match.
  4. Must attend training programs provided by the agency prior to being matched. 
  5. Must supply the agency with three references who have known the applicant for at least one year. One shall be work-related and the other two shall be from spouse, domestic partner, or friends. If applicant has experience with Youth Serving Organizations, an additional reference is required from said organization.
  6. Must sign a release authorizing and giving access to Big Brothers Big Sisters all persons and/or agencies including but not limited to employers, courts, police, social service, driving record and background checks for exchange of information which speaks to the suitability of the applicant as a volunteer.
  7. Must not have been charged or convicted of any offense involving harm or abuse of a child or any felony offense.
  8. Must possess good physical and mental health and demonstrate stability in his/her personal life. Any physical condition requiring medication must be stabilized.  Physically handicapped persons must be ambulatory to the point of being able to utilize private or public transportation.
  9. Must have a healthy attitude towards his/her sexuality.
  10. May be excluded from the program after initial acceptance should it be determined that he/she falsified his/her application or misrepresented him/herself during the interview process.
  11. Must have an in-person or virtual interview. 
  12. Must have consistent contact with the child.
  13. Must comply with staff supervision and goal setting.
  14. Must recognize that all information obtained regarding the volunteer will be held in confidence by the Big Brothers Big Sisters staff unless otherwise specified or required by law.
  15. Must have healthy motivation for program involvement.
  16. Must have a stable employment history unless he/she is a homemaker, student or retired.
  17. Must sign and comply with all agency volunteer policies and guidelines.
  18. Must be aware of the fact that he/she may not be accepted as a result of overall assessment by the staff and program director. The reason for not accepting the volunteer is an agency decision and is confidential.

BBBS of East Central Volunteer Ground Rules

I understand that seeing my Little Brother/Little Sister consistently is one of the most important things I can do as a Mentor; therefore, I will see my Little one hour per week.

 

I understand that all contact with my Little is restricted to school grounds and only during the scheduled mentoring sessions.   This means that I will not have contact with my Little outside of the school setting.  If I wish to have a match outside of school I will enroll in the community based program through Big Brothers Big Sisters. 

 

I understand that the relationship between my Little and me is a one-to-one relationship.

 

I understand that I might be privy to personal information about my Little and family members, which I will keep confidential.

 

I will maintain regular contact with the Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring Coordinator by responding to calls and letters. 

 

If a problem arises in my  match relationship, or if my place of employment, residences, or telephone number changes, I will notify the Big Brothers Big Sisters Agency immediately. 

 

I understand that I will be asked to participate in a program evaluation. 

 

I will adhere to school procedure for match visits, including verifying my Little’s attendance on match visit days and contacting the school if I am unable to meet with my Little. 

 

I understand that if I have three unexcused absences or no shows for meeting, I will be dismissed from the program and my Little will be rematched.  Any hours I have accrued in meeting will not  count towards community service if I am dismissed from the program. 

 

I agree to complete the online training at www.highschoolbigs.org (please print out the last sheet and give to Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring Coordinator).

USE OF ALCOHOL, TOBACCO PRODUCTS, AND ILLICIT AND LEGAL DRUGS OR SUBSTANCES:

BBBSECO expects our volunteer mentors to model healthy, substance-free behaviors. For this reason, BBBSECO explicitly prohibits the use, possession, sale, or promotion of illegal drugs, prescription medication without a prescription, and marijuana in any form (including medical) for all volunteer mentors.  Additionally, Bigs of legal age who use tobacco, e-cigarettes, vape devices, and/or alcohol may not do so during or immediately before an activity with their youth mentee and are expected to make these items inaccessible to and out of sight of their youth mentee.  

Tobacco Products
The American Academy of Pediatrics has concluded that exposure to second-hand smoke “harms children from conception forward.”  Some states have banned smoking in a confined space, like a car, when a child is present.  Ohio has introduced legislation that would make it illegal to smoke inside a vehicle if a child under the age of 6 is a passenger.  

Recognizing that smoking in the company of a child has no legal restrictions, but exposure to second-hand smoke is harmful to all individuals, and poses particular risks for children, BBBS will:
  • Collect information on the potential Volunteer Big smoking habits (all smoking methods), and the parent/guardian smoking habit preferences, during the enrollment process.  This information will be used during the match process to set guidelines and preferences in the match.
  • Discourage smoking in the company of a child by Volunteer Bigs, parents/guardians, staff persons, and other associated with Big Brothers Big Sisters; especially in closed or confined spaces.  
  • Monitor and take action on issues regarding smoking that are revealed by the child, Volunteer Big or parent/guardian in the match support process.  The PSM will take action as needed to bring resolution to the smoking habit preferences identified for the match, including the possibility of match closure if the smoking habit preference cannot be attained.  

Firearms and Weapons Guidelines and Attestation

While some adults possess weapons for hunting and/or protection purposes, it is the policy of Big Brothers Big Sisters that all agency volunteers agree to inform BBBS of the ownership of weapons or the presence of weapons in the home. Volunteer Bigs must disclose any firearms and/or weapons ownership both at enrollment and throughout the life of the match.  
BBBS staff will discuss the ownership of weapons during the volunteer’s interview and/or home assessment.  For purposes of this policy, “weapons” include all firearms, handguns, zip guns, knives (except for kitchen knives and small pocket knives not used or intended for use as a weapon or to inflict bodily injury) and explosive devices.  

As a volunteer I agree to:
  1. Ensure that weapons and ammunition are inaccessible to the child assigned to you by BBBS and to any other child participating in a BBBS activity, while the child is under your supervision.  The means of ensuring the inaccessibility will be discussed during the interview and/or home visit.
  2. Attest that any weapons, firearms or ammunition ownership is licensed, permitted, registered and handled in accordance with all applicable state and federal laws.
  3. Adhere to the policy that a volunteer will not carry a concealed handgun at any time while accompanying the child assigned to you by BBBS or accompanying any other child participating in a BBBS activity (with the exception of law enforcement officers who are required to carry a weapon at all times and have received prior approval from BBBS).
  4. Understand that BBBS will disclose to the parent or guardian of the child assigned to you by BBBS the agency’s weapons policy and the volunteer’s admission of weapon ownership or the presence of a weapon in the home. The parent/guardian will sign an acknowledgment page at the match introduction, and the volunteer will sign an acknowledgment of the ownership of a weapon during enrollment, copies will be kept in both files.
  5. Obtain permission from the child’s parent/guardian and from BBBS before engaging in any activity in which a weapon may be used with the child assigned to you by BBBS or with any other child participating in BBBS activities.
  6. Abide by any other policy or procedure that BBBS may put into effect regarding weapons.
  7. BBBS requires that a child under the age of 18 to participate in a gun safety course prior to using a firearm. Volunteer are requested to provide their BBBS staff member a copy of the completed gun safety course prior to engaging in activities with weapons.
Media Consent & Release Form
I irrevocably consent to any and all uses and displays of my name, image, likeness, appearance, basic biographical information, audio/video recordings, writings, artwork, and the like, in original form or in modified form, in whole or in part, in, on, or in connection with merchandise, advertising, publicity, marketing, fundraising, and the like, in printed or electronic media, of any type, throughout the world at any time by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and BBBS of Central Ohio and subsidiaries in their sole discretion, and by any of their affiliates, successors, partners, sponsors, donors, any entities or persons with whom they conduct any public relations, marketing, or fund raising of any type, and any other authorized third parties, without further consent from me, without any royalty, payment, or other compensation to me, and with the release and waiver of any claims, actions, damages, losses, costs, expenses and liability of any kind arising from any such use (the “Released Material”).
In consideration of the mutual promises made herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which I hereby acknowledge, I hereby grant to BBBSA and its affiliates the right to use the Released Material as BBBSA and/or its affiliates may desire, in all media now existing or hereafter created and in all variations and forms including, but not limited to, internal or external publications or productions, informational or recruitment materials, marketing materials, fundraising materials, televised photography and/or recordings, advertisements, Public Service Announcements, and/or online and social media sites. The use of this information shall be at the sole discretion of BBBSA and/or its affiliates.

I further grant to BBBSA and its affiliates the absolute right to use the Released Material in whole or in part, alone or in conjunction with any other image, name, writings or reproduction, in color or otherwise, for art, advertising, business, trade, or any other lawful purpose whatsoever, in perpetuity throughout the world.

I understand and agree that all materials created by BBBSA and/or its affiliates that use the Released Materials are the property of and are owned by BBBSA, and that I cannot authorize their use by any other party.  I further understand that BBBSA may authorize their use by a third party. I hereby irrevocably transfer and assign to BBBSA my entire right, title and interest, if any, in and to the Released Materials and all copyrights in the Released Materials arising in any jurisdiction throughout the world, including the right to register and sue to enforce such copyrights against infringers.

I acknowledge and agree that I have no right to review or approve the Released Materials before they are used by BBBSA and/or its affiliates, and that BBBSA has no liability to me for any editing or alteration of the Released Materials or for any distortion or other effects resulting from BBBSA’s and/or its affiliates’ editing, alteration or use of the Released Materials.  BBBSA has no obligation to use the Released Materials or to exercise any rights given by this Consent and Release Form.

I hereby release BBBSA and its affiliates, employees, and agents, as well as any partner companies, from all claims, demands or liabilities and related financial costs that I may now or hereafter have arising in connection with BBBSA’s exercise of the rights hereby granted, and/or with the appearance or the Released Materials in any publication or production. These include, without limitation, claims for compensation, defamation, or invasion of privacy, or other infringements or violations of personal or property rights of any sort whatsoever.


Volunteer Policy - East Central Ohio
  1. I voluntarily and knowingly authorize for volunteer purposes only, any law enforcement agency, state agency, federal agency, consumer reporting agency, personal reference, and/or other person, to give records or information they may have concerning my criminal history, motor vehicle history, general reputation, character, or any other information requested to Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio and/or its agents or representatives at any time during my volunteer service.  I voluntarily and knowingly unconditionally release any named or unnamed informant from any and all liability resulting from the furnishing of this information.
  2. I understand that I must immediately disclose any arrests, known criminal investigations, convictions, license suspensions, and/or moving violations occurring from this point forward and for the duration of my involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio. I agree failure to do so may jeopardize any existing match and all program involvement.
  3. I understand that I must disclose the ownership of a weapon(s) or firearms(s), or if they are present in my home.  I also must disclose if I obtain a firearm(s) or weapon(s) during my involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio.
  4. He/She is not obligated, if called upon, to perform the volunteer service herein applied for and that the agency is not obligated to assign, or to actively seek to assign him/her a Little Brother/Little Sister; and, as a part of the agency's matching process, additional personal information will be elicited from the applicant by professional agency personnel.

  5. I agree and give permission for any Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio staff member to review all information contained in my file.

 

Big Brothers Big Sisters reserves the right to reject a candidate for any reason that the association, in its sole judgment, determines will or may affect either the best interests of a Little Brother/Little Sister or Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Central Ohio.  Furthermore, Big Brothers Big Sisters reserves the right to withhold the reason(s) for such refusal.

Volunteer Policy - South Central Ohio
  1. The references I listed may be contacted by mail, telephone or email.
  2. This in no way obligates me to perform any volunteer services.
  3. The information I provided may be used to conduct a background check, to include driving records check, criminal background check, and other records where required by local, state, or federal law for volunteers working with youth.
  4. Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Central Ohio is not obligated to match you with a youth.
  5. As part of our enrollment processes, we will be asking you to provide additional personal information prior to making any recommendations for assignment.
  6. I understand that the information that is collected is confidential and will not be released without my written permission or as possibly required by local, state or federal law.
Volunteer Policy - Greater Cleveland

  1. I voluntarily and knowingly authorize any law enforcement agency, state agency, federal agency, consumer reporting agency, personal reference, and/or other person, to give records or information they may have concerning my criminal history, motor vehicle history, general reputation, character, or any other information requested to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland and/or its agents or representatives at any time during my volunteer service or pursuant to any investigation relating to my volunteer service. I voluntarily and knowingly unconditionally release any named or unnamed informant from any and all liability resulting from the furnishing of this information.

  2. I understand that I must immediately disclose any prior arrests, known criminal investigations, convictions, license suspensions, and/or driving violations and for the duration of my involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland. I agree that failure to do so may jeopardize any existing match and all program involvement.

  3. I understand that I must disclose to Big Brothers Big Sisters if I own any weapons or firearms, or if any weapons or firearms are present in my home or vehicle. If at any time during my involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters, I obtain ownership of any weapons or firearms or a weapon or firearm becomes located in my home or vehicle, I must notify Big Brothers Big Sisters immediately.

  4. I acknowledge and agree that, for the duration of my involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland, any information obtained by the agency and its representatives, including personal, health, or other information, may be shared at the discretion of the agency staff with a parent/guardian and with the Little Brother/ Little Sister eventually selected for me, unless I specifically request otherwise. However, the names of the parties described shall be held confidential until the match is accepted by both parties.

  5. I am not obligated, if called upon, to perform the volunteer service herein applied for and the agency is not obligated to assign, or to actively seek to assign me a Little Brother/Little Sister; and, as a part of the agency's matching process, additional personal information will be elicited from me by professional agency personnel.

  6. Big Brothers Sisters reserves the right to reject a candidate for any reason that the association, in its sole judgment, determines will or may affect either the best interests of a Little Brother/Little Sister or Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland. Furthermore, Big Brothers Big Sisters reserves the right to withhold the reason(s) for such refusal. Additionally, Big Brothers Big Sisters reserves the right to deny requests for the release of certain records or information obtained for a candidate at any time during program involvement.

  7. I understand that any transportation to and from match activities, during visits, or during any other activity relating to Big Brothers Big Sisters shall be at my sole risk and liability.

  8. I agree that I must comply with all agency rules and guidelines provided during the enrollment process.   If I am not sure about these at any time, I will discuss with my designated agency support person.  I understand that failure to abide by the agency’s rules and policies may result in my dismissal from the program.

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