Volunteer Enrollment Form - Community-based

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Non-Discrimination Policy
Our funders require that we collect the information in this form. It will not affect your enrollment as a Big/Volunteer.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, color, physical condition, marital status, religion, sexual orientation, national origin or disability.
Basic Information






input NA if none


input NA if none

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Must be listed as MM/DD/YYYY









To select multiple, hold CTRL and click.

Spouse/Significant Other Full Legal Name and Birthdate


Input NA if none


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File can be a screenshot, PDF, or picture. 




File can be a screenshot, PDF, or picture





Contact Information





























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 years or older living in your home.



Employer Information









Additional Information
























Previous Experience



References

Please provide at least three references. If you listed a Spouse/Spousal Equivalent or Significant Other above, their information is required as the first reference below. Substitute a family member (biological or chosen) ONLY if no Spouse/Spousal Equivalent or Significant Other.
Spousal/Familial Reference







Professional Reference (non-family member)







Personal Reference








Volunteer Experience








Volunteer Rules and Responsibilities

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee focuses on ensuring child safety, supporting Bigs and Littles in forming long lasting, positive relationships and helping youth reach positive outcomes. Please review each of the following policies and sign at the bottom of the page to indicate you are aware of your responsibility, as a Volunteer, to uphold the policies of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee.
Safety
OVERNIGHT POLICY - I understand Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) does not allow overnight match activities. Violation of this rule will result in the closure of my match.

MANDATED REPORTING - BBBS staff are mandated reporters and are required by law to report any signs of child abuse or neglect. I must contact my Match Support Specialist (MSS) or the BBBS Emergency Line immediately if I have concerns about the safety of my Little or someone in my Little’s family.

SUPERVISION - I understand I must supervise my Little at all times. I will never leave my Little unattended or with any other person during our outings. I understand BBBS requires an adult (someone 18 or older) to be present when I pick up and drop off my Little.

APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR - I understand BBBS has a zero tolerance policy for illegal drug use. I understand smoking or consuming alcohol is STRICTLY PROHIBITED before and/or during outings with my Little. I will always use appropriate language and model appropriate behavior when spending time with my Little.

SAFE ACTIVITIES - I will always choose safe and age-appropriate match activities. My Little and I will wear appropriate safety gear for activities such as biking, swimming or boating.

TRANSPORTING YOUTH
  • I understand BBBS follows Wisconsin laws and recommendations that children ages 4-7 must sit in the backseat in a booster seat, and all children must sit in the backseat until age 13. Seatbelts are required at all times for both my Little and me. (Contact your MSS if you have questions or need to borrow a booster seat from BBBS.)
  • I am the only person authorized to transport my Little unless approved in advance by my MSS and my Little’s caregiver.
  • BBBS policy prohibits the use of a cell phone when driving a Little. I will pull over and safely stop the vehicle before using my cell phone.
  • I will maintain liability auto insurance coverage as required by the State of Wisconsin. I will immediately notify my MSS if my driving privileges or auto insurance coverage changes.
BACKGROUND CHECK - I understand annual background checks, including electronic media, driving records check and criminal background screening will be conducted by BBBS. I will contact my MSS immediately if I have ANY CONTACT with law enforcement including, but not limited to, receiving a citation or being arrested for a DUI, disorderly conduct, domestic violence or battery.

FIREARMS AND WEAPONS - I agree to never carry or possess a weapon at any time on my person or in my vehicle while in the company of a youth in BBBS. Hunting or shooting a firearm is not an approved BBBS match activity. If I own a weapon(s), I will keep all weapons locked and inaccessible to a youth in BBBS. I will notify BBBS immediately if I obtain a weapon during the time I am involved in the BBBS program.

BBBS MEMBERSHIP/EMERGENCY CARD - I understand this card provides emergency contact, doctor and allergy information for my Little. I will ensure the information is up-to-date and carry this card with me during each outing with my Little.

Match Support
MATCH SUPPORT CONTACT - I understand BBBS requires me to be in contact with my MSS at least every 30 days during the first year of my match and at a minimum every 90 days thereafter. Keeping in touch with my MSS is not only a requirement, but also a resource BBBS provides to help support my match. I understand lack of communication with my MSS will result in my match being closed.

CONCERNS - If I have concerns or a problem arises in my match relationship I will contact my MSS immediately.

GOAL SETTING - I will work with my Little, my Little’s caregiver and my MSS to set goals for my Little related to achieving educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence and better relationships.

UPDATES/CHANGES - I will contact my MSS promptly regarding any change in address or phone number for my Little or me. I will also contact my MSS if changes arise in my life such as marriage, divorce, name change, children, serious illness or living situation (ex: new roommate).

CLOSURE - I agree to communicate with my MSS if changes in my life or concerns about my match relationship arise. My MSS will provide support, problem solving and coaching. Ultimately, if my match relationship must end through BBBS, I will actively participate in the closure process recommended by my MSS. (Reference the Volunteer Training Handbook provided at Volunteer Pre-Match Training for Steps to Match Closure.)
Friendship
COMMITMENT AND CONSISTENCY - I understand it is my responsibility to have 2-4 outings/activities per month and maintain weekly communication. AR-SA">Outings/activities can be virtual, in-person (following BBBS guidelines), or a combination of virtual and in-person.  I understand BBBS encourages long-lasting relationships and matches can remain open until my Little turns 18, graduates high school, or through the first year of their post-secondary. Matches can continue through our Post-Secondary Program (PSP) for 1 year following Little’s high school graduation.

FREQUENCY OF OUTINGS - I will spend time with my Little 2-4 times per month for approximately 2 to 4 hours for in-person outings. Virtual meetings should be 20-60 minutes. I will obtain approval from my MSS and my Little’s caregiver if I plan to have more than 2 outings with my Little in one week’s time or we plan to have an outing that exceeds 6 hours.

ONE-TO-ONE - I understand the focus of the BBBS program is one-on-one time with my Little. I will obtain permission from my Little and my Little’s caregiver on the rare occasion of including others on our outings. I understand that I assume responsibility and liability for any other person who is not enrolled in BBBS and participates in our outing.

COMMUNICATION WITH LITTLE - I will be in regular communication with my Little, especially if a week goes by that I am unable to meet with my Little in-person. I will discuss with my Little’s caregiver if my Little and I choose to communicate by phone, email, or text messaging.

RESPECT - I understand my Little and I may come from different backgrounds. I will be open-minded and non-judgmental regarding my Little and my Little’s family. I will contact my MSS with any questions or concerns. I will show respect at all times for my Little and his or her family.

FAMILY CONFIDENTIALITY – I understand I will learn personal information about my Little. I will not share identifying or personal information about my Little or my Little’s family with others.

MATCH CONFIDENTIALITY - I understand trust between my Little and me is very important. I will maintain my Little’s confidentiality unless it pertains to my Little’s safety. I will contact my MSS with any questions or concerns.
Boundaries
PERSONAL SPACE - I understand physical contact including, but not limited to, backrubs, sitting on laps, wrestling, rough housing or tickling is not allowed. Affection is best expressed through positive affirming comments. Physical affection may be expressed using a handshake, high-five, pat on the back or hug. I will only express physical affection after obtaining my Little’s permission.

INAPPROPRIATE MATERIAL - I will never display inappropriate materials or initiate discussions of a sexual nature with my Little.

PHOTOS - My Little’s caregiver has the right to view any photos I take of my Little. I will never photograph my Little in his/her bathing suit, undergarments, or without clothing.

PRIVATE RESTROOMS/CHANGING AREAS - I will always provide separate/private areas for my Little to use the restroom and/or change clothes. I understand bathing my Little, showering or nude swimming with my Little is not permitted.

DISCIPLINE - I will never use physical contact or abusive language to correct my Little’s behavior. If my Little misbehaves during an outing, I can state expectations for behavior and verbally address behavior concerns. If my Little does not respond, I will take my Little home and inform my Little’s caregiver and my MSS of the situation.

ACTIVITIES AT VOLUNTEER’S HOME
  • 3 MONTH WAITING PERIOD - My Little and I are not allowed to visit my home during the first 3 months of our match. Once we have been matched for at least 3 months and if I wish to have an activity at my home, I must obtain approval from my MSS and my Little’s caregiver. I will contact my MSS if I need activity ideas in the community.

  • APPROPRIATE ROOMS - I understand that my Little should never enter my bedroom or any other bedrooms in my home. Appropriate areas for activities are kitchen, living room or other common areas.
LOW/NO-COST ACTIVITIES - I understand I am encouraged to do activities at a nominal cost, but I should expect to spend some money while in the program. My Little’s family might not be able to contribute money, so I will keep this in mind when planning our activities. BBBS provides staff planned and facilitated REACH activities for my match.

GIFT GIVING - I understand gift giving should be limited to special occasions such as a birthday, holiday, special event or recognition of my Little’s achievement. I will receive prior approval from my Little’s caregiver and will limit the amount of a gift or special activity to $50 or less. Gifts should never be purchased and kept at my home without the permission of my Little’s caregiver and my MSS.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE/DONATIONS - I am not expected to provide funds, run errands or serve as a resource for my Little’s family. BBBS discourages me from donating money, tuition, rent, furniture, clothing, or any professional services to my Little’s family. I understand any donation must be discussed with and approved in advance by my MSS.

COMMUNICATION/RELATIONSHIP WITH CAREGIVER - I understand it is important to have a healthy relationship with my Little’s caregiver. I will discuss and obtain permission from my Little’s caregiver for each match activity. I will keep conversations focused around our match, my Little’s well-being, educational success, and progress toward goals. If my Little’s caregiver needs additional support or services that are outside my role as a mentor, I will encourage him/her to contact BBBS directly for resources.
Volunteer Acknowledgement
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee maintains liability insurance coverage to protect volunteers while with a child from the program. It is important that you as a volunteer fully understand agency rules and policies. A violation of a rule or policy may limit your right to coverage by the agency’s policy and/or closure of your match.

Confidentiality Policy

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee (BBBSMM)

BBBSMM complies with all applicable federal and Wisconsin laws and with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) Standards of Practice regarding the confidentiality, use, and protection of Program Participant information. For purposes of this Agreement, Program Participants include parents or legal guardians, youth, and volunteers.


Confidentiality and Use of Information

BBBSMM respects the confidentiality of all Program Participant records. Except as permitted or required by law, BBBSMM shares Program Participant information only among authorized staff and only for legitimate program purposes, including screening, matching, supervision, service delivery, safety, and program administration, consistent with the BBBSA Service Delivery Model.


To promote youth safety, well‑being, and high‑quality mentoring relationships, BBBSMM collects and evaluates information from Program Participants and from lawful external sources. This information may include confidential personal references, background checks, counseling or clinical reports, and other assessments, as permitted by law. The content of confidential references and third‑party reports is not disclosed to applicants or Program Participants. When non‑acceptance or program decisions are based, in whole or in part, on confidential sources or professional risk assessments, BBBSMM does not disclose specific underlying reasons.


Ownership, Access, and Record Management

All Program Participant records, including paper records, electronic files, photographs, video, and other media, are the sole property of BBBSMM. Records are not the property of staff members or Program Participants. Program Participant records are not available for review by Program Participants except as required by law.


BBBSMM maintains Program Participant records in a secure manner and limits access to authorized staff only, consistent with nonprofit best practices and applicable law.


Consent and Authorized Disclosures

Information about Program Participants will be released to individuals or entities outside BBBSMM only with the prior written consent of the Program Participant or the parent or legal guardian, except as permitted or required by law and as described in this policy.


Identifying information, including names, photographs, video, or likenesses, may be used in BBBSMM publications, fundraising, marketing, or promotional materials unless the Program Participant or parent or legal guardian submits a written request restricting such use. Such requests apply prospectively and do not affect materials already in circulation.


For purposes of program evaluation, audit, monitoring, or accreditation, BBBSMM may permit access to Program Participant records by approved external entities, including BBBSA, upon authorization by the Board of Directors and in accordance with applicable Standards of Practice. Members of the Board of Directors or Board authorized evaluators may access Program Participant files only as specifically authorized.


Information will be released to law enforcement or the courts only in response to a valid subpoena, court order, or other legal requirement. Information may also be shared with BBBSMM’s legal counsel in connection with actual or potential litigation.

 

Mandatory Reporting and Safety Obligations

Under Wisconsin Statute § 48.981, BBBSMM staff are mandated reporters and are legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect to the appropriate county child protective services agency or law enforcement authority. Reports made in good faith are confidential and are protected from civil and criminal liability under Wisconsin law.


If BBBSMM staff receive information indicating that a Program Participant may present a credible risk of serious harm to themselves or others, BBBSMM will take reasonable and appropriate actions to protect all involved parties. Such actions may include referrals for medical or mental health evaluation and or notification of law enforcement, as permitted or required by law.


Information Sharing for Matching Purposes

When a youth or volunteer mentor is being considered for a prospective match, BBBSMM shares relevant and appropriate information with prospective match parties to support safety, informed consent, and match success.


Information shared about volunteers may include age, gender, race or ethnicity, religion, interests and hobbies, marital or family status, sexual orientation, and/or living situation. Information shared about youth, families and/or legal guardians may include age, gender, race or ethnicity, religion, interests and hobbies, family composition or circumstances, sexual orientation, and/or living situation.


Only information deemed relevant and reasonably necessary for matching decisions and ongoing supervision will be shared. Disclosure of such information does not imply endorsement, agreement, or valuation of any personal characteristic. Such information is shared solely to support informed consent and match compatibility and is never used as a basis for discrimination by BBBSMM.


Authorization, Release, and Waiver

I understand that limited confidential information, including professional observations and assessments by BBBSMM staff, may be shared with parents or legal guardians of a prospective Little and or with prospective volunteers for purposes of screening, matching, supervision, and program participation.


I authorize the limited use and disclosure of such information in accordance with this policy, applicable Wisconsin law, and BBBSA Standards of Practice. I release and waive any claims against BBBSMM, its employees, agents, and members of the Board of Directors arising from the good‑faith use or disclosure of information consistent with this policy and legal obligations. 
Volunteer Acknowledgement

Communicable Disease Policy

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee (BBBSMM)

Purpose and Guiding Framework

BBBSMM is committed to delivering high quality, evidence based mentoring services while prioritizing the health, safety, and wellbeing of children, families, volunteers, and staff. Decisions related to communicable diseases are made using current medical and public health guidance and consider the nature of the illness, how it is transmitted, the symptoms and individual circumstances involved, and a careful, individualized assessment of potential risks and reasonable alternatives.

 

Definition of Communicable Diseases

Communicable diseases include illnesses that can spread from one person to another, such as measles, influenza, RSV, hepatitis A/B, COVID19, tuberculosis, and other infectious diseases identified by local, state, or federal ‑public health‑ authorities.


BBBSMM may revise or expand this definition as necessary, consistent with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other public health agencies.


Non‑Discrimination

BBBSMM does not discriminate against any program participant on the basis of having, or being perceived as having, a communicable disease.


All participation decisions are based solely on legitimate health and safety considerations and never on stigma, misconceptions, or assumptions. BBBSMM will make participation decisions based on an individualized assessment and will consider reasonable accommodations as required by applicable nondiscrimination and disability laws.


Program Participation and Temporary Restrictions

If a participant develops a communicable disease while matched, they should contact BBBSMM immediately. BBBSMM may temporarily restrict or suspend participation in program activities when, based on current medical or public health guidance, such action is necessary to protect the health and welfare of program participants, staff, or the individual affected by a communicable disease. Decisions may consider symptoms consistent with a communicable illness, recent exposure to a confirmed or suspected case, applicable isolation or exclusion guidance from public health authorities, and prevailing community level health conditions. Any restrictions will be limited in scope and duration, reviewed regularly, and lifted when conditions allow. BBBSMM does not disclose a participant's communicate disease unless the participant is matched and it is necessary for the other party to be alerted.

Volunteer Acknowledgement

Weapons/Firearms Policy

Volunteer Acknowledgement


Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee conducts criminal history record checks on all prospective Volunteer Bigs at enrollment and on all active volunteers annually. Criminal history record checks include a search of public domain records, driving records, criminal background check, fingerprint check, and other records where required by local, state or federal law for volunteers working with youth. Information gained from background checks may be discussed with the potential or active Volunteer Big and then discussed with the Little’s Parent/Guardian to ensure child safety.
Volunteer Acknowledgement


Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee (BBBSMM)

BBBSMM volunteers must review and comply with this Social Media Policy. As a volunteer Big/Mentor and representative of BBBSMM, you are expected to use sound judgment and uphold the organization’s standards whenever engaging on social media.


Safety, Confidentiality, and Youth Protection

Protecting the safety, privacy, and confidentiality of your Little/Mentee is your highest priority. Bigs/Mentors must never share identifying or personal information, including names, locations, schools, schedules, or real-time whereabouts of their Little/Mentee. Even general posts should avoid details that could reveal a youth’s identity or location. Bigs/Mentors should not use geo-positioning applications when they are with a Little/Mentee.


For example, it is acceptable to share general experiences (e.g., attending a game together), but not details that identify the youth or their family.


Bigs/Mentors must also ensure devices and accounts used with Littles/Mentees have appropriate privacy settings and content restrictions. Any concerning or unsafe social media activity must be reported to BBBSMM staff immediately.


Social Media Connections with Littles/Mentees

Bigs/Mentors may only connect with Littles/Mentees on social media with parent/guardian permission and when age appropriate. If approved, Bigs/Mentors must maintain strict privacy settings, follow all safety and media release rules, and ensure that Littles/Mentees are never tagged, identified, or searchable in posts. Parents/guardians should have access to and monitor their child’s accounts.


Approved communication methods may include MentorPro, email, text, phone, mail, and/or video conferencing, depending on program guidelines.


Media Release and Posting Content

Photos, videos, or any identifiable information involving a Little/Mentee may only be shared if a BBBSMM approved parent/guardian media release is on file. If you are unsure whether consent has been granted, do not post. Bigs/Mentors are responsible for confirming approval with BBBSMM staff.


Professional Conduct and Public Responsibility

Volunteers are responsible for their online presence. Content that could negatively impact BBBSMM, your role as a mentor, or public trust is not appropriate even if you are not “connected” with a Little/Mentee through a social media site.

Because online privacy is never guaranteed, assume that anything posted could become public. When in doubt, consult BBBSMM staff before posting.


Appropriate Content and Role Modeling

As a mentor, you are expected to model behavior appropriate for a child and family audience. Do not post or share content involving offensive language, sexual content, substance misuse, explicit partying, or other topics deemed inappropriate for youth. This expectation applies to all content, including photos, captions, comments, and shared posts, regardless of whether BBBSMM is mentioned.


Privacy, Monitoring, and Enforcement

Volunteers are encouraged to keep personal accounts private and be mindful of online associations, as these reflect on both the individual and BBBSMM.


BBBSMM may monitor volunteer social media activity as part of screening and background checks and periodically to ensure policy compliance and youth safety.  Violations of this policy may result in corrective guidance, required content removal, communication restrictions, and/or termination of the mentoring relationship.

Volunteer Acknowledgement

Virtual Communication Platform Consent
Big Brothers Big Sisters has developed a digital platform to help Bigs and Littles stay in touch more easily in a safe and secure way. Participation in this platform and use of other electronic communication tools requires permission.

I consent, should I be matched, to having contact with my Little through Big Brothers Big Sisters' digital platform.
Media Consent and Release Form

Electronic Signature
I CONSENT TO AND UNDERSTAND THAT:
  1. The references I listed may be contacted by mail, telephone or email.
  2. Other Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies or youth organizations where I have worked or volunteered may be contacted as references.
  3. I am in no way obligated to perform any volunteer services.
  4. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee is not obligated to match me with a youth and may deny my application or close my match at any time, and to protect all participants’ confidentiality, BBBS is not required to disclose reasons for doing so;
  5. I will be asked to provide my social security number and I may need to be fingerprinted.
  6. Failure to disclose any arrest(s), charge(s) or conviction(s), will directly impact the agency’s decision to advance my enrollment application.
  7. Information gained from background checks may be discussed with the potential or active Volunteer Big and then discussed with the Little's parent or guardian to ensure child safety.
  8. As part of the enrollment process, I will be required to provide additional personal information, including completion of an in-person interview; prior to any recommendations for program acceptance.
  9. In pursuit of funding or  other partnership opportunity, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee may share that I am a volunteer with my employer or academic institution. 
  10. In the event of the agency’s determination of my ineligibility, reasons for non-acceptance will not be disclosed, in accordance with agency policy.
  11. I understand the information I provide in the enrollment process will be kept confidential, unless disclosure is required by law.
    • I understand that detailed accounts of child abuse or neglect, past or present, will be reported to proper authorities;
    • I understand that certain relevant information about me will be discussed with the parent/guardian of a child who is a prospective match (this might include demographic information, information relevant to parent/child preferences, and any information relevant to a child’s safety or well-being);
  12. It is my responsibility to update the agency if any of the information I provide on this application, in my interview, or any other information provided during the enrollment process changes (i.e. address, phone number, auto-insurance, new criminal charges, etc.).
  13. I agree to complete questionnaires throughout my time in the program to evaluate and improve program services;
  14. I agree to timely communication and follow-up with all agency staff as required by the agency.
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING THIS APPLICATION
I understand that this is an application for a volunteer opportunity and is not a promise or commitment by Big Brothers Big Sisters.

I certify that all information I have provided or will provide to Big Brothers Big Sisters, including this application, is true, accurate, and complete to the best of my knowledge. I certify that I have and will answer all questions to the best of my ability and that I have not and will not withhold any information that would affect my application for a volunteer position. I understand that information contained in my application will be verified by Big Brothers Big Sisters.

I understand that misrepresentations or omissions may be cause for my immediate rejection as an applicant or my termination as a volunteer. At any time while involved with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, I agree to immediately inform my Big Brothers Big Sisters contact person of any and all infractions, violations, charges, and convictions related to any civil, domestic, or criminal matters. I understand that BBBS staff needs to be fully informed to provide the best guidance or support possible. I have read and understand documents containing policies in the enrollment form including, but not limited to:
  • Non-discrimination Policy
  • Volunteer Rules and Responsibilities
  • Confidentiality Policy
  • Communicable Disease Policy
  • Weapons/Firearms Policy
  • Background Check Policy
  • Social Media Guidelines for Volunteers
  • Virtual Communication Platform Consent
  • Media Consent and Release Form
PLEASE NOTE - After submitting this form with the electronic signature on the next page, you will receive an email with a link to verify the signature. YOU MUST CLICK THE LINK TO VERIFY SUBMISSION IN ORDER FOR THE FORM TO BE COMPLETE.