Big Brothers Big Sisters of Big Sky Country

BBBS of Big Sky Country Group Volunteering Application

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

BBBS Contact Person Email

Contact ID 18 Character

Enrollment ID 18 Character

Contact Owner ID

Contact Owner Email

First Name

Middle Name

Last Name

Maiden/Alias/Prior Names

input NA if none

Preferred Name

Birthdate

Social Security Number

Gender

How do you identify?

Relationship Status

Race/Ethnicity

Tribal & Regional Corporation Affiliations

Nationality

To select multiple, hold CTRL/CMD and click.

Do you have a driver's license?

Driver's License Number

Driver's License State

Driver's License Expiry

Please upload a copy of your license

File can be a screenshot, PDF, or picture

Auto Insurance Effective Date

Auto Insurance Company

Please upload a copy of your auto insurance.

File can be a screenshot, PDF, or picture

Contact Information

Personal Email

Work Email

Alternate Email

Preferred Email

Mobile Phone

Work Phone

Home Phone

Preferred Phone

Best Time to Call

In general, do you prefer to be contacted by email or phone?

Mailing Address

Mailing Street Address

Mailing City

Mailing State

Mailing Zip Code

How long have you lived at this address?

Mailing address is different from residential address

Physical Address

Street Address

City

State

Zip Code

Emergency Contact Information

Name

Phone

Relationship

Employer Information

Employment Status

Name of Employer

Occupation

How long have you been employed here?

Employer Address Line 1

Address Line 2

City

State

Postal Code

Is it okay to call at work?

YesNo

Level of Education

Year Degree Obtained

Additional Information

Have you served in the military?

How did you hear about Big Brothers Big Sisters?

Referral Detail ID

Previous Experience

Have you previously applied to be or served as a Big with our agency or anywhere else?

YesNo

When?

Where?

Have you ever been involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters in a capacity other than a Big?

YesNo

When?

Where?

Have you ever been denied acceptance or released from service as a volunteer or employee with another Big Brothers Big Sisters Program or another youth-serving organization?

YesNo

When?

Where?

Have you ever actively volunteered or worked with youth in the past?

Volunteer Experience

Please list all past volunteer or employment experiences with youth you have had.

YSO Reference ID

Organization Name

Location

Start Date

End Date

Direct Supervisor First Name

Direct Supervisor Last Name

Phone

Email

Years Known

Reason for Leaving

Please provide at least three references below including:

Your spouse, partner, significant other OR a family member.
Current or former employee OR co-worker you have known for at least one year
A friend or neighbor OR community contact you have known for at least two years

Spousal/Family Reference

Spousal/Familial Reference ID

First Name

Last Name

Email

Phone

Relationship to you

Years Known

Professional Reference

Professional Reference ID

First Name

Last Name

Email

Phone

Relationship to you

Years Known

Minimum 1 year

Personal Reference

Personal Reference ID

First Name

Last Name

Email

Phone

Relationship to you

Years Known

Minimum 2 years

I consent to and understand that:

The references and youth-serving organization(s) I listed may be contacted by mail, telephone, email, or in person.
The information I provided may be used to conduct a background check, to include a search of public domain records, driving records check, juvenile and adult criminal history check, military records, and other records where required by local, state, or federal law for volunteers working with youth.
The BBBS agency 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.
Other BBBS agencies and youth organizations where I have worked or volunteered may be contacted as references.
As part of the enrollment processes, I will be required to provide additional personal information, including completion of an in-person interview.
I understand that 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).
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.)
I agree to complete questionnaires throughout my time in the program to evaluate and improve program services.
I agree to timely communication and follow-up with all agency staff as required by the agency.

I accept the terms and conditions

Pre-Interview Questionnaire

Prior to your enrollment interview, please answer the questions below. The information you provide will also help us make a better match for you and assure we can support you during your involvement with our program. Please note that you will have an opportunity to discuss these questions and your responses more thoroughly during your interview.

What languages do you speak fluently? (select all that apply)

Do you anticipate any significant life changes over the next year or have you had any this past year? (ie. job or schedule changes, moving, new family member, etc.)

YesNo

Please describe:

Have you ever been accused, arrested, charged, or convicted of a crime?

YesNo

Please describe:

Have you had any driving citations and/or moving violations in the past five years?

YesNo

Please describe:

Release of Information Authorization for Background Check

I understand it will be necessary for BBBS to check my background regarding criminal history, driving record, character references, and employment records now and annually until my affiliation with the agency has officially ended. I do give my consent for any agency such as: police, sheriff, courts, social services, etc., to release any information concerning me, either of public record or otherwise, and to furnish it to BBBS. I further understand that it is my responsibility to inform BBBS of any infractions of the law including motor vehicle violations.
Please know that Big Brothers Big Sisters of Big Sky Country has the right to not accept a volunteer at any time and the reasons for this do not have to be disclosed to the volunteer.

Criteria for automatic disqualification is included but not limited to:

Factors of Automatic Disqualification

● Failure to complete the application and screening process (including unwillingness to submit to a background check)

● Lying about criminal history

● History of Criminal Activity:

○ All offenses involving child abuse or neglect, regardless of the amount of time since the offense

○ All sex offenses, regardless of the amount of time since the offense and regardless of whether the individual completed therapy (e.g., child molestation, rape, sexual assault, sexual battery, prostitution, solicitation, indecent exposure, etc.)

○ All felony violence, regardless of the amount of time since the offense

○ All felony offenses other than violence or sex within the past 10 years (e.g., drug offenses, theft, embezzlement, fraud, child endangerment, etc.)

○ All misdemeanor violence offenses within the past 7 years (e.g., simple assault, battery, domestic violence, hit and run, etc.)

○ All misdemeanor drug & alcohol offenses within the past 5 years or multiple offenses in the past 10 years (e.g., driving under the influence, simple drug possession, drunk and disorderly, public intoxication, possession of drug paraphernalia, etc.)

○ Any other misdemeanor or crime within the past 5 years that would be considered a potential danger to children, involved children, or is directly related to the functions of that volunteer (e.g. contributing to the delinquency of a minor, providing alcohol to a minor, theft, etc.)

○ On parole or probation for any offense.

● History of any sexually exploitive behavior

● Termination from a paid or volunteer position caused by misconduct with a child

● Current substance abuse problems.

● Current or recent history of psychiatric problems.

Factors of Likely Ineligibility--Items below are at the staff’s discretion based upon time frame and frequency of violation(s)/occurrence:

● Sporadic job history

● Major upheaval (positive or negative) in applicant's life to which applicant has not yet adjusted (i.e., marriage, divorce, death of a close person, birth of a child or change of job, etc.)

● Driving record that demonstrates poor judgment in the operation of a motor vehicle, (i.e. violations, D.U.I, reckless driving, suspensions, accidents, etc.)

● Violation of Minor in Possession (MIP). If the offense is less than a year old, the applicant can be pending six months after MIP violation upon discretion of staff. If more than one offense, BBBS staff and COO will decide on an individual basis.

● Difficulty in establishing and sustaining close relationships as determined by interviews from BBBS Staff.

● Inappropriate role model as determined by interviews with BBBS Staff.

● Lack of readiness to take on the commitment of being a Big

● Lack of other personal qualifications.

I have read and understand the above Release and consent to the preparation and release of background reports to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and its designated representatives.

Volunteer Code of Conduct

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Big Sky Country (BBBS-BSC) adopts this Code of Conduct to define the acceptable standards of behavior for volunteer mentors (Bigs) and to provide a procedure for action whenever there are grounds to end services because participants have engaged in disruptive and/or unacceptable behavior. Volunteer Bigs are responsible for providing a safe and rewarding environment for the Littles.

It is expected that all Bigs within the BBBS-BSC program will abide by the following:

Bigs agree to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with their position as a positive role model to a Little, and as a representative of BBBS-BSC, as outlined in the match agreement.
Bigs will be solely responsible for the care of the Little while taking part in match activities and the Big will follow BBBS-BSC policy and guidelines around the safety of the Little as outlined in the Pre-Match Training. This includes the prompt reporting of any suspicion or disclosure of abuse or neglect to BBBS-BSC staff and Child Protective Services (CPS). This also includes never leaving your Little unattended or with someone who is not part of the
BBBS-BSC program (i.e. friends, roommates, family members, etc.)
Bigs agree to respect the privacy and dignity of the Littles and families we serve, by not divulging confidential information without consent, except where required by law, as in the case of suspected child abuse.
Bigs will follow the rules for posting on social media as outlined in BBBS-BSC social media guidelines and only post photos of the Little with consent from the parent/guardian and by using the Little’s first name only and never divulging the location of the Little (living address or school location).
Bigs will treat Littles, families, and BBBS-BSC staff with respect and honesty.
Bigs will refrain from discriminatory comments or actions in regard to sexism, racism, ableism, classism, homophobia, biphobia, transphobia and any other behavior.

If a Big does not abide by the Code of Conduct, their involvement within the BBBS-BSC program will be reviewed by the Program Director in consultation with the CEO and the program team. It will be the responsibility of the BBBS-BSC staff to determine if the volunteer can stay in the program or if they should be terminated as a Big. If a Big is terminated, BBBS-BSC may provide them with a list of alternate community resources and/or programs they could volunteer with if appropriate.

Policy Agreements

Volunteer Agreement to Protect the Confidentiality of Match Information

I agree to keep information discussed with me regarding a potential Little match confidential. I will not discuss this information with any person other than the assigned professional staff of BBBS. It is of utmost importance to keep child safety and confidentiality issues in mind; the Volunteer will not use the child’s last name nor any details regarding the child and their family when talking about the match to friends, family, co-workers, and when creating, updating, and communicating on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. To that end, it is best to refrain from providing any identifying information about my Little.

Social Media Policy: In general, personal use of social networking sites is typically for communications between peers, including friends and family. BBBS-BSC wants to reiterate that the match relationship is primarily that of a mentor. As such, you agree to not “friend” your Little on social networking sites.

I have read and understand the above information provided to me regarding Big Brothers Big Sisters' confidentiality and social media policies. I agree by the conditions set forth.

Drug, Tobacco, and Alcohol Policy: It is critical to the successful operation of our program and the physical and mental well-being of our Littles that each Big refrain from consuming alcohol, marijuana or using any illegal substance before or during the time they spends with their Little. This will ensure that the time Bigs and Littles spend together is of the highest possible quality and at no time will the Big be in any way impaired because of alcohol, marijuana or illegal substances. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Big Sky Country does not condone the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana or illegal substances of any kind while a Big is with their assigned Little. Big Brothers or Big Sisters who fail to comply with the Drug, Tobacco and Alcohol Policy of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Big Sky Country will be terminated from the Program.

I have read the Drug, Tobacco, and Alcohol Policy and agree to follow the conditions set forth.

Policy to Inform of New Charges: I agree to inform Big Brothers Big Sisters of Big Sky County, if, after I am matched and have become a Big, I incur the charge and/or the conviction of MIP (Minor in Possession) and/or the charge and/or the conviction of DUI (Driving Under the Influence). I acknowledge and agree that Big Brothers Big Sisters of Big Sky Country may consult with my Little’s parent/guardian, and the decision whether or not to maintain the Match rests with the parent/guardian.

I have read the Policy to Inform of New Charges and agree to follow the conditions set forth.

Publicity and promotional materials for Big Brothers Big Sisters are conducted in a variety of forms. May we use your name, image, likeness, appearance, or basic biographical information in these materials? By opting in, I give permission to be depicted by BBBS (e.g. through media such as photographs, quotations, video depiction, drawings) or otherwise for any purpose which the organization deems fit without compensation to me. I understand it is not guaranteed that I will be featured in any or all such media coverage.

Is there anything else we should know about you at this time or that you would like to share?

Group Match Guidelines

Friendship, on-site and supervised. This is a friendship between a Big and the Littles in their group, and it happens only during scheduled group sessions with a BBBS staff member present. Overnight visits and one-on-one outings outside the group setting are not permitted in this program. Our liability insurance covers match participants only during sanctioned program activities.
Attendance. Bigs commit to their group's scheduled day, time, and location. If you're ever unable to attend a session, contact your BBBS Program Manager as soon as possible so we can plan for your group.
You're a friend, not a therapist. As a Big, you're a friend and mentor to the Littles in your group — not a therapist, counselor, or disciplinarian. If a Little shares something that worries you, talk to a BBBS staff member right away.
Mandatory reporting. Like all BBBS volunteers, Bigs are required to report any suspicion of child abuse, neglect, or exploitation to a BBBS staff member immediately — even if you're not sure, it's always better to say something.
Boundaries, not discipline. Bigs aren't responsible for disciplining Littles, though maintaining clear, appropriate boundaries is part of the role. Bring behavior concerns to a BBBS staff member rather than handling discipline yourself.
No home visits or transportation. Littles may not visit a Big's home, and Bigs do not transport Littles in this program — all meetings happen at the approved group mentoring site only. Interested in home visits or outings instead? Ask a BBBS staff member about our one-to-one, community-based mentoring option, which has different guidelines.
Photos and media. Bigs may not take or share photos of any Bigs or Littles at group sessions. Only BBBS staff may take photos, since each participant has their own media release on file specific to how their image can be used.
Digital communication. Bigs should not contact a Little or their family using personal phone numbers, social media, or messaging apps. Any communication with a Little outside of sessions must go through an agency-approved, staff-monitored channel.
Alcohol & substances. Bigs may not be under the influence of alcohol or any substance that could affect their judgment, reactions, or a Little's safety while volunteering.
Weapons. Weapons of any kind — including firearms and knives — are not permitted at BBBS property or any group mentoring site.
Keeping the group a safe space. Because this is a group program, please help create a respectful, inclusive environment for every Little in your group. If you notice bullying, exclusion, or unsafe dynamics between Littles, step in if appropriate and loop in a staff member.
Confidentiality. What you learn about a Little and their family stays private. Don't discuss one Little's personal information with other participants, families, or outside the program.
Check-ins with BBBS staff. Your Program Manager will check in with you regularly about your experience — required contact happens within your group's first two weeks, then at least every two months during the school year plus once over the summer during your group's first year (every three months after that). Since The Group Chat is new, expect to hear from us at least this often, and likely more. These check-ins are also your chance to share feedback, ask questions, and hear about upcoming programming.

I agree to abide by the above guidelines. I understand that they are there to benefit the Volunteer/Child relationship. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian or Volunteer to report any infractions.

Child Safety Guidelines and Ground Rules for Volunteers

Acknowledgement of Obligations

Signing this form expresses my interest in becoming a member of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Big Sky Country (BBBS). I agree to take an active part in its activities and visit with my assigned Little on a consistent basis. I understand that this will not obligate me financially or legally. I further acknowledge and agree that I am not obligated, if called upon, to perform volunteer services herein applied for and that BBBS is not obligated to assign nor actively seek to assign a Little match to me.

I further acknowledge and agree that BBBS may, without incurring liability of any nature whatsoever to the undersigned, refer to the proper authorities any deviant behavior relating to illegal drugs, physical abuse, or sexual misconduct on the part of the participating Volunteer.

I also acknowledge that when I become a Big I also become a mandated reporter and will be required to make a report to BBBS staff and Child Protective Services (CPS). A report must be made by a Big if they have reasonable cause to suspect their Little is being abused or neglected in any capacity. BBBS staff will help guide you through this process should a report need to be made.

Respect for Privacy and Personal Boundaries

I am aware of the child’s personal boundaries regarding physical contact. For example, especially in the early stages of the match, asking the child if it’s okay to give a hug before giving a hug. Other forms of physical contact such as tickling, wrestling, patting, putting the child on my knee, etc. are likely to violate his/her boundaries. Displaying or discussion of any materials of a sexual nature is prohibited, including but not limited to viewing pornography or sexually suggestive materials. I must provide separate, private areas for the child to change clothes, bathe, shower, and/or sleep. I will never sleep or nap with the child in the same bed, sleeping bag, or couch.

Child Safety Documentation

BBBS’s first priority is the safety of the child. Volunteers and agency staff are mandatory reporters by state law; if Volunteer suspects abuse or neglect, Volunteer will contact the agency immediately.

I have read the above requirements, which define my responsibilities as a volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters. I agree to abide by them as long as I am in the program.

Application Acknowledgement

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 also understand that BBBS-BC reserves the right to accept or deny participants at any time. Reasons for the decision may not be disclosed.

I have answered these questions honestly and completely to the best of my knowledge.