BBBS respects the confidentiality of client and volunteer records and, with the exception of situations listed below, shares information about clients and volunteers only among the agency’s professional staff. The right to confidentiality applies not only to written records, but also to video, film, pictures or use of client or volunteer's names in agency publications. All records are considered the property of the agency and not of the agency workers, clients, or volunteers themselves.

Limits of Confidentiality Information will be released under the following circumstances:

1. Upon presentation of an authorized "Consent to Release Information" form signed by the parent/guardian or volunteer.

2. For promotional purposes with a signed copy of the “Consent to Use Identifying Information” form.

3. For purposes of program/case review, evaluation, audit, or accreditation to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, the Board of Directors, Program Committee and funding sources.

4. Pursuant to a valid and enforceable subpoena.

5. To agency legal counsel in the event of litigation or potential litigation involving the agency.  Such information is considered privileged information and its confidentiality is protected by law.

6. Identifying information necessary to comply with state laws mandating reporting suspected child abuse. The agency staff will follow reporting requirement of their respective jurisdiction and will comply with mandated procedures.

7. Upon receipt of information that a client or volunteer may be dangerous to himself/herself or to others. Necessary steps may be taken to protect the appropriate party, which may include a medical referral or a report to the local law enforcement authorities.

8. At the time a child or volunteer is considered as a match candidate, the following information is shared between prospective match parties.  

Volunteer: Age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, interests, household composition, reason for application, special skills, life threatening illnesses, employment and specific information that would affect the match relationship;

Parent/ client: age, gender, race, religion, interests, living situation, needs and expectations for the match, life threatening illnesses, and school or family information that would affect the match relationship. A copy of this information profile sheet will be provided to you at your request.

I agree to keep all information regarding a potential Big Brothers Big Sisters match confidential. I will not discuss this information with any other person other than the assigned professional staff. I have read and understand the above document.  I agree to program participation under the conditions it sets forth.

• 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 BBBSU, as outlined in the match agreement.
• The Big is solely responsible for the care of the Little while taking part in match activities and the Big will follow BBBSU 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 Family and Children’s Services.
• 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 BBBSU’s social media guidelines and only post photos of the Little with written consent from the parent/guardian (parent/guardian signed Consent to Use Identifying Information) 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 BBBSU staff with respect & honesty.
• Bigs will refrain from discriminatory comments or actions in regard to sexism, racism, ableism, classism, homophobia, biphobia, transphobia and any other behavior.