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.