Who We Serve: About Our Littles

Program Eligibility For Youth

Most children in our community-based programs come to us through their parent or caregiver. School personnel typically generate referrals for school-based program services.

The Guidance Center’s Big Brothers Big Sisters Program serves children:

• Ages 5 and older

• Who are residents of Jefferson, Elk and McKean Counties

• Have experiences some kind of hardship that may make growing up a little harder

• They want and can benefit from having an extra adult role model in their lives

• They live with a parent or guardian who is willing and able to support the match relationship

Situations in which a child may benefit from the program :

• Have an absent parent due to death, divorce, or separation.

• A parent who works long hours away from home

• Living in a large family with multiple children, which may limit one-on-one adult time

• Learning difficulties, social awkwardness, immaturity, or difficulties developing peer relationships

• A home environment where scarce resources/money limit the child’s exposure to opportunities, experiences, and activities that most children have

Process For Enrolling Youth:

• Parent/Caregiver contacts The Guidance Center and we gather some basic information

• We will schedule an interview in your home to learn more about your child's interests and needs

• Your child is then placed on a waiting list until a suitable mentor is identified.