Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Cayman Islands, who are we?

The Big Brothers Big Sisters Organization was founded over 105 years ago in New York by Court Clarke. There

are well over 550,000 volunteers in the USA alone. The program is established in over 38 different countries

around the world. The Movement was first introduced to Grand Cayman in the mid 1980s by Rev. Stanwyck Myles and others.

While BBBS is an independent not for profit organization, the program is now under the auspice of the Lions Club

of Grand Cayman and depends solely on sponsorship and fund raising events.

The aim of the organization is based on the premise that a one-on-one friendship with a caring adult can provide

the support a child needs to grow and mature in a positive way.

Who needs mentoring?

This is a frequently asked questioned because many believe that the program is for children with behavioral

problems, which is not so. The program exists to offer assistance to any child in need of a positive role

model. This may be due to the fact that parents are consumed by their jobs, or there is an absence of one of the

parents from the home.

How are children referred to the program?

Children are referred to the program by their parents, guardians, relatives, friends, community leaders,

teachers, as well as social services and the court occasionally.

Who can be a mentor?

A mentor is an adult that is willing to share his/her time with a child for the purpose of positive growth and

development.  Mentors don’t have to be rich, skilled in any particular sports, drive the latest model cars, live

in a big house or even have a degree. Therefore, if you feel like you can positively influence a

child you are well on your way to becoming a mentor.

How do I become a mentor?

It is very easy to become a mentor. There are four main steps in becoming a mentor.

1.    Fill out the basic volunteer application form

2.    Appear for an interview at the Office

3.    Provide a current police clearance record

4.    Schedule a home visit.

After all of the above are completed then a date is set to arrange for the match.

What type of mentoring programs are offered by BBBS?

BBBS offers two types of mentoring:
1.    The School Based Mentoring Program. This form of mentoring is for those who are not able to commit two

hours per week, but would like to offer some mentoring to a child. This type of mentoring is done primarily at

the schools during the lunch time of the students. The mentors will go through the same process as the other

mentors.

2.    The second type of mentoring is the Community Based Mentoring. This is the more popular and flexible type

of mentoring. This form of mentoring is done at the convenience of both the child and the adult. The adult is

expected to spend a minimum of two hours per week with the child. The good thing about this is, these two hours

can span over the seven days or over the weekend.

How long can I be a mentor?

The program requires that each mentor sign a contract for one year. This ensures consistency and continuity. The

contract is renewable after each year.

What do Bigs usually do with their Littles?

While BBBS hosts events from time to time for the Bigs and the Littles, we encourage them to take advantage of

other community’s events. Some activities could include but are not limited to; fishing, beach trip, cooking,

farming, outings, attend special functions (including church), homework assistance, and other community events.

Where can I get more information and an application form?

You may contact the BBBS Office at 33 Eclipse Drive (off Eastern Avenue, next to the Television center) in the

MCR Building on 945-6315 / 745-BBBS (2227). The office is open Monday to Friday from 8am - 4pm.