Volunteer Together. Make a Bigger Impact.
Couples can now mentor together with Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego. Join our new and innovative Big Couple program, where you and your partner can change a child’s life, together.
Be a Big Couple. Share the Journey. Change a Life.
When you volunteer as a Big Couple, you and your partner can make a lasting difference together. By mentoring a Little as a team, you’ll offer consistent support, shared experiences, and double the encouragement.
What Is a Big Couple?
Big Couples are two adults in a committed relationship who volunteer together to mentor one Little Brother or Sister. You’ll be matched with a Little (ages 7 – 18) needing a positive role model.
As a Big couple, you will offer guidance, friendship, and encouragement by participating in activities as a trio, such as going to the park, grabbing pizza, going for ice cream, exploring hobbies, or just hanging out, talking, and offering guidance.
“I think being a part of a Big Couple is such an amazing fit for both my partner and me because we get an opportunity to not necessarily just hang out with one another but also have the opportunity to impact another human being in their life.”
— Annalicia, Big Sister, one half of a Big Couple
Are We Eligible?
To become a Big Couple, you must:
- Be in a committed relationship for at least 2 years
- Live together in San Diego County
- Both be at least 21 years old
- Both pass a background check
- Have a valid Social Security number
- At least one partner must have a driver’s license, reliable transportation, and car insurance
Our Littles come from a variety of backgrounds, and we do our best to match you with a Little whose personality, interests, and location align with yours.
“It’s been really exciting for us, especially when we get to see the smile on his face, knowing that this is his first experience in the program or at the event that we go to. We recently, for example, got to take him to the beach. He had never been boogie boarding before.”
— Alfred, Big Brother, the other half of a Big Couple
What’s the Commitment?
Big Couples commit to:
- Spending time with their Little 2 to 4 times per month for 2 (min) to 5 (max) hours each time
- A 6 month minimum requirement
- Supporting your Little’s growth and confidence over the course of at least one year
- Communicating regularly with your Match Support Specialist to ensure a healthy, thriving match
Our team will be with you every step of the way with training, match support, and resources. We are committed to ensuring that you’re never in this alone.
“As both the CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Kansas City and a proud member of a Big Couple match, I can say without a doubt that this is one of the most impactful programs we offer. Being able to mentor together not only strengthens your own relationship, but it also brings twice the encouragement, support, and stability to a young person who needs it. We’ve seen firsthand the incredible difference Big Couples can make in a child’s life.”
— Michael Lawrence
CEO of BBBS Kansas City
Becoming A Big Couple
Tell Us About Yourself
Fill out our brief questionnaire so that we can guide you through the process. We’re excited to get started!
Connect with BBBS San Diego
We’ll schedule a chat to get to know you better as a couple and ensure we make the right match for you both.
Get Matched with Your Little!
BBBS San Diego provides guidance and support for both of you and your “Little” on this life-changing journey!
You + Your Partner = One Powerful Match
Ready to make a difference together? Start your journey as a Big Couple today.
FAQ for Big Couples
1. Why become a Big Couple instead of volunteering individually?
Becoming a Big Couple allows you and your partner to mentor together, offering a unique and powerful example of a healthy, supportive relationship. Many Littles benefit from seeing how two adults work as a team, communicate, and care for one another. It’s a meaningful way to grow as a couple while making a life-changing difference in a young person’s life.
2. Will we get matched faster as a Big Couple?
Yes! Our program has Little Brothers on the waiting list who are especially excited to be matched with Big Couples. Participating as a couple often accelerates the matching process, enhancing a child’s life while you and your partner experience the joy of a positive mentorship dynamic!
3. What if one of us has more time than the other? Can we still apply?
Both partners should be involved, but we understand that schedules vary. What matters most is consistency, communication, and showing up as a team. Many couples find that they balance each other out, making the experience even richer for their Little. We also have our match support specialist team; who will be a valuable resource to you both and offer you tools to best schedule your monthly hangs with your little!
4. How will this impact the child we’re matched with?
Big Couples provide not only friendship and guidance, but also model healthy love, teamwork, and reliability. This can be deeply inspiring for a Little. Your presence can boost their confidence, open new doors, and help them dream bigger for their future.
