1. Match Duration and Evaluation: Maintain the match for a minimum of six months. If the match extends beyond twelve months, all parties will complete an annual evaluation to determine whether it should continue. If the match lasts beyond the first year, it will be assessed quarterly.
2. Match Frequency: Schedule match activities at least twice a month, with no more than four outings per month, each lasting 2-5 hours. Communication through phone calls, video conferencing, and/or emails between the Big and Little is encouraged on weeks when no in-person meetings are scheduled.
3. Overnight Visits: Overnight visits are strictly prohibited. Any occurrence will result in the immediate closure of the match, with no exceptions.
4. Communication with Match Support Specialist: Bigs, Parents/Caregivers agree to maintain regular communication with the assigned Match Support Specialist by responding promptly to calls, emails, and other contact as needed. Failure to communicate at least monthly will result in match closure.
5. One-on-One Match Integrity: Support the one-on-one nature of the match by not involving friends, spouses, or significant others in match activities. Siblings, friends, cousins, and other children may not participate in the match activities.
6. Open Communication: All parties will maintain open, regular communication, share responsibility for scheduling activities, and relay relevant information to foster the relationship. This includes updates on personal matters (e.g., trips, availability changes) and contact information updates (e.g., phone number, address, email).
7. Activity Support: BBBS of SDC provides ideas for free or low-cost activities. Although not required, parents/caregivers are encouraged to contribute $5-$10 for the Little's outing expenses. If financial constraints prevent this, parents/caregivers should communicate openly with the Big to help plan the outing accordingly.
8. Preparedness for Match Activities: Parents/Caregivers agree to have their child ready and on time for activities, dressed appropriately, and fed if needed. They will ensure proper supervision when the child returns.
9. No Cancellations Due to Behavior: Parents/Caregivers will not cancel match outings due to the child's behavior.
10. Social Media and Online Privacy: Bigs will not share personal social media profiles (e.g., Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, X, Facebook) or post photos/videos with the Little unless permitted by the Match Support Specialist and Parent/Caregiver.
11. Addressing Issues: Contact the Match Support Specialist immediately if any issues arise between the Big, Parent/Caregiver, or Little. Early communication helps resolve miscommunications and ensures the match receives the necessary support.
12. Child Safety Guidelines: Adhere to the Big Brothers Big Sisters of San Diego County Child Safety Guidelines during all interactions with BBBS of SDC.
13. Home Visits: Littles may visit the Big’s home after being matched for at least six months, with prior approval from the Parent/caregiver and Match Support Specialist.
14. Positive Match Closure: Facilitate a positive match closure by ensuring one final outing or phone call before the match officially closes, to help ensure a healthy and thoughtful conclusion. Contact the Match Support Specialist in advance to discuss an individualized closure plan.