Do I have to be a current or former Big/Mentor in order to join?

No. While we are expecting the majority of members to be alumni mentors or mentees from the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, anyone may become a member as long as they are willing to make the donation commitment and are ready to help us achieve great impact in the community

Is BIGs Who Care limited to men or women?

No. Unlike other 100 Men/Women Who Care initiatives in the community, there are no gender restrictions on membership. BIGs Who Care welcomes members from all walks of life and does not discriminate on any protected grounds.

How Does Big Brothers Big Sisters Use My Donation?

100% of your donation goes directly to Big Brothers Big Sisters and its life-changing mentoring programs. The organization prides itself on having low administrative and fundraising costs, maximizing the impact that donations have on the lives of young people. Through the BIGs Who Care initiative specifically, your gift will support all key aspects of BBBS programming:

• Recruitment, Screening, Training and Monitoring of volunteer mentors

• Intake, Matching and Monitoring of youth mentees

• Healthy snacks for mentees participating in group programming

• Community outings for matches and groups

• School supplies and sporting equipment for youth enrolled in school-based programs

Is my donation tax deductible?

Yes, as Big Brothers Big Sisters is a registered charity and the only recipient of your donations, 100% of your gift is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donations can be made via credit card, debit card or cheques made out to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Halton & Hamilton (legal name). You will be required to provide your full name, mailing address, email and phone number in order to receive a charitable tax receipt. Charitable tax receipts will be issued promptly once your donation is received.

What if I cannot attend a meeting?

If a member cannot attend a meeting they can do one of two things:

1. They can send in a signed cheque with a trusted friend to the meeting (preferred). The friend will give it to the organizers on their behalf. Alternatively, you can mail your cheque to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Halton & Hamilton, 639 Main Street East, Hamilton, Ontario, L8M 1J4

2. The member can donate online at https://haltonhamilton.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/donate-now/, selecting “BIGs Who Care” from the Fund dropdown menu.

3. The member can also call the BBBS office at 905-525-3860 ext. 307, to process a Credit Card donation over the phone

Can I just give you four post-dated $100 cheques?

Ideally no, because we want to see you at our meetings! But if you are not a local resident, or if you know you’re going to miss all the meetings, contact us and we’ll see if we can help.

How long do the meetings last?

Meetings are intended to be very short and no longer than 60 minutes. That being said, there will be the opportunity to socialize and network before and after the meeting.

Can I bring a friend to the meeting?

Of course you can! We are always looking for BIGs who care to grow this initiative! They are free to observe and contribute a donation if they feel inspired.

Does any of my donation go to administration costs of BIGs Who Care?

No, 100% of every donation goes directly into Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs.

Can my company sponsor the BIGs Who Care initiative?

Yes! Big Brothers Big Sisters and BIGs Who Care is always looking for businesses to sponsor this initiative. By putting your brand in front of our members, your company will be demonstrating its commitment to making the community a better place, and improving the lives of young people.

What do you do with my personal information?

Bigs Who Care and Big Brothers Big Sisters collects your personal information (including name, address, email address, phone number) strictly for the purpose of maintaining our membership list. We will not sell, give or otherwise share your personal information without your express consent, unless required by law.