I've been in BBBSNT for about 2 years now and it's a great program. Helps that North Texas has one of the biggest and most active districts. They always provide tickets and info about a variety of local activities such as music, arts, and sports for kids and they host great picnics every May as well. The only problem I have is that we have had 4 different match consultants, so I have never felt like any consultant really known my little and I. If anyone is interested in the program, feel free to pm me with questions, maybe we can go to an info-meeting/lunch together. read more

I have been a Big Brother to a 9 year old boy for 1 year and 5 months so far and it has been an amazing experience. We hang out for about an hour once a week unless I'm traveling or sick. Sometimes BBBS gives us tickets to special events or I take him for ice cream but the most important thing I can do is spend time with him even if it's just walking around the park or going to the library. I don't consider myself a stellar role model but just getting consistent attention from a male is something he has lacked and I've seen a lot more stability and happiness in him since we started. A few other people have complained of their match support contact changing but I have had Elizabeth as my contact since the beginning and she has been great. Also, it's important to set boundaries from the beginning otherwise the kids will see how much they can get you to spend on them. But as long as you give them clear expectations on how much time and money you will invest, then when you tell them 'no I'm sorry I can't do that' then they will still trust and love you (even though they may pout). For example, I explained to my Little that it was his Mom's job to provide for him and that, as his big brother, I like treating him occasionally but it is not my role to feed him and if he's ever hungry there is plenty of food at his home. Again, the main thing they need from you is attention on a somewhat consistent basis so you don't have to be a super hero. As I said, this has been awesome and even though there are weeks where I'm exhausted and don't feel like going to see him, we have formed such a close bond that I find myself bragging about how smart and funny he is to all my friends. All systems are flawed so don't expect perfection but overall this is a great program and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to invest a few hours a month to make a lifetime impact on a person. read more

I joined BBBS a few months ago, and I couldn't be more satisfied with my experience. It feels so good to give back to the community and know that I am changing the life of a child. We get to do some great things that we might not otherwise have an opportunity to do if it weren't for BBBS. The screening process was pretty simple (on my end) and everyone that I've been in contact with has been so helpful. This experience may not be for everyone, but I can promise it gives back even more than you put in. read more

Don't waste your time - because they'll sure waste yours. I spent over SEVEN MONTHS waiting and waiting and waiting for them to move forward with the application process. They'd mail me a letter, or an email, saying they're still reviewing my information. And another month or two would pass. Seriously? How long does it take to read the results of a background check and call a few references? Finally, after six months, they call me in for a two-hour interview. I've been a nanny, and have multitudes of other experiences with children - and I gave them numerous references. My background is spotless, and I go to church every Sunday. I'm a full time student finishing my bachelors, taking online courses - so my schedule is wide open. A month later they mail me a letter saying they can't accept me into the program - but won't tell me why. Um, excuse me - but I think I have the right to know why they rejected me. I'm pretty frustrated that an organization who desperately needs volunteers is throwing out a perfectly good candidate. I think it's very sad for the kids in their program who are desperately waiting for a mentor in life. I'm going to go volunteer at some of the women's and children's shelters, where I know I'll be needed and appreciated making a difference in someone's life. read more