YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN JUST A FEW HOURS A MONTH

Careers in tech are the future & you can help youth be a part of it.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound and Amazon partnered to create a workplace mentoring program called Bigs In Tech. Bigs In Tech connects volunteers like you with local 6th-8th graders to help them learn about science and math skills, reinforce social emotional skills, and build solid 1 on 1 relationships. All are welcome - you don’t have to be a developer to be a “Big in Tech!”

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of training do mentors receive from BBBS?

You will take a 90-minute online training course and attend a 45-minute pre-match training session led by a Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound (BBBSPS) employee. You will connect with a Bigs in Tech Volunteer Support Specialist monthly for support. BBBSPS also offers optional extra training opportunities for mentors including Mental Health First Aid.

How will BBBSPS match me with a youth?

A member of the Bigs in Tech team will match you with a youth based on shared interests, stated preferences, personalities, etc. The match must be approved by the mentor and the youth before meeting. Matches will be introduced at the first Bigs in Tech meetup of the year in October.

How will I communicate with the youth?

Mentors and youth are allowed to communicate between sessions only if the youth’s parent/guardian approves this in a signed document. All such communication should be monitored by the parent/guardian.

How will BBBSPS staff communicate with me about the program, remind me of upcoming events, and offer me support?

You will be provided with a draft calendar during the application and interview process. At the start of the program, you will be provided with a set schedule for the program with dates for all activities. You will receive monthly emails and calls from the BBBSPS Volunteer Support Specialist to check in on how you’re doing and provide support.

What application requirements do I have to meet to be a mentor in this program?

You must be at least 21 years old. On your application form you will identify 3 references (one personal, one professional, and one from a significant other - if you do not have a SO then a close friend or family member will be fine). We will email them a reference form which they will complete. We will run 2 background checks. We do not have any vaccination requirements.

What is the timeline after I apply and how long does the process take before I have a match?

After we receive your completed application form you will be scheduled for a 60 – 90 minute virtual interview. You will then be offered a choice of Pre-Match Training times for you to sign up for. Your application approval time will depend on when your references are submitted. Recruitment for Bigs in Tech occurs over the summer months, with matching occurring in September as we follow the academic calendar.

Why is the application form so comprehensive?

BBBSPS is focused on youth safety and quality matches. We hold ourselves to high standards to keep young people safe and ensure a positive experience for both youth and mentors.