Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County is seeking 50 adult volunteers to serve as mentors for its School Friends program during the 2026-27 school year.
School Friends is a site-based mentoring program that pairs adult volunteers (Bigs) with students (Littles) at schools in Dane County.
Volunteers meet with their matched students for one hour each week during the school day, typically during lunch or after school.
“We know that a small investment of time each week can make a big difference in a child’s life,” Big Brothers Big Sisters of Dane County CEO Sandy Morales said in a press release. “The one hour a week gives volunteers the chance to build a lasting relationship, provide encouragement and be a positive presence in a student’s life.”
The program requires a minimum commitment of one school year, and the focus is on relationship-building with volunteers and students spending time together through activities such as playing board games, creating crafts, reading, eating lunch together or talking.
Returning School Friends matches will begin the week of Sept. 14, while newly matched Bigs and Littles will begin meeting the week of Sept. 28.
For the upcoming school year, School Friends mentors will work with kids in participating schools in Madison and Sun Prairie.
Adults interested in becoming a School Friends mentor can learn more and apply here.
