Did you know about the CHS Big Buddy program?

Big Buddies serve as one-on-one mentors, and sometimes as education advocates and surrogate parents for CHS children whose parents cannot be identified or located, who are wards of the state, or whose treatment at CHS would be enhanced by a positive role model.

Not all of the children at CHS have a Big Buddy. There are currently 17 Big Buddies in the program and there are five Little Buddies on the wait list. This is an opportunity for individuals only and not available to couples.

Qualifications:
Volunteers must be 21 years of age, with no prior relationship with the child (parent, teacher, relative etc.).

Time needed:
The position requires a minimum of two personal contact opportunities per month and, if needed, attending annual IEP (Individualized Educational Plan) meetings.

Duration:
We ask for a one-year commitment or the duration of the child’s stay through the date of discharge. Average length of stay for our children is 12-18 months, but some children are with us longer.

Background checks:
Volunteers are processed through central registry, fingerprinted, pass a drug screen test, and asked to provide three references. COVID and flu vaccination documentation or exemptions are required, as well. If you are a current staff member, there is no need for a new background or reference check.

Our staff believe that many of the current Little Buddies would do better with a male role model and these are a little more difficult to find. But we are always looking for males or females. If you or someone you know is interested, please email tammy.roberts@chssd.org.