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December 2022 by Maria Vazquez
(Translated by Google) Very kind, God bless you for what you all do ??(Original)Muy amables dios los bendiga por lo que asen todos ??
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May 2022 by Joy Megas
Enrolled my child without my signature. Big sister “Leslie” refuses to return my phone call. Takes my daughter to her home in the presence of her husband. Leslie’s supervisor never returned my phone call or sent registration information. If the organization is so shorty with basic legal protocol, I would hate to think how Leslie or anyone would handle a situation that my daughter would get hurt or God forbid be taken? How does anyone NOT call back an 11 year old’s mother after 3 text messages and three voice mails?? Without a legal waiver to take her ice skating or to her home?
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August 2021 by Gina W.
Didn't have a great experience. My daughter never made it through the interview so take this for what that is. My daughter is 12 with learning disabilities and has a hard time answering questions. The lady interviewing her wouldn't let me be with my daughter as she was asking questions and most of her answers were I don't know because I wasn't allowed to help. When they got to questions about if I cared if my daughter was in a house that had guns and drugs in it I knew this wasn't the program for her
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February 2020 by Adan Garcia
My son attends it currently.Amazing program that’s all I’m saying..
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February 2020 by Anais Ocampo
Mi hijo de 10 y mi hija de 9 han formado parte de este grandioso programa por más de dos años. Tanto el programa como los Big Brothers toman el tiempo y dedicación a con cada uno de los pequeños. Es una experiencia de por vida.
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September 2019 by Dallas P.
My son is 11 with multiple disabilities but such a huge hearted kid. He does not have any male figures in his life. He has been battling a lot of issues and we have been denied 8 county programs due to my son having a diagnosis of autism (although very verbal and able to communicate). I was told with Big Brother that they were sorry and i will get the denial in the mail, but no explanation as to why he is denied. NO CHILD SHOULD BE DENIED! He should be given a chance and if it was too much then i understand but they set him up for failure and walked away. He's been waiting to hear from them. "When can me and a big brother go surfing?" "When can me and a big brother play toy story?" And now what? What do i tell him? How do i break his heart? I am single and probably always will be...that's not his fault!
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July 2019 by Cyndy G.
We have had a great experience being a Big Couple for our little brother. It's a little intimidating to go through the interview and screening process but so worth it to have an opportunity to spend time with a great kid! They provide a lot of support with monthly calls.
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July 2019 by Mary 'Spoon'
It’s been such a rewarding experience becoming a Big Sister to my Little. So far we have bonded over our love of food, getting our nails done, kayaking and facing our fears of open water together, seeing movies, listening to music, jumping around at SkyZone, building robots... endless fun! We just made it to the 6 month mark and I already know she'll be in my life for years to come. We celebrated by getting our nails done (a simple but favorite activity for both of us) and her mom got me thank you flowers! The 6 month mark is a hallmark because it indicates enough time and connection has gone by that you can bring them to more things, such as family events, or your home. This has been such a meaningful opportunity for me to not only become a mentor but gain a friend and sister, as well as network with a bunch of great people who want to make a difference in children's lives. I've never felt more passionate about an organization before, especially because I know every person involved has so much genuine heart in this program.
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July 2019 by Michael Nieman
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County is an incredible organization doing great work in the local community. Around four years ago, shortly after moving to Orange County, I began searching for non-profits that were dedicated to making an impact within the local community. I am so happy I decided to invest my time with BBBS. I have been a Big Brother now for over 3 years and feel so lucky to have been matched with Joshua. At this point, I am not sure who has taught who the most! I encourage you to take a moment to learn more about BBBS and consider volunteering your time to help change the lives of youth through mentorship, right here in your community.
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July 2019 by Brooke Abel
I have been a big sister for about 14 months now and have had nothing but positive experiences with BBBS! From the first big night I attended, to the interview process, match process, and meeting my little sister, everything was incredibly smooth and natural. Not only have I gotten a chance to make an impact on my 8-year old little sister's life, but she has made an even bigger impact on mine. We have so much fun together and I don't consider this to be another volunteer commitment, she is just a part of my life now and I can't wait to see what the future holds! I can't thank BBBS enough for their thoroughness, thoughtfulness into matching us together, and for continued support long after we have been matched. My Match Support Specialist, Janeth, is fantastic and I am glad to have her as a resource even over a year after we got matched. Thanks BBBS- would highly recommend getting involved if you are interested in an extremely rewarding and fun experience in Orange County!
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June 2019 by Tommy T.
I've been a Big Brother for over 4 years, and this organization is truly doing amazing things. Firstly, the people who run it are great very supportive, and can help you navigate being a mentor. Secondly, the other mentors are wonderful people, and great for networking and building community. It could be intimidating to become a mentor, but honestly, you just have to be yourself and invite your little to participate in your normal hobbies. For these kids, just spending time with someone older than they are makes them feel valued and builds their self-esteem. It's really not difficult, and if you want to make a difference in the community, BBBSOC is a great way to do it, one child at a time!
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June 2019 by Jim Pickell
A great cause with incredible people driving their mission and making a difference, every day.
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June 2019 by Mary '.
I just made it to the 6 month mark with my Little and I already know she'll be in my life for years to come. We celebrated by getting our nails done (a simple but favorite activity for both of us) and her mom got me thank you flowers! The 6 month mark is a hallmark because it indicates enough time and connection has gone by that you can bring them to more things, such as family events, or your home. This weekend I will be going to her sister's high school graduation and meeting all of her family, perfect timing! This has been such a meaningful opportunity for me to not only become a mentor but gain a friend and sister, as well as network with a bunch of great people who want to make a difference in children's lives. I've never felt more passionate about an organization before, especially because I know every person involved has so much genuine heart in this program.
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June 2019 by Vanessa H.
I've been a Big Sister for 1.5 years with the OC Chapter. It's fun to be part of a network of like-minded people and get to build a relationship with my Little Sister at the same time. We do something different every time we hang out -- soccer, arts & crafts, beach, food, movies, etc. It's not a chore, it's stuff we both enjoy! The time commitment to be a Big is 1 year, see your Little 2x a month, for ~3 hours each outing. The staff pairs you up based on compatibility and check in regularly in case you need advice or support. Would recommend -- sign up for a Volunteer Orientation on their website to learn more.
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June 2019 by Samantha L.
I have had the privilege of being involved with BBBS of Orange County and the Inland Empire for about a year. As a big sister they have provided something I didn't know I needed, a bond with my little sister whom who looks up to me and helps push me to be the best version of myself. I wasn't sure if this was something I was going to have the time to dedicate to, but through orientation and the interview process I discovered the asked time spent together is way more manageable than I could imagine! A couple times a month for a few hours! The employees have been so supportive and still are, I know I can always call, text or email if a question ever comes up. I was matched with Miranda based on similarities between the two of us and let's just say my match support specialist nailed it!! I would highly recommend this agency to anyone and everyone who has had the slightest inclination to be a mentor, it has been the most rewarding experience.