About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa

What does Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa do?

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers ('Bigs') and children ('Littles'), ages 5 through 14, in Polk, Warren and Dallas counties. We develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people. Professionally trained Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa staff members work with partners in education and parents to find children facing adversity and assess how our programs can have the greatest impact. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa targets children who need us most, including those living in single parent homes, growing up in poverty and coping with parental incarceration.

How does bowling help Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa?

When you participate in Bowl For Kids' Sake, you have the power to change lives for the better, forever. The money raised from Bowl For Kids' Sake helps us to carry out the work of carefully matching children with caring adult mentors and providing ongoing support to the child, volunteer mentor and child's family. Today you can register as a bowler or donate to our efforts to change the life of a child forever!

How a Big... becomes a Big. How a Little... becomes a Little.

Before we make a match, we do our homework. After someone expresses an interest in becoming a Big, they go through an extensive background check and interview process. We then carefully match Bigs and Littles based on location, personalities and preferences. Once matched, we provide full support from the start, so matches can grow into lasting, impactful friendships. The entire matching process is made possible through donations—we can't do what we do best without them!

What does a Big and Little do?

Each match is unique. Getting together doesn't require a special occasion or expensive activity—just a few hours every month doing things the Little and Big enjoy. Some examples include playing catch, reading books, going to the science center or zoo, playing board games and more. Some Bigs meet their Littles on the weekends. Others get together with their Littles in the evenings. Each match develops a schedule that works for them. Sometimes the best place for enjoying activities together is at the child's school. And, the best part is, it can be a great learning experience, in or out of the classroom. Learn how you can make a difference in the life of a child by becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister.