Big Brothers Big Sisters Ocala
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Nature Coast serves Ocala, Marion County, and the surrounding region — matching caring adult volunteers with young people ages 6–18 for one-on-one mentoring relationships that make a lasting difference.
Content Freshness
Information verified through our 7-step process.See our standards →
What Big Brothers Big Sisters Does
Big Brothers Big Sisters is the nation's largest and most effective youth mentoring nonprofit. The local affiliate — BBBS of the Nature Coast — operates in Marion County and surrounding areas, creating carefully matched one-on-one relationships between adult volunteers and youth who could benefit from a consistent, positive adult presence in their lives.
The program focuses on youth ages 6–18, with particular emphasis on children who face adversity or who lack consistent adult role models outside the home. Matches spend time together in the community doing everyday activities — sports, cooking, exploring nature, visiting local events — building a genuine friendship over time.
BBBS staff support every match throughout the relationship, checking in regularly with both the Big and the Little's family to ensure the partnership is healthy, productive, and safe.
Two Ways to Get Involved
Whether you want to give back as a volunteer mentor or are a parent looking to enroll your child, BBBS has a path for you.
Adult volunteers age 18+ can become a Big Brother or Big Sister. You don't need special skills — just a willingness to show up consistently and be a positive presence in a young person's life.
- Adults 18+
- Commitment: 2–4 meetings per month
- At least a 1-year commitment preferred
- Background check required
- Training provided at no cost
Parents and guardians can enroll a child ages 6–18 in the program. BBBS works with families to find the right match, and the program is completely free for youth and their families.
- Youth ages 6–18
- Free for families
- Family interview required
- Waitlist may apply — enroll early
- Ongoing family support from BBBS staff
Types of Mentoring
BBBS offers two primary mentoring models, allowing the program to accommodate different schedules and settings.
Community-Based Mentoring
Bigs and Littles meet in the community — parks, restaurants, museums, sporting events, or anywhere the pair enjoys spending time. This flexible model works well for Bigs with varied schedules and gives youth broader community experiences.
Site-Based Mentoring
Matches meet at a designated site such as a school, after-school program, or community center. This structured setting is ideal for Bigs who prefer a consistent, supervised environment. BBBS partners with local schools and organizations in Marion County.
Volunteer Time Commitment
Being a Big is meaningful and manageable — it's designed to fit into a busy adult's life.
83%
of Littles show improved school performance (national BBBS data)
78%
report higher confidence and self-esteem (national BBBS data)
6–18
ages served by the program
2–4x
per month — typical Bigs meeting frequency
Impact statistics are based on national BBBS data. Individual outcomes vary. The most important factor in match success is consistent, genuine engagement between the Big and Little over time.
How to Get Started
Becoming a Big
Submit an Application
Complete the volunteer application online or at the BBBS Nature Coast office. The application asks about your interests, availability, and background.
Interview & References
A staff member will conduct a personal interview. You'll provide references who can speak to your character and reliability.
Background Check
All volunteers undergo a thorough background screening — this is a requirement for any adult working with youth in the program.
Training
New Bigs complete volunteer orientation covering program expectations, child development, relationship-building strategies, and safety guidelines.
Get Matched
BBBS staff carefully match each Big with a Little based on shared interests, geography, and compatibility. The matching process is thoughtful and individualized.
Enrolling a Child
Contact BBBS Nature Coast
Reach out by phone or through the BBBS website to express interest. A staff member will explain the enrollment process and answer questions.
Family Application
Parents or guardians complete an enrollment application for the youth (ages 6–18). The application covers the child's interests, needs, and family situation.
Family Interview
A BBBS staff member meets with the family to discuss the program, expectations, and what a successful match looks like for their child.
Matching Process
Staff work to find the right Big for each Little, considering shared interests and geographic proximity. This process can take several weeks to months depending on volunteer availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Nature Coast?
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Nature Coast is the local BBBS affiliate serving Marion County (Ocala), Citrus County, Hernando County, and surrounding areas. It matches adult volunteer mentors ("Bigs") with youth ages 6–18 ("Littles") for one-on-one mentoring relationships focused on positive youth development.
How much time does a Big need to commit?
Bigs typically meet with their Little 2 to 4 times per month for activities they choose together. Most matches spend 4–6 hours per month together. BBBS asks for at least a one-year commitment to allow time for the relationship to develop meaningfully.
Who can become a Big in Ocala?
Adults 18 and older who live or work in Marion County or the surrounding service area can apply to become a Big. Volunteers must pass a background check and complete orientation training. No special credentials are required — the most important qualities are consistency, genuine interest in a young person's well-being, and reliability.
How do I enroll my child in Big Brothers Big Sisters in Ocala?
Contact BBBS of the Nature Coast directly by phone or through their website to start the enrollment process for a youth ages 6–18. A staff member will walk your family through the application, an interview, and the matching process. There is typically a waitlist, so enrolling early is recommended.
Is there a cost to participate in BBBS in Ocala?
Big Brothers Big Sisters is free for enrolled youth and their families. The program is funded through donations, grants, and community partnerships. Bigs do pay for their own activities with their Little, though BBBS often has access to free or discounted community resources to help.