We stand for Black lives. Black youth. Black futures.
See our COVID-19 Response & Resources

Resources & Support

Looking for education, child-development and mentoring info?

You've come to the right place.

Big Brothers Big Sisters Match Support Specialists have compiled a list of general resources that includes everything from activity ideas to information about after-school programs. The links listed below will direct you to external websites which are not endorsed by Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence.

 

Family Holiday Resource Guide

This year more than ever everyone is hoping to feel some joy and happiness during this holiday season, either by starting a new tradition with family (Holiday Zoom Parties, anyone?) or by simply taking time to relax, rest and recharge.  Realizing that you may also be looking for some extra support and help, we have put together a list of resources you can use to help obtain various needs for this holiday season.

The following counties are represented in our guide: Burlington, Camden, Chester, Delaware, Gloucester, Montgomery, and Philadelphia.

Visit our 2020 Holiday Resource Guide

Education & After-School Programs

  • A Better Chance – an organization designed to help high achieving students of color, grades 6 through 11, earn placement in some of the nation’s finest independent and public schools to be considered for placement and financial aid. Students admitted to the program also receive college prepatory skills and expanded educational and leadership opportunities.
  • Philadelphia Graduation Coach Campaign – visit their website for free resources including a guide to five key conversations to have with young people about education and their future.
  • FamilyEducation.com – academic skill-builders, homework tips and advice.
  • Philly ASAP – ASAP’s mission is to keep Philadelphia’s youth safe and active by facilitating supervised enrichment activities in the dangerous after school hours.
  • Philadelphia Department of Recreation – sports, arts, & cultural after-school and summer programs at Neighborhood Recreation Centers for youth & adults of all ages in Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Department of Recreation also offers summer job opportunities for high school students. Contact the main number to learn about the recreation center in your neighborhood or search their list of programs online.
  • Summer Reading Freebies – Summer reading programs are a great way to encourage Littles to read over the summer months to help them maintain or further develop their reading skills. So why not give them a little incentive to really get into that summer reading? This is a list of some great kid freebies for participating in reading programs.
  • U.S. Dept. of Education – a site especially for students -provides homework aids and information about planning, preparing and paying for college.

Child Development

  • Self-Esteem – strategies to help your Little develop self-esteem.
  • Socialization – information about socialization and ways you can help your Little with social situations.
  • Communicating:
    – Guidelines for parent/child communications or Big/Little communication.
    – Communication tips for parents or Bigs.
  • ADHD Kids – information about parenting and mentoring children with ADHD. Click here for a fact sheet with more information and activity suggestions for Littles with ADHD.
  • Centers for Disease Control – information about child development by age-range.

Drugs & Alcohol

Mentoring

Miscellaneous

If you and your Little have been wanting to do something which is just a bit out of the budget, One Simple Wish can assist you in making this wish come true! Click here for more information.

To keep you and your family safe while spending quality time together, the Safety Center at CHOP offers helmets, elbow, knee and wrist pads and life jackets, at affordable prices. Click here to learn more.

Teen Resources

Articles for Discussion with Teen Littles:

Visiting & Picking a College

Part-Time Jobs

Getting Motivated