What Exactly Is a Match Support Specialist (and Why Are They Important to Mentors)?

One of the main aspects that sets Big Brothers Big Sisters apart from other mentoring organizations is the fact that each match is supported by a professionally trained staff. Once matched, the volunteer becomes part of a team made up of the Big, the Little, the Parent, and the BBBS staff. A Match Support Specialist (MSS) is trained to provide regular consultation in order to solve problems and strengthen the match. Bigs can utilize this resource to add value to the match experience and increase the quality of the mentoring relationship.

MSS are there to be a source of professional support and guidance throughout the match.

The MSS is there to provide advice, training, and positive reinforcement. Members of the staff know from experience that being a mentor is not always easy and we expect rough periods and challenges. However, we also know that while working through these rough patches, matches may grow stronger. The MSS can guide the volunteer on how to handle these situations as they occur.

As a result, our volunteers are never alone. No matter what the circumstances, chances are the Match Support Specialist has worked with other Bigs in similar situations. With the support of the BBBS professional staff, our volunteers are able to make a difference in a child's life.