I would think it would be very beneficial to a child to know someone with a disability and see them living their life. It could teach them an understanding and compassion that most of us didn't get until we were adults.

I'm sorry - it's unfair and they are missing an amazing opportunity.

Okay, that's just bogus. Someone like my step-son son, who has high functioning autism, could have really used a Big Brother and he doesn't play sports or do really active things . . .he just needed a friend. My kid is 18 now, but I know there are a lot of kids out there who simply need someone to talk to or hang out with, even go to the library with. Not all kids can do physical activities that might tax someone with Fibro.

I'm so sorry they treated you that way.

Here's a suggestion, though. Most urban areas have these safety centers for children where parents who were in abusive relationships can facilitate child visitation. Sometimes it is just a safe place to exchange the child between parents so that the abused ex doesn't have to see the abuser. Other times it is a place where the abuser can visit with the child under court-ordered supervision. These places often need volunteers. The volunteers are observers mostly, and they are important in making this space enjoyable for both parent and child so that the visits go well. It is a way to help parents and children rebuild their relationships in a safe space. This is not a physically taxing volunteer position, but it is SO important. You could consider something like that, as they often do not get enough male volunteers.

Just a thought. :-)

Did they give a reason? Perhaps they thought you couldn't be consistent?

I Know alot of People with Disabilities who are Big Brothers/Sisters..this makes no sense...are you SURE This is the Reason ? If they Put that in Writing I think I would be Talking to someone..total BS.

Good for You for At Least TRYING !!

Hugs !

I am so sorry that this happened to you! Shame on them!

Hmm, I actually have my application in hand, enveloped and stamped for Big Brothers, Big Sisters. I wonder what they are going to say to me. If this is an organization wide policy or what?

Shame on them. You know what that says to me when they want a donation. NO WAY!!!

I am just wondering why you have to tell them you have fibro. That sounds like discrimination to me. I am sorry they treated you that way. But, kudos to you for trying to help others.

To All:

Of Course they wouldn't come out and say it. But I am and have always been a very active volunteer so I know that my credentials would never be an issue. It isn't over yet though for I will be contacting corporate office next week. They have messed with the wrong disabled person!!!

I'm sorry they turned you down pford. Try not to take it personnally .

I agree with "Peace.. and Muneraven" your compassion and precious time would benefit many children.

Anyone could see you are a thoughtful and caring person with a desire to help in any way you can.

I wonder if what "Youdon't".. said about the thought they may be worried you may not be consistent.
Many of the children in the program have a lack of consistentcy in their lives and need that big sister to rely on.

Maybe you could help your local library or schools with after school programs or even at recess.

Thank you for your thoughtfulness and caring.

I would ask for clarification on their determination of excluding you from their program.

You have that right to know.

Oh my heavens. Sounds like my round-and-round with adoption. They figured my epilepsy was too "troubling" for the kid. Ummm....Epileptics have kids all the time! People with much more dire illnesses have them, too! I think it's silly you were turned down, but perhaps they do have a better reason than idiot prejudice? I will hope so, I'd hate to think the organization would be that close-minded.

I don't know what kind of responsibilities a Big Brother/Sister commit to, but in truth, people who suffer from fibro are unreliable. (I hate this effect the most) This illness is NOT consistent.

It doesn't make you a bad person it just means the Big people are serious about providing stability for these young people and perhaps have experience with fibromyalgics not showing up when scheduled. Please don't take it personally.

As a parent, I can tell you hundreds of stories about how I let my own kids down time and time again because I was too sick during those given moments. It wasn't my fault but if I'd been in charge of the world, I would have fired me. As it was, I was all my kids had so we muddled through, but it was unduly stressful for them.

I hope you all don't hate me for it, but as a parent, I've always wanted the best for my children. A person with fibromyalgia probably wouldn't be my choice for a Big.

I feel the same as you about volunteering and doing SOMETHING productive in the world. I want to be a worthwhile person. When I have the extra time to offer, I look for the most flexible opportunities I can find with the least commitment.

I'm a master composter and teach composting classes. I co-teach with three other ladies who understand I may not make every class. Two of them suffer from other forms of disability and the third is 87 and somewhat hampered by her age. I cover for them when they're down and I'm not. It's an easy relationship where we can all feel useful without a ton of stress.

I also donate some at-home computer work for a local animal shelter and collect clothing donations from several shops every few months for a battered women's shelter. Another thing I do is play a disaster victim for the local search and rescue unit's training events.

I went to big brothers/big sisters web site and they just talk about a few hours a month.

So I have to disagree with Wish, I think there are times where we all feel good enough to donate a few hours a month. Infact the web site list things as just reading a book, talking or playing a video game. Not like we have to play basketball or soccer etc etc.

I did notice they seem to prefer people of color in their web site or request them more. Who knows, I would think if we are trying to keep the world peaceful and loving, coloring wouldnt matter. I can easily be a big sister to any color child.

I am sure some of the children have disabilites also.

Wish, I am so glad you are able to do all that volunteering and for all those causes and teach also, you are in alot better shape then me or alot of us. Good for you,.

Pford, please keep us informed. I will not donate to them again.

I am so sorry that they turned you down. I would definitely follow up on it as it sounds like discrimination to me. Good luck

Gentle hugs
Andrea