The Chainlink

Big Brothers & Big Sisters (Not OT oddly)

I thought i would share this as I just found out earlier this week. But it's a requirement of Big Brothers/Big Sisters that you show proof of car ownership & Insurance or Proof of membership in a car sharing program (I-go/Zip car etc...). Now this would seem like a great requirement in the boonies some where. But I've been living car free in the city of Chicago for 7 years. And some how I've managed to survive. Including when i was teaching Special Ed. in Wilmette (2 trains and a bus). So i think it's kinda rubbish that they would exclude me (or anyone that doesn't want or need to drive) from helping a kid that deserves it. (Was looking into volunteering to fill the time since I haven't been riding. Guess I won't be doing it with Big Brothers.)

Just felt like sharing.

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Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Tyra on January 25, 2009 at 9:34pm
Gabe, thanks for sharing. This is total weak sauce on BBBS's side. I was going to check out being a Big Sister this week so I am glad you posted this.
Permalink Reply by Vilda on January 25, 2009 at 9:45pm
Weak Sauce is right. ;-) They ruined my Burrito of good intensions! ;-)
Permalink Reply by Robert Beck on January 25, 2009 at 10:17pm
There are plenty of nonprofits in Chicago that need volunteers, mostly helping kids with their homework or playing sports with them. You don't need a car but some do background checks. I suggest you look into a local nonprofit in your area since you do not drive or cannot ride a bike at this moment.
Permalink Reply by Vilda on January 25, 2009 at 10:18pm
Background check is of no consequence and yeah I'm going to keep looking...I just thought this was a lame policy on there part.
Permalink Reply by Vilda on January 26, 2009 at 7:36am
Nope, I'm just gonna go elsewhere.

h3 said:
I've heard that before. You gonna try to do something about it?
Permalink Reply by GabeW (not the other Gabe) on January 26, 2009 at 4:25pm
I'm guessing it's cause they want you to be able to pick up the kid(s) and take them somewhere, but I don't see why public trans and going on rides with the kids isn't a viable alternative. Especially since kids in need are probably more likely to use alternate forms of transportation to a car anyway. Why not help teach them the alternatives? BBBS is missing an opportunity here.
Permalink Reply by Vilda on January 26, 2009 at 4:39pm
I got outta the business of teaching corporations. :-)
Permalink Reply by Vilda on January 26, 2009 at 5:39pm
I'm sure the other Gabe hit it on the head. That they expect you to pick kids up and take them places. And since they are a National organization I'm sure they make a national policy based on lack of public transit in all areas. It's silly but it's just the sort of short sighted view I would expect from a corporation.
Permalink Reply by Vilda on January 26, 2009 at 8:38pm
Aww Howard, You do know the sweet ways to my heart! ;-) I like a good argument with anyone. But i hate arguing with corporations. I prefer to just go elsewhere.

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