1. Check out our website, attend a recruitment party, call us in Aspen at (970) 920-2130 or in Basalt at (970) 927-1001, or stop by our Aspen office, located in the Red Brick, Suite 125, with any questions you may have!
2. Apply. You can apply directly online or download a PDF version of our Big Buddy application. You may mail the application to:
The Buddy Program The Buddy Program
110 E. Hallam St, Suite 125 or PO Box 617
Aspen, CO 81621 Basalt, CO 81621
3. Interview: Once we have received your application, one of the case managers will be calling you to schedule a personal interview.
4. Background Checks: After the interview, The Buddy Program will run four background checks, one that requires you to get fingerprinted, as child safety is our priority. Due to increasing costs of these background checks, the Big Buddy is required to pay $25.00 to cover this expense. We also ask for a color copy of your driver's license, and copies of your auto insurance and a declarations page.
5. References: Your case manager will make three telephone reference calls and ask for three letters of reference. These letters can be mailed or e-mailed to your case manager.
6. Training: All of our Big Buddies are asked to attend a one hour training session before they begin with their Little Buddy. The trainings are very thorough and provide the opportunity to answer any further questions or concerns. Your case manager will send you an e-vite to let you know when and where the training is taking place.
7. Pairing: Once a volunteer has been interviewed, screened, and trained, our case managers will work on pairing them with a Little Buddy. Buddies are paired for interests, age and gender.
8. Have Fun with your new Buddy!
PLEASE NOTE: We currently only serve from Aspen to El Jebel. If you are referring a child from further down valley, please contact YouthZone.
As a member of The Buddy Program, you and your Little Buddy get discounts at various stores and restaurants around the Roaring Fork Valley. Click here for our list of discounts.
