Phase Three

As you are aware, the state of Illinois, with the exception of Chicago, moved into Phase 3 of Governor Pritzker’s Restore Illinois plan on May 29th. Presently, Chicago is set to move into Phase 3 on June 3rd. In Phase 3, all gatherings of 10 people or fewer are allowed with this limit subject to change based on latest data & guidance. 

In light of this change, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago is allowing matches in both Illinois and Indiana to resume match outings on June 15th upon receipt of a completed electronic waiver from both Big and Parent. Please find the electronic waiver linked at the bottom of this document.

Resuming in-person outings is at the discretion of each match and its participants. You may choose to maintain your virtual relationship with your Little and resume in-person outings once you, your Little, and their parent/guardian are comfortable.

If any party in the match relationship is at heightened risk from the Coronavirus, you should not meet in person at this time. This may also include family members, partners, or roommates. Heightened risk factors include advanced age, respiratory illness, diabetes and immune system suppression, among many others. Refer to the CDC for further guidance.

We recognize these circumstances change daily, especially in light of present events, and may need to change based on city and state regulations. We plan to keep you informed regarding any changes via email. Please follow the most recent communication and reach out to your Match Support Specialist with any questions.

Communicating about COVID-19 & Risk Factors in your Match

·         Each person in the match must assess their health directly before each outing and discuss with each other to determine if the outing should occur. 

o    Feeling achy? Fever or chills? Fatigued? Cough or tightness in chest? Unusual digestive issues? Unknown rash? 

o    If any of these are true, do not proceed with an in-person outing and instead opt for a virtual outing.

·         Share with your match if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 or had exposure to a large number of people. 

o    We need to be open and honest with each other so we can protect one another and work together to make the best informed decision about an outing.

·         Bigs should be clear on planned activities when communicating with parents/guardians, and parents/guardians should communicate any restrictions they require and give specific approval to the outing. 

·         When together in-person with your Little, remind each other about rules for the day. 

o    How will we help keep each other healthy? There are many logistics to think through. Make a plan and discuss your plan. Check-in throughout your outing.

Protocol for In-Person Outings

·         All match parties must wear a mask at all times during outings. 

o    Bigs, we recommend reminding Little’s parent/guardian to send their child on the outing with a face mask, and have an extra with you in case your Little doesn’t have one or they are unable to find their own. 

o    Here you can find information on mask hygiene and cleaning masks should you lend one to your Little. 

·         Wash and sanitize hands frequently.

·         Maintain at least 6 feet of distance.

·         Riding in the car together can be a challenge with social distancing. You may choose to avoid it all together. If you do choose to transport your Little, follow these guidelines:

o    Big and Little must wear masks at all times.

o    Consider having windows down or keeping the ride short.

o    Little should sit in the backseat. 

o    Use hand sanitizer directly before the car ride and directly after to help reduce germs in your car. 

o    Big should sanitize high touch areas in their car before and after outing.

Recommended Match Activities

Outdoor activities are best - view the below list for ideas. Be mindful of the time of your outing - morning activities will help beat the heat and the crowds. 

·         Roller blade, bike, or skateboard 

·         Go on a self guided architecture tour

·         Explore the art murals in Pilsen

·         Visit a nature preserve

·         Make thank you cards for essential workers

·         Walk around a neighborhood neither of you have explored before

·         Go on a scavenger hunt

·         Try and identify various flowers, plants, and trees

·         Play catch, tennis, frisbee, or volleyball (contact sports are not permitted at this time)

·         Go fishing

·         Try some science experiments (mentos and diet coke, make a volcano or slime)

·         Make a time capsule and bury it in your yard

·         Play outdoor games like hopscotch, “I spy”, or four square

·         Chalk the sidewalk with encouraging words or fun pictures

·         Paint rocks, and place them around town

·         Play cards or a board game 

·         Teach your Little how to change a tire

·         Pick up litter to help clean up your neighborhood 

·         Tie-dye a t-shirt or other items! (look up ice dying for a new way of tie-dying)

·         Walk your or your Little’s dog with your Little- this can teach them responsibility 

COVID-19 Match Waiver

To resume outings, both parent and volunteer must submit a waiver. To submit the waiver, please follow the link below:

Bigs: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GFKL8QP

Parents: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GNSFRPR

Questions about your match’s waiver status? Contact Anna Stolz at Stolz@bbbschgo.org.

We thank you for your continued commitment to both BBBSMC and your LIttle. We encourage you to reach out to your Match Support Specialist if you have any questions or would like to discuss resuming outings safely.