The Cerebral Palsy Big Sibling Program is a community service organization committed to serving Boston-area children with cerebral palsy and their families. We match Harvard students with children recommended to us by the staff at Children's Hospital and Boston public schools, with the hope of establishing long-term, mutually beneficial relationships. We also organize group outings, parties, and other events. The children in our program range from 2-16 years of age, and have a variety of special needs such as motor and sensory impairments.
Big Siblings serve as mentors and friends, making home, school, or hospital visits.
They may help with schoolwork or leisure activities. We make an effort to incorporate the child's family into our relationships, meaning that brothers and sisters are always welcome to join in on activities, and parental involvement is encouraged. Additionally, a group of around 10 volunteers visits the Massachusetts Hospital School in Canton each week. There, they assist with after-school activities like swimming, bowling, and outdoor experience. The CP Big Sibling Program is funded through private donations, Harvard university and Phillips Brooks House grants, and fundraising events.