Grow Something Big – Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region

A mentor is defined as a trusted counselor or guide. A mentor is a resource, an individual that provides guidance based on experience and knowledge, an individual that motivates and establishes trust with a mentee, and a friend. Mentors are essential for success.

In June of 2016, I began volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region as a Big Brother. I decided to volunteer for several reasons, but the main reason was that I personally understood the value and importance of having a mentor. I have been fortunate enough to have had multiple mentors as a child, a teen, a young adult, and now as an adult. I wanted to go from mentee to mentor and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region has provided me with the vehicle to do so.

Back in June of 2016, I was matched with “my little” Anthony. My initial impression was that he was very shy and unsure, which seemed normal. Over the past year, I have learned that Anthony is anything but shy or unsure. He is an intelligent, witty, confident, and extremely kind young man. We went to his first hockey game, played laser tag, went bowling, visited an aquarium, attended two Big Brothers and Big Sisters group outings, and have played numerous arcade games. We began on our first meeting discussing only his favorite foods (chicken fingers and carrots) to now having discussions about the world, the importance of school, and all of his favorite things.

Becoming a big brother has been a great experience and I believe that it will continue to be. Unfortunately, there are several kids that are yet to be matched with a mentor and lack of funding is a major reason for that. Children need mentors and there are volunteers that are available and with additional funding, matches can be made.

I've decided to take part in the 2017 Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital District’s Grow Something Big campaign. I’m attempting to raise $625 in 25 days by being sponsored by 25 people (or more) for $25 (or more). The campaign runs from 6/5/17 – 6/29/17. I will make the first $25 donation on 6/5 and then match 20% (up to $125 total) of the total donations made to my portion of this campaign. If you would like to sponsor me for a day, or even part of a day, it would be greatly appreciated. Please, help Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region Grow Something Big!!

Thank you for your support.

Michael