Big Brother Andy was matched with Little Brother Aaron in November 2007. When asked why he became a Big Brother Andy explained, “My life has not been “the path of least resistance”. I felt that my experiences and the solid foundation of love, trust, family, and friendship that got me through some hard times, could be used to empathize with a Little Brother’s situation or as a guide book for my Little to avoid obstacles or at least, offer the best methods to deal with them.”

During their almost two years together this match, like most, have been busy attending sporting events, bowling, seeing movies and going to dinner. However beyond “just activities”, Big Brother Andy has also made his Little Brother part of his life. Aaron attends his softball games, is included in Andy’s family dinner nights at his parent’s home and has even helped Andy shop for Christmas gifts. Additionally, Big Brother Andy is also getting Aaron ready for a major milestone. The two have been studying the driver’s manual so that Little Brother Aaron is ready for his permit test when he turns 16 next month! When reflecting on the last few years, Big Brother Andy shared, “Most of our memories are from the time talking, just on the way to or from something we are doing together. We couldn’t tell you who won the Bisons game, but we both can distinctly remember a conversation that we had at the game.”

Big Brother Andy has been talking about the program and trying to recruit much needed Big Brothers since the day he started volunteering. He would tell anyone considering this as a volunteer opportunity, “It is a great way to share your gifts, talents, expertise, etc, with someone who could very well benefit from it. You don’t need to be some sort of hero to get involved and make a difference in a child’s life. A good sense of humor, a listening ear, and a willingness to assist, are all it takes. I urge you to take part, if you think you have something to offer to the program, and to another person. And I’d be willing to bet that you’re surprised at the “return on investment” that you get.”