I first looked into becoming a mentor in 2007, because I felt like I was missing something in my life. I was happy, always having fun and traveling all over the world, but still, something was missing. I wasn’t sure that becoming a mentor would fill the void, but it seemed like a great program in which to get involved in. I could give back. I could be a positive influence in the life of a kid who maybe was not as fortunate or blessed as I have been. Back then, I didn’t know just how much I would get out of becoming a mentor.

Admittedly, I was a little hesitant to commit at first. I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to make the time to participate fully, but I quickly learned that having an impact required far less time than I thought it would. Being a mentor is not as time consuming as I thought it would be. It’s a matter of being a friend to your little brother or sister. That might mean taking them out to a movie or a ball game every so often, but more often than that, it’s simply a matter of being there — answering a phone call, giving advice, providing words of encouragement. It truly doesn’t take much to have a life-long impact.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is a great program for anyone looking to make a difference in a kid’s life. More than that, though, the program works both ways. At least, it has for me. By learning to put others first and investing in the life of my little brother, I have become a happier person. I will continue to be involved in the program for years to come, and I hope that others will consider making a change in a littles life also.