BRYCE: IN-SCHOOL MENTOR
What inspired you to become a volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Windsor Essex?
What inspired me to become a volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Windsor Essex was my father who had told me about the impact that the organization had on his development as a little brother. It affected him to such a degree, he continues to maintain the same foundation and morals that were taught to him by his big brother at the time. That being said, this volunteer venture was always something that I wanted to explore to discover if I can make a significant impact in my community, especially with young people.
What are some of your favourite activities to do with your Mentee/Little?
Kaleb and I really enjoyed exploring our artistic side. In the beginning of our match, we creatively drew, painted, and complete small art projects. In our last year, we even completed a a long-term sculpture project which included sculpting polymer clay to our desired art form, and then we painted and sealed the hardened clay to finished. Otherwise, we loved to play card games and video games when I had a chance to bring in my PS5 or Nintendo Switch.
What is one memory with your Mentee/Little that still makes you smile?
One memory that still makes me smile was when my mentee and I were playing football out in the school courtyard. We continued to throw the football to each other and talk about our day to day up until I accidentally threw the ball in an awkward direction. Kaleb then yelled out for me to catch the ball but exaggerated the awkward throw, making us both laugh out loud. We then continued to throw the football is weird ways as we laughed.
The simplicity and carefree nature of this memory always comes to mind when I think of our match for some reason. It makes me think about how as people, we often forget to appreciate the little things; that is why the memory still makes me smile.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about becoming a mentor with BBBSWE?
I would advise them to “rip it”. To explain, far too often have I passed up on opportunities in the community because I had second guessed my own ability. Now in my late twenties, I have adopted the “rip it” motto to propel myself towards positive change. And when thinking about what advice I would give someone thinking about becoming a mentor with BBBSWE, I would say to simply take the leap or to “rip it”.
The lessons and growth that I have been most fortunate to receive are invaluable because I took a chance to volunteer. I could only hope that I could promote the program to such a degree to where people can truly grasp not only the impact that this program has on young people’s lives, but the impact it has on volunteers themselves.
