Mentoring programs can have a lasting impact on children. ‘Big Brothers, Big Sisters of North Alabama’ is one of those programs. In tonight’s mentoring matters we look at the beginning of a "big" and "little" match.
12 year old DeAndre Mason and Leonard Jefferson met last week.
“I believe we're breaking down the barriers to communication. He's sharing things with me, which is a sign of trust,” said Leonard Jefferson.
They were matched in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. It's a nonprofit organization that matches kids with a positive adult role model called a 'big brother or big sister.' DeAndre says he waited for a year to get paired with a big but is thrilled with the match.
“It was fun to have a big brother. I thought it was really great to have me a big brother,” said DeAndre Mason.
DeAndre's mother signed her son up so he'd have a positive male role model in his life.
“By him having Leonard he can see that there's a better opportunity for him, there's a military life. He doesn't have to be in the military, but it's a better opportunity for him besides the streets or ending up in prison,” said Kim Kelly DeAndre’s mother.
Leonard Jefferson was actually a mentee or 'little' many years ago before becoming a big. Now he hopes to give back by making a positive impact on DeAndre's life.
“What I hope to instill in him is that he can be and do anything he desires and that there should be no road blocks or nay-sayers to stop him from being who he wants to be,” said Jefferson.
Leonard hopes others can get out and volunteer spending a few hours a month with a child.
“I am proud to be something big. I hope others will give back also and make the time for what really matters,” said Jefferson.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Alabama
701 Andrew Jackson Way
Huntsville, AL 35801
Phone: 256-880-2123
Fax: 256-880-2177
General Email Box: info@bbbsna.org
