Little Brother Drew and Big Brother Jeff Longman recently celebrated their three-year match anniversary this month. Throughout their match, Drew and Jeff have discovered they share many things in common- they are both middle children, enjoy the outdoors and fishing. Another similarity they share is that Jeff was a Little Brother, too.
Little Brother Drew and Big Brother Jeff Longman recently celebrated their three-year match anniversary this month. Throughout their match, Drew and Jeff have discovered they share many things in common- they are both middle children, enjoy the outdoors and fishing. Another similarity they share is that Jeff was a Little Brother, too.
“I had a Big Brother and Big Sister through Big Brothers Big Sisters when I grew up. I remember them being positive adults in my life, and I felt it was my turn to do that for someone else,” Jeff said.
Together, Drew and Jeff have been able to go on many adventures. They have attended football and hockey games, raced remote control cars, go-karted, visited the Science Center, made pizzas, shopped for a holiday family and played with animals, especially with Drew’s bearded dragon and three turtles. Jeff also enjoys watching Drew’s football, basketball and baseball games. Fishing is one of their all-time favorite activities.
“We could fish all day. Fishing is a lifelong activity that he can enjoy forever. He really has an appreciation for nature and the outdoors,” Jeff said.
Quiet and naturally shy, Jeff has seen Drew, age 13, slowly come out of his shell. “There is nothing wrong with being quiet, but you also have to know when and how to speak up. When he is comfortable, he talks more and gets excited,” Jeff said.
They talk about all sorts of things from school to getting along with Drew’s sisters. Drew excels in school and starts middle school in August. “That can be a tricky time for a young guy. I struggled though middle school so I hope I can be there for him if anything comes up,” Jeff explained.
When Jeff became a Big, it was important for his Little to know that he was going to be part of his life for a long time.
“I wanted the child to know that I wasn’t going to leave anytime soon,” Jeff said, “I really just wanted to hang out and after gaining their trust over time, become a positive adult influence in someone’s life. The rewarding part is easy—sharing the experiences with your Little.”
Jeff encourages others to get involved and make a difference. “…think about who were the adults that made a positive influence in their life? What was memorable about those adults? I think if you answer those questions and want to give your time and effort to have this same effect on a child, then Big Brothers Big Sisters is the perfect opportunity,” Jeff said.
Are you interested in becoming a Big? Please complete this Community-Based Volunteer Inquiry Form or contact Volunteer Enrollment Coordinator Shayna Bell at [email protected] for more information.