Big Brother Kenneth and Little Brother Kami
Meet Big Brother Kenneth and Little Brother Kami, who have been matched for almost 2 years now!
They first met in August 2023 through our Community-Based mentoring program and have been jumping at Sky Zone and becoming close friends ever since.
Beginning as Brothers
Kenneth first learned about Big Brothers Big Sisters when his employer hosted a presentation at his workplace. As the BBBS staff member explained mentoring and our different programs to Kenneth and his colleagues, he considered the idea.
It sounded like a fantastic way to make a difference in someone’s life, and it touched on a topic he felt strongly about. Kenneth knew that there were a lot of boys and girls in the world without mentors in their lives, and he realized he could be someone that kids look up to.
“I’ve had a lot of influences from people that were outside of family, and I feel like this is my opportunity to help make a difference in somebody’s life, especially a young man’s life,” said Kenneth.
Kami’s mom first signed up her child for the program, hoping to provide him with a male role model to help him grow. Her son, on the other hand, was just excited to have someone take him to cool places—especially like Sky Zone!
When Kenneth finally met his Little, he was in for quite the shock! He already knew Kami from seeing him at the school wrestling meets that Kenneth’s son was in.
“So, when I met Kami, it was almost like it was fate, like it was something that was meant to be,” said Kenneth. “It was like a perfect match.”
Kami was happy to be matched up with someone “cool” and “funny,” and the two slowly got to know each other. Despite Kami taking time to warm up to Kenneth, this Big showed up consistently and proved that he had his Little’s best interest in mind. This is something that Kami’s mom appreciated seeing, and it helped create the brotherly bond they have today.
Fun Times with Family
Over the years, the two have done a load of fun things together like romping around at Sky Zone, playing basketball at the Y, go-karting, and going out to eat. But there is one memory that sticks out to both of them: Kami meeting Kenneth’s family. Several times now, Kami has joined in on Kenneth’s family gatherings and gotten to meet his Big Brother’s relatives. Kenneth recalls one memorial weekend celebration filled with slip-n’-slide kickball and grilling good food. He was thrilled to see his Little fitting right in with his family, and his family accepting his Little in turn.
“Not only has he become a Little Brother to me, but he’s also been becoming a part of my family,” shared Kenneth. “And just seeing the way that he interacted with my family and how well-mannered he was, how my family accepted him.”
Kami believes his “respectful” and “inspirational” Big Brother has taught him a lot over the years they’ve been matched, including lessons on making everything count and not being scared.
“We’re closer, more comfortable. He’s more easy to talk to. I trust him,” shared Kami. “When we first met, it was kind of awkward ’cause I didn’t know him that well, but now I know him.”
Their close brotherly friendship allows Kami to feel supported through whatever life throws at him. Kami says this is “because he’s always there. He doesn’t judge.”
Next up for these two, Kami would like to take a road trip with his Big Brother. Kenneth is up for anything and is most excited to see his Little grow up.
“I would just say, I’m looking forward to continuing to be a part of that young man’s life and watching him grow, too,” began Kenneth. “Just watching him grow into a successful young man.”
Close Confidants
Kami’s mom has noticed the effect mentorship has had on her son. Through being a consistent presence in her son’s life and not rushing or forcing anything, Kenneth has become a great friend and supporter for Kami.
“He’s breaking out of his shell. He’s able to verbalize some things a little bit better than what he used to,” Kami’s mom said. “His trust in males. I think maybe knowing that he has somebody who is genuine helps him with his behaviors.”
One thing Kami’s mom has been very grateful for is the commitment she sees from her son’s Big, especially in handling her son’s autism. The relationship they have has been wonderful for her to witness.
“I know a lot of people are worried, and they’re like, ‘Oh no, I can’t handle a child with special needs,’ or they’re nervous or scared about it,” she began.
“I just felt like this was a perfect example of a child who had behaviors learning to trust someone and really growing up and having someone in their life.”
Although he was initially nervous to become a mentor, meeting up with Kami is now something Kenneth really looks forward to. Being a mentor has taught him that the smallest of things can mean the most to people.
“Now Kami and I are super close. I feel like he’s opened up to me, and it’s a lot of fun. He’s a blast and a joy to be around,” said Kenneth.
Be Big!
Kami, his mom, and Kenneth all recommend this program to others looking to add another positive relationship to their life.
Although it may seem daunting at first, Kenneth urges others to take the leap and become part of a Little’s support system:
“I would just say this way: it’s great to have a mom and dad and a strong relationship with your parents, but it takes a village. That saying is true. It takes a village. And I believe the more love that a child receives and mentoring, I think it can only better that child’s life.”
Want to learn more about our upcoming recruitment campaign? Click here. Want to know more about our programs and volunteering? Click here.
