“Igniting Potential: One Volunteer’s Journey to Transform a Child’s Future”
By: Brian Rice
Empowering the Future, One Child at a Time: How Mentorship Through Big Brothers Big Sisters is Changing Lives in the Big Bend
TALLAHASSEE, FL — For many children, growing up in challenging circumstances means facing adversity every day. But for those who join Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend, a brighter future is just around the corner, thanks to the dedication of mentors who are willing to invest their time, energy, and care.
Since its founding in 1995, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend has been an unwavering force in helping children facing adversity by connecting them with adult mentors who provide guidance, support, and encouragement. What began as a small initiative has now blossomed into a vital resource in communities across the Big Bend region, with over 500 successful mentor-mentee relationships formed each year.
However, the need continues to grow. With more children waiting for a mentor, Big Brothers Big Sisters is calling on the community to step up and make a difference.
This story highlights one of the many mentors who have dedicated themselves to the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters, and demonstrates how a single act of kindness can have a ripple effect on the future of a child—and an entire community.
A Life Changed: The Story of Claire and Jordan
Claire Thompson, a local business professional and mother of two, had never considered becoming a mentor until a chance conversation with a colleague opened her eyes to the impact she could have as a “Big.” When she heard about the struggles many local children face and how a single mentor could help guide them to a better future, something clicked.
“I always felt like I had something to give, but I wasn’t sure where I could make the biggest impact,” Claire says. “The more I learned about Big Brothers Big Sisters, the more I realized that mentorship is exactly where my skills could be used.”
In 2020, Claire was paired with 12-year-old Jordan, a bright but introverted boy who had faced numerous challenges in his young life. Raised in a neighborhood where crime and poverty were rampant, Jordan struggled with his confidence and self-esteem. But from the first day they met, Claire made it her mission to support him in every way she could.
Their time together became an avenue for Jordan to find his voice—both literally and figuratively. They spent their weekends visiting local parks, reading together, and discussing his hopes and dreams for the future. It didn’t take long before Jordan began to open up about his fears and his aspirations.
“He told me he wanted to be an engineer, but he wasn’t sure if he could make it,” Claire recalls. “I told him I believed in him, and that no dream was too big if he worked hard. Every time I saw him, I reminded him of that promise.”
Over the course of two years, Jordan’s grades improved, his behavior became more positive, and his outlook on life shifted dramatically. Claire didn’t just help Jordan with schoolwork or act as a role model—she gave him the belief that he was capable of achieving greatness, regardless of the hardships he faced.
“My Big has helped me see that I can do anything if I try hard enough,” says Jordan, now 14. “She’s more than a friend to me. She’s like family.”
A Call to Action: Volunteer Today
Jordan’s story is just one of many that demonstrate the profound impact of mentorship through Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend. Yet, there are still hundreds of children waiting for a mentor—waiting for someone like you to show them the way.
As the region’s need for mentors grows, so too does the organization’s commitment to empowering children and helping them realize their full potential. This is where the community can make a difference.
“We’re actively looking for individuals who are ready to step up and make a lasting difference in the life of a child,” says Sarah Matthews, Program Director at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend. “It’s not just about helping a child with their homework or taking them to a movie. It’s about showing them that there’s someone who believes in them, who is committed to their success, and who will be there for them every step of the way.”
The mentoring model of Big Brothers Big Sisters is built on trust, consistency, and mutual respect. Volunteers, or “Bigs,” are matched with children, or “Littles,” based on shared interests and personalities, ensuring that each relationship has the potential for meaningful, long-term growth. Mentors are fully supported by the organization with training, resources, and guidance throughout the entire process.
But with more children in need, the organization faces the challenge of increasing its volunteer base. In the past year, the waitlist has grown, and there are currently over 150 children waiting for a mentor in the Big Bend area alone.
How You Can Make a Difference
Becoming a mentor doesn’t require special skills or a perfect life—it simply requires the willingness to invest time and care into another person’s future. Big Brothers Big Sisters offers flexible volunteer opportunities that fit into even the busiest of schedules, and all mentors receive thorough training and support. The organization is looking for individuals who can commit to spending as little as 4-6 hours a month with a child, creating a life-changing bond that can transform both lives.
A Future of Endless Possibilities
As Claire’s story demonstrates, the impact of mentorship isn’t just a short-term fix—it’s a long-term investment in the future of a child, their community, and society as a whole. The ripple effect of a positive mentor-mentee relationship can be felt across generations.
“Mentoring is about more than just being a role model,” Claire reflects. “It’s about showing a child that no matter where they come from, they have the potential to achieve whatever they set their mind to. And I truly believe that the more we invest in our youth, the better our community will become.”
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