In early 2006 I began toying with the idea of becoming a mentor when I was presented the opportunity to join Big Brothers & Big Sisters of South Hampton Roads. Immediately, I knew that I wanted to be a part of the program which had already changed so many children’s lives and that had become such a staple in the community.

Initially, when I joined BBBS of South Hampton Roads, I decided that my primary purpose would be to help children in need, as well as make a difference in my community. I began doing such when I started mentoring al little girl who was the 6th of 10 children in a large family household. With four of them living the same foster mother who adopted them a year ago, I knew this little girl was in need of special attention. Unfortunately, in 2008 when the program closed down due to lack of funding, I was transitioned to TeamUp, which allowed me to continue my mentorship of her, and become a stable role model in her life. In doing so, I have begun a relationship filled with one-on-one support, encouragement, and quality time.

In the time that I have spent with her, I have tried my best be always be there for her. In addition, I have grown to deeply enjoy helping her to experience new and exciting things, improve her grades, and become an overall better person. In a few weeks, she will be 11 years old and I can truly see a change in her self confidence which has grown by leaps and bounds with the past 3 ½ years. I can’t wait to see what happens next!

For more information on how to join TeamUp, visit their website at www.theupcenter.org/