Why We Do It:
Potential... Activated!

Rather than re-edit this incredible story, I want you to hear it straight from two people closest to the action; Heather Mills, one of our Match Coordinators, and Rob, a now three-time Big Brother. It's the story of Kevin. - Jeff Newland, Exec. Dir.

From Heather: Kevin is a 12 year old boy and a perfect example of "disconnected," but not "at risk" per say. His family is wonderful, yet overworked, distant from any social activities, and under-equipped to help Kevin with school or push him to reach his potential. He is a wallflower at school, though his teachers see his potential. The School liaison BEGGED to have him matched with Rob – a two-time former Big Brother and well respected member of the community.

Once matched a few months ago, Rob quickly learned that Kevin’s three favorite things in the world are racing, 'competing at anything' and fishing. Yet, he had never been fishing before Rob took him. Now it’s about the only thing he wants to do, rain or shine. He is fast to call and set up meetings with Rob, and also excited to call me after EVERY time to tell me how much fun he had with his Big Brother, Rob.

Kevin also dreams of being a NASCAR driver. Though he watches all the races he can, he had never "raced." So, Rob took him to Keuka Karts to do some go-carting for fun. But for Kevin this might has well have been the real thing - and his business-like approach showed the importance that this moment had for him – another moment first shared with his Big Brother.

Rob and Kevin have become fast, easy friends who rarely spend a week apart. Oh! and Kevin also loves math and science so Rob’s work (research statistician) fascinates him, too.

From Big Brother Rob: Kevin shows me how a boy with an intact family, no serious behavior problems and who does well in school can still be socially isolated. He lives in a remote area with limited opportunity for recreational and social activities.

Early in our match, he was at first uninterested to go to the open car show in our area but agreed to go. Turns out, he loved the cars - especially late model Corvettes. He brought a camera and the following week gave me a photo album with the pictures he took and a thank you note. Weeks later we changed the alternator in my 1973 MGB. It was clear to both of us that the second pair of hands was critical.

Kevin has shown incredible enthusiasm for every activity we’ve undertaken and he clearly enjoys having a friend who will try things that are consistent with his interests. He is my third Little Brother, but I think we have bonded far faster than either of my other Littles – both great kids who I spent years with as well.

I'm eager to be a part of the wonderful things I see in Kevin's future.