Celebrating a Decade of Friendship – Congratulations ERIC & ROD!!!

Rod & Eric

Eric and Rod celebrate 10 years of friendship.  To many of the youth we serve, 10 years is a lifetime. But to one match at Big Brothers Big Sisters, it is the beginning of a lifetime. It’s been ten years since Eric and Rod met for the first time. Rod was seven years old when matched with his Big Brother Eric. Rod is now seventeen and his relationship with his Big is still going strong. Throughout the years Eric has witnessed Rod grow both physically and emotionally. From being shy around strangers and his answers being one word at most, Rod has grown both in stature and in poise. Eric stated proudly that Rod has developed confidence, and a great speaking voice. Eric has helped him apply for jobs, has taught him how to drive, to cook and together they have attended UF football and basketball games.  Now, at 17, Eric says that Rod is bigger than him. “I like it that he doesn’t hurt me when we play touch football and he’s always willing to get together. He adds, “I really liked to see the energy and joy he exhibits when we do things that he has always wanted to do but was never able to do”. Eric has been a part of many milestones in Rod’s life and is always there to encourage him to stay in school, play sports, and think about the future. He is both wonderful and a blessing.”  Rod’s mother, Linda has stated that she couldn’t ask for a better Big Brother.  We are proud to celebrate Eric and Rod and all the matches celebrating their anniversary this month.

Volunteering just a few hours a month with a child can start something amazing. So why not apply to be a Big today. There are kids out there ready to get started. Are you?