From a Common Experience, an Uncommon Friendship

Big Brother Dennis Vaughn grew up without a father in the house. But he was never lacking for a male role model. His uncles looked out for him, kept him out of trouble, made sure he knew that if he needed someone to talk to, they’d always be there for him.

But the connection to mentoring wasn’t made until five years later, when Dennis heard a Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Cleveland representative make a presentation in his church. “Mentors — that’s just what my uncles were for me,” thought Dennis.

Then he thought about whether he could be the kind of guiding force in the life of a young man that his uncles were for him.

Dennis did not have to think long. Soon he was talking to his local Big Brothers Big Sisters office, and not long thereafter he met his Little Brother Maurice, who was eight at the time. They clicked right away, and Dennis discovered that being a Big Brother was simple – and rewarding! Maurice loved Dennis’ big smile and “cool car.” Dennis thought Maurice had a charisma and energy that were “infectious,” and he saw a lot of himself in the young boy. They hit it off immediately as friends, and today, five years later, they’re closer than ever.

Maurice’s mom and grandmother, says Dennis, are “incredible women who have done a wonderful job with him.” But what he was missing was that male role model to look up to, to help him learn how to grow into a man.

That’s the kind of mentoring that Dennis gives Maurice … just like Dennis’ uncles gave to him.

The middle school years can be tough for a young man. Some make bad choices along the way. Maurice’s mother Kandice is certain that, for her boy, having Dennis as a mentor has made all the difference.

“The consistency of their relationship has helped Maurice stay focused in school instead of rebelling and getting into trouble. He continues to be a pleasant, positive, and fun-loving child who excels in all areas of his life.”

Making such a difference for Maurice didn’t take a huge time commitment for Dennis. You can mentor a young person for one hour a week, at a time that’s convenient for you. So don’t think “maybe another time.” There’s a young person out there who needs you now. Volunteer today »