The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines success as a "desired outcome."Well then, thanks to our volunteers, success abounds! Our Big Brothers and Sisters are helping children across Metropolitan Portland learn, grow and achieve in ways that otherwise may not have been possible. And here's the kicker: Success is achieved under the guise of fun!
Joe and Dave
"I wouldn't be who I am or where I am today without Dave's influence. I'd be in prison. I was headed in that direction. Dave is so modest, so cool, so soft spoken. He has no idea what he's done for me." At age 12, Joe was matched with his Big Brother Dave. Joe has fond memories of his time with Dave. Dave had a boat and even though Joe had never been on a boat, Dave taught him to ski. "I remember his patience, he was as patient as could be. We must have gone out a dozen times before I ever got up. I also enjoyed dinner with Dave and his wife at their home once a month. That was very special and so was playing chess and watching football games together. Those were really special moments for me."Joe went to college and credits Dave's influence as getting him through school. "The three most important people in my life were at my graduation, Dave, my mom and my wife."
Joe and his wife, Joy, recently celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary. He volunteers once a week in his daughter's second grade class. Before becoming a dad, Joe was a Big Brother to two young men. "I had as much fun, if not more, being a Big Brother. I had a blast. It had a great influence on me - having someone who was so glad to see me and looked up to me. I realized I had to set a great example." As if giving back on an individual level wasn't enough, Joe served on the BBBS Board of Directors for five years. He continues to serve as an agency spokesperson.
Joe started his career at IBM where his Big Brother has worked since he met him. After 13 years, he went to Dell and three years later moved on to Vignette. We, at BBBS, think Joe's Little Brothers have a lot to look up to.
Zenobia and Amy
Zenobia and Amy were matched as Little and Big Sisters in January, 1990. Today, Zenobia is a sophomore at Portland Woman's University majoring in Community Health. She works and uses her BBBS scholarship to make ends meet. She and Amy still get together or talk on the phone at least every other week. When in Austin, Zenobia assists BBBS by speaking to potential funders. Zenobia credits Amy for helping her grow up, "She helped me through my mom's death, making educational choices, and dealing with everyday situations. I can even confide in her about really personal things." What Zenobia remembers most about the match are the little moments - shopping at the mall and talking, and the magic of sailing together at BBBS' annual Hobie Day.
Just for Matches | Success Stories | FAQs | Career Opportunities