Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts Celebrates Jay Joshi and Quinn Singer-Torres

MEDFORD, Mass. - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts (BBBSEM) has named Jay Joshi, of Medford, and Quinn Singer-Torres, 15, as one of the agency's 2026 Matches of the Year. Their bond, nearly five years strong, reflects the creativity, patience, and mutual curiosity that can define a truly great mentoring relationship.

Jay came to BBBSEM in 2021, having relocated to Boston and looking for a way to put down roots in a new city. He had been involved in youth mentoring back home in Phoenix, Ariz. and knew firsthand how rewarding it could be. Later that year, he was matched with Singer-Torres, then 10 years old.

Getting started during the pandemic meant early outings had to happen outside or over video, and the years since have brought their share of challenges. When social isolation restrictions were lifted, the two quickly began exploring Boston together in a way neither would have done alone, visiting the New England Aquarium, hitting the beaches, discovering museums, and logging countless miles on the MBTA, which happens to be one of Singer-Torres’ great passions. They also learned quickly that they didn't need to fill every moment with activity or conversation. Within the first year, there grew easy moments of silence between them, a small thing that says a great deal about the kind of trust they built.

"I've really appreciated the opportunity to explore Boston while building a bond with Quinn," says Jay. "While I could've explored the aquarium, beaches, and museums by myself, it wouldn't have been nearly as rewarding. I've learned to view each of these experiences with a newfound perspective and appreciation while seeing them through Quinn’s eyes."

Since the match began, Singer-Torres has grown from a curious 10-year-old into a confident, creative 15-year-old who runs his own YouTube channel, produces videos, sells his own merchandise, and is an accomplished musician. His family enrolled him in BBBSEM in part to ensure he had consistent, individualized support and a trusted adult male presence in his life. Through it all, Jay has shown up, steady, dependable, and genuinely invested in Singer-Torres' world.

"If I never had a Big, I would probably be much less confident speaking to people in public," says Singer-Torres. "Jay and I have spent many of our outings out in public, and those experiences helped me become more comfortable. It's always nice to have an adult in your life, other than your parents, who you can talk to about whatever is going on."

Mentoring remains one of the most effective tools for supporting young people's mental health, academic success, and self-confidence. A national study of 950 youth from eight Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies found that positive mentoring relationships result in stronger decision-making, improved academic outcomes, and more.

"Matches like Jay and Quinn’s remind us that mentoring is never a one-way street," says Mark O'Donnell, President & CEO of BBBSEM. "Jay showed up for Quinn with consistency, curiosity, and genuine care, and in return he gained a perspective on this city and this community that has made him a better person. That kind of mutual growth is what Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts is all about."

With research and proven outcomes at its core, BBBSEM creates matches based on shared interests, geography, and personality, serving as a bridge between communities and partners to address systemic issues like social isolation, education gaps, and equity in opportunity.

In its 77th year, the largest Big Brothers Big Sisters affiliate in New England has created and served more than 25,000 matches and will serve over 4,000 matches this year. For more information, to become a volunteer or to register your children, visit: www.emassbigs.org.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts is an innovative, energetic organization that is making a real difference in the lives of over 4,000 youth annually by providing them with an invested, caring adult mentor in long-term, professionally supported relationships. With research and proven outcomes at its core, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts is working to defend the potential of children facing adversity and ensure every child has the support from caring adults that they need for healthy development and success in life. The organization’s vision is to inspire, engage and transform communities in Eastern Massachusetts by helping youth achieve their full potential, contributing to healthier families, better schools, more confident futures and stronger communities. Throughout its 77 years, the largest Big Brothers Big Sisters affiliate in New England has created and served more than 25,000 youth. For more information about the agency and its mission, visit www.emassbigs.org.

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