Little Brother Scores 'Big' Through Mentoring Relationship

Little Brother Kenneth likes to run routes. His face lights up and he waves his arms and points when he explains the various patterns he has learned while throwing the football around with his Big Brother Francisco Rivadeyra. Part of the 11-year-old’s enthusiasm can be attributed to his love of the game. A bigger part of Kenneth’s animation and confidence however, can be linked to the care and trusting relationship he has with his Big Brother.

Kenneth and Rivadeyra were matched roughly two years ago through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri. Rivadeyra first heard about the mentoring program as an undergrad at a local university. It wasn’t until a few years later when he found some time in his schedule that he applied to the program, welcoming the opportunity to be a positive influence in a child’s life.

“I didn’t really know what to expect when I interviewed to be a Big Brother,” Rivadeyra reflected recently. “It is amazing—to volunteer. Even if you do something small, you can make a huge difference in someone’s life.”

If you ask Kenneth, the impact Rivadeyra has had on his life has been anything but small. Through a period of school and family ups and downs Rivadeyra has been a consistent, positive support. As a result, Kenneth has made serious strides in areas such as academics, behavior and school attendance.

Kenneth said, “We have a deal.” If Kenneth is successful in school, Rivadeyra helps him celebrate by doing something fun. “He asks me questions and helps me with my work. He asks my teacher if there’s anything I need help with,” Kenneth continued.

While initially the emphasis on academics was often Rivadeyra inspired, the Big Brother was quick to point out that Kenneth is now picking up the importance of school on his own. “He asks me about my school,” Rivadeyra said. Rivadeyra is working on his Master’s at Washington University. The friends sometimes incorporate trips to campus in their twice a month outings. No matter what the activity, the pair enjoy each other’s company.

“He’s a successful person,” Kenneth said, when trying to describe his Big Brother. “And he’s funny and nice.”

Rivadeyra shared equal praise for his Little Brother. “He’s very clever. He is caring and he has noble and genuine feelings.”

Hoping to expose his Little Brother to new things, Rivadeyra is excited about Kenneth’s future.

“I told Francisco that I want to play in the NFL,” Kenneth said. Kenneth said that his Big Brother also encourages him to get a college education. “Maybe I will go to Washington University if they have football.”

As for now, the Little Brother appears content talking about the routes he’ll run the next time he plays catch with his Big Brother. In Kenneth’s mind – that’s the essence of Big Brothers Big Sisters. “It’s all about someone coming out and helping you,” Kenneth concluded.

For more information on how to become a Big Brother or Big Sister, or to get your company or organization involved, contact Vivian Gibson at 314-361-5900 or vgibson@bbbsemo.org. Also be sure to visit Big Brothers Big Sisters at www.bbbsemo.org.