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Brian has been a volunteer with AACY for less than a year; however, his impact on the organization and the life of his mentee, Tyler, has been outstanding.
Brian, who splits his time between South Florida and the Northeast, wanted to make sure that the time he spent with his mentee would be beneficial, even through the distance in miles at times during the year.
Tyler and Brian started their mentoring relationship in early February 2023. Typically, they do some activity and go for a meal right after on a school day. AACY suggests a minimum of 4 hours of interaction a month, but they would see each other 1-2 times a week. Their activities have included playing miniature golf, shooting pool, basketball, a 2-hour local boat tour, swim lessons, pinball/video games, bowling, and the local science museum, most of which were firsts for Tyler. Brian invited one of his younger brothers for several of the activities when they went out on a weekend day. Tyler’s mom included Brian in her recent birthday celebration as well.
Their visits were two times a week for eight weeks once Brian was able to get a swim voucher for Tyler, age 12 then, to get lessons. He now can swim the length of the pool; before, he was a non-swimmer. After Brian learned he had no bike, AACY arranged a donation of one from the Elks Club, so Tyler now rides his bike to middle school. Brian was also able to get a scholarship for a week of overnight camp for both Tyler and his brother this Summer, and AACY arranged the boys’ transportation.
Even with Brian away for the summer months, he keeps in touch with Tyler, as they already have a wonderful established relationship. Tyler has told others that he has someone to talk to about various things due to AACY matching the pair. His mom has stated that he very much enjoys the relationship.
According to Brian, “Tyler’s a nice young man with great potential to do many good things in his life. I enjoy giving Tyler (and sometimes his brother) exposure to places, activities, and experiences that my two sons had. Seeing his and his brother’s face light up when they experience something new gives me satisfaction that the time and dollars I’ve spent have a good and direct impact on making their lives richer. Tyler shares his confidences, frustrations, and ambitions with me, which I take as a compliment.”
Beyond mentoring, Brian has also donated his talents in the legal field as a speaker for AACY’s Career Series, in which students have virtual sessions with volunteers to learn about their professions.
We are very lucky to have Brian as an extraordinary volunteer, advocate, and supporter.
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