Jacob laughs as he thinks back on why he became a Big Brother. A recent college graduate, he was looking for a way to give back to the community. “I didn’t know anyone who was a Big, but it seemed fun and easy to do.” Seven years later, he says, “It’s the best thing I’ve ever done. He makes it easy.”
Early into their match, Jacob and his Little Brother, Collin, stumbled on the Ostrich Festival held every year in Chandler. Collin was about 7 or 8, and had so much fun playing games, riding the swinging chairs, and going on his first rollercoaster. The pair have similar personalities, and enjoy just joking around with each other, or checking out thrift stores.
Becoming a Big changed Jacob in more ways than one. “I’ve learned I’m still a kid at heart.” The pair usually meets on Sundays, a day once reserved as a “lazy day” for Jacob. Now, he gets up. The duo have fun and laugh constantly. Being a Big has made Jacob more creative and more active. The pair know they’ll be matched until Collin graduates and ages out at 18, and will continue to be lifelong friends after.
“It’s the best thing I’ve ever done. It really is effortless. It’s like hanging out with my best friend.”