Almuni Week - former Big Brother Dan O’Brien

It’s National Mentoring Month!  And as part of that celebration, this week is Alumni Week – a week to spotlight some of the people who have volunteered with us through the years.

We start Alumni Week out honoring a former Match/Big of the Year…thank you, Dan O’Brien!  Dan was matched twice actually (LB Rick and LB Julio).  If you are wondering whether or not Dan talks to his former Littles, the answer is YES.  Both of his Littles attended Dan’s wedding, and their relationships continue today.

Dan O’Brien (center) with his former Littles Julio (left) and Rick (right)

Asked about his experience, Dan says "When you first become a Big Brother, you are inclined to want to make each experience with your Little something very special, life changing, if you will. The truth of the matter is that they are simply looking for companionship, someone to spend time with. A walk around the mall, a drive in the countryside, hanging out on the front porch just talking. These simple things are what make the relationship a successful one, learning about each other, developing trust.”  Dan says the old adage is true…it’s not the destination, it’s the journey.  “Don’t focus on the end result,” he says, “just share time together and the memories, the inspiration, the love will come to you both before you know it.”

Former Little Brother Julio remembers how reliable Dan was; how we would always be there: “If Dan said he was going to pick me up at 5 on a Tuesday he always showed up.  Dan always shows up. To me as a young boy that was huge because I’ve never had any male figures that would show up for me when they said they would.”  Julio said that he had many firsts with Dan:  first to show him how to fish; first to show him what family is supposed to look like; first to show him how a real positive male role model can change a young man’s life forever.

Julio added, “Dan had a huge impact in my life and I can honestly tell you that he’s one of the main reason I am who I am today.”  Julio says Dan is “someone I with pleasure and lover call my BIG BROTHER!”