Match Story | From the Pandemic to Today: Big Brother Jamel, Little Brother Logan, and Aunt Kathy Journeying Together

Big Brother Jamel & Little Brother Logan enjoying a Loaves & Fishes cooking class

For Big Brother Jamel, Little Brother Logan, and Aunt Kathy, their Match journey began in July 2020 under some challenging circumstances – the COVID pandemic. Having shifted from all in-person interviews and trainings with Bigs, Littles, and families to Zoom sessions, Big Brothers Big Sisters got creative in working through these important processes, finding ways to host initial Match meetings, and keeping everyone engaged and safe.

Because of safety protocols, “we had to meet outside for our first meeting,” Jamel recalled. “It was a little different than how things are now”, Kathy shared with a chuckle, thinking back on those early visits. Reflecting on that in-person introduction in the park, Logan admitted he “first thought Jamel was a little weird - I still do, actually”, although in all the best ways.

Luckily, the pandemic didn’t stop this trio from forging strong bonds. From participating in a cooking class at Loaves & Fishes to outdoor activities, academic pursuits, and so much more, Jamel and Logan are game to be creative, try new things, and learn together. Jamel shared that one of his favorite memories is going sledding. “I showed Logan my sled that I made out of cardboard and duct tape. He was skeptical at first , but that's one of the best sleds he's ever seen.”

Logan participated in BBBS’ Teen Employment & Financial Literacy Program last year. Jamel shared that Logan “has a job that he takes very seriously. He has a bank account and wants to save up the money to buy a truck in the near future.” Kathy shared that “Logan has had some instances of overspending now that he has a job and money coming in. Finding that balance between spending and saving is the current lesson.” The program has helped Logan “learn about budgeting”, something he “is still working on putting it into practice.”

Describing his Big as “goofy, weird, and nice”, Logan was sure to note that “my relationship with Jamel means a lot to me – having someone to talk to and hang out with. We also get out to different places and do fun things. I really enjoy rock climbing. It's been nice to have the opportunity to do stuff like that!”

 Building trust through consistent communications and being there for one another has allowed this trio to navigate “through some different life stages, like coming out of the pandemic, me entering high school, and working,” according to Logan. Supporting Logan – and Kathy – is a role Jamel takes seriously. “Logan wasn't doing well in school, and he lied to his Aunt about it. Kathy told me, so I made a surprise visit to Logan's house one day after school. I talked to him about how lying was worse than the bad grades. I went into Dad mode even though I don't have kids of my own. School is much better now.” Kathy sees the deep value of their Match. “Logan listens to Jamel. Sometimes Logan can't hear things from me, but having Jamel talk with him about certain things has been helpful.”

Currently, Logan is exploring CATEC as a means of pursuing his academic and career interests. Logan shared that he “still needs a few more requirements. If it doesn't work out for next year, I'm hoping to have everything ready for the year after.” From Kathy’s perspective, “I want him to go there, though. I think it will be good for him.” Jamel is encouraging and guiding Logan throughout the process.

Jamel decided to become a Big because “I wanted to help out. I thought I could be a positive influence.” As for his goals for their Match, he hopes that “Logan is and will be in a better place because of the time we have spent together.” In terms of impacts on his own life, Jamel cites “youthful osmosis; it's nice to act like a kid from time to time.” For others considering volunteering as a Big, "You should do it!”

For families considering pursuing a Match for their child(ren), Kathy thinks they should go for it. “It's a good program. Take advantage of the other opportunities, too, like the financial literacy program and summer employment for teens.”

As they work toward ending the school year on a high note and looking forward to summer, Jamel, Logan, and Kathy are sure to continue growing, learning, and adventuring together.