A brief interview with one of our remarkable Big Brothers, Ivan Evelyn.
I can honestly say I get as much out of the Big Brother program as Nathan does. I learn new things every time I am with him just as much as he learns new things when he is with me. One of the biggest inspirations is being able to see Nathan evolve and grow into a thoughtful, intelligent, caring young man with wonderful morals and values who loves his mother and adores his little sister. Being involved in the program reminds me that you are never too old to learn new things, discover new joys, laugh out loud at something silly or let your inner child out!
Nathan and I really enjoy going to sporting events and watching movies during the winter and riding bikes and swimming during the summer. Some of my favourite memories with Nathan are the times when he’s willing to go out on a limb to experience something for the first time and the look of pure joy on his face as I watch him discover how much he enjoys it. The two examples that come to mind are the first time he watched a Rugby 7s game, and when he ate his first Japadog hotdog.
I come from a family of teachers and educators so from an early age I’ve always had an interest in teaching or mentoring youth in some capacity. I am now in my 4th year with Nathan (wow, time flies!). As cliché as it sounds, my greatest mentors were my parents and my grade school teachers. I think I would have been a shadow of the person I am today if I didn’t have those mentors.
Knowing that there are children in Greater Vancouver who are waiting upwards of 2-3 years for a Big Brother, it makes me wish that I could convince everyone I know to volunteer in some way, shape or form.
Does this sound like something up your alley?
Learn more here: https://www.bigbrothersvancouver.com/our-programs/big-brothers/