Posted on Apr 30, 2016 in
COLUMNS,
FEATURES
Big Brother Tony Griffin with his Little Brother Trenton.
By Joan Frances –
Children are the future of this world. For some of these children, life can be arduous. They can be easily swayed into trying drugs or committing crimes. Juveniles who file through the court system need guidance in order to get back on track. They need someone who will mentor them and be a friend on whom they can depend.
For these children and for others facing difficulty, Fort Bend County has a non-profit organization called Big Brothers Big Sisters. Their mission statement reads, “To provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one mentoring relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.” This year, Big Brothers Big Sisters is expected to serve over 140 at-risk youth in Fort Bend County with mentors to help change their lives for the better, forever. One perfect match is Big Brother Tony Griffin and his Little Brother Trenton.
Little Brother Trenton enjoys spending time outdoors.
Since early May 2015, Tony and Trenton have worked hard to build the foundation for friendship, trust and camaraderie. Trenton lost his first mentor when his Big Brother moved away. He was very nervous to be matched again, but Tony put him at ease right away. Trenton is in the eighth grade and has an undying fascination of animals, the outdoors, music and video games. Conveniently, Tony enjoys these things too.
Tony and Trenton’s Match Support Specialist Ja’Mese explained, “Tony and Trenton have a bond over topics not too many teenage boys seem to be interested in nowadays – nature, music and cooking. Tony does a good job incorporating what Trenton wants to do in the future into the outings. Tony is also very open to suggestions and is really easy going. It’s a great match.”
Tony and Trenton have had many outdoor experiences together. They have witnessed drum circles, attended local concerts and witnessed a water balloon fight. Trenton plays the trombone, and Tony attends the band concerts and recitals at his school. While all of this appears to be for Trenton, Tony has gained a new perception on education, friendship and acceptance. He has also learned to appreciate nature and music in a different perspective. Tony said, “There’s so much out there for Bigs and Littles to do together. It’s a wonder as to why more people don’t become Bigs. I heard about it through friends at church and thought to myself, ‘I’ve got to try this!’”
For Trenton, Tony helps to affirm that what he enjoys and wants to do is good. Tony is a positive support for Trenton, and they both learn from their adventures together. Tony is a compassionate and benevolent individual, a visionary who realizes helping someone can make this world a better place to live. Through the continued support of Big Brothers
Big Sisters, the future of this world is looking up, one child
at a time.
