OUR STORY
BIG BROTHER JOHN & LITTLE BROTHER VINNY This match story began more than 40 years ago, when John’s father died when he was 7 years old. Seeking a father figure for John, his mother found him a mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters. He was matched with Jim, and to this day, talks about the bond they formed and his fond memories of their relationship. John recognized the powerful impact of mentoring, and as an adult, he decided to provide a similar experience to a young boy who also lost his father. In 2014, John was matched with 8-year-old Vinny, whose father had passed away several years beforehand. Vinny’s mom was looking for what John’s mother had sought for her young son—a male role model who would offer friendship, support, and guidance. From the beginning, the relationship between John and Vinny was relaxed and easygoing. They quickly felt a bond over their similar past and they also realized that their families are originally from the same village in Italy! While John and Vinny do a lot of ordinary things together—playing basketball at the YMCA, visiting a local park, and attending BBBS events—their relationship is anything but ordinary. A significant loss in their past brought them together, but their focus is on the future. Someday, Vinny hopes to pay it forward. Youth in our community, especially young boys, need strong mentors like John. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or know a positive male role model, please visit www.bbbspgh.org/beabig.