Real Stories - Ed and Robert

Big Brother Ed helped bring out the best in Robert.

The audience of 30 business people was daunting, but Little Brother Robert had a message he was intent on delivering. Robert was there to represent Big Brothers Big Sisters at a panel discussion, a big step for a kid who admits he is shy.

“I was nervous, but I wanted to stand up and talk about my Big Brother, to let other people know that he is great,” Robert said. 

For two years, Robert met weekly with his Big Brother, Ed, at Bethune Academy, a Big Brothers Big Sisters site-based mentoring location that draws many volunteers from Harley-Davidson, Inc. Ed then transitioned into community-based mentoring, regularly meeting with Robert on weekends. The two have bonded over a love of sports and competition.

“Robert was very shy initially, but he simply blossoms whenever there is a sport-related activity,” Ed said. It isn’t all about sports, he added. “We always start our meetings with a chat about school.”

The mere mention of Ed’s name brings a smile to Robert’s face. “I can’t imagine not having Ed in my life. When I grow up I want to be like Ed.”

Recently Robert’s aunt confided to Ed “you’re the best thing that happened to Robert. Thank you for all that you do.”