Report on ‘Big’ connection inspires tears for mentor
Trent student and youth forge a strong connection through Big Brothers Big Sisters program
When Haley De Turse signed on to be a mentor, she had no idea how much fun she would have and how heartfelt the connection would be.
Almost four years later, the Trent University student cannot imagine life without her regular visits with her “Little brother” Cooper.
She met Cooper in January 2017 and they hit it off right away. However, she only learned about the impact of their time together when Cooper wrote a school report about what he looked forward to most in his life.
“His answer was seeing me at school on Fridays,” Haley recalls. “I cried when I read that. I truly didn’t realize how quickly you can create a bond with someone, even when it is just seeing them for an hour a week.”
The duo watch ghost-hunting videos and “Brooklyn NineNine,” makes craft projects, perfect their slime recipes and bakes cookies and Rice Krispies treats.
They also enjoyed laser tag and Petes games before the pandemic.
These days, they explore Jackson Park, nearby trails and the Indian River Reptile and Dinosaur Park.
“It was always a goal of mine to volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters,” Haley says. “Having that supportive figure would have been really helpful in my life when I was a kid and I wanted to be that person for someone else.”
Haley often tells others about the power of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.
“The lessons you impart upon children come from the little things that you do together and that really is the importance of friendship,” she says. “Volunteering is focused on giving back without expecting anything in return, yet with Big Brothers Big Sisters you get so much out of the experience. Becoming a Big is one of the best decisions I have ever made.”
She strives to build Cooper’s self-confidence so he will step out of his comfort zone and own up to mistakes when he makes them.
“I try to be a good role model that he can look up to,” Haley says. “You have the chance to impact a child’s life in a positive way; you learn more about yourself.”
She describes the Peterborough Bigs staff as “super encouraging and are really dedicated.”
There are 22 boys and 30 girls waiting for mentors. To meet your match, contact peterborough.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca.