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Shortly after moving to Barrie, Andy was inspired to get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters. A curling event hosted by BBBS and a booth at his company’s open house introduced him to the program, and he began the process of registering as a mentor. Motivated by the positive role models he had growing up, he saw this as an opportunity to provide the same kind of guidance to the next generation.

Initially, he thought mentorship required a specific personality or skill set. However, through the application process and his first meetings with his mentee, Andy realized the most important qualities are simply showing up, being present, and listening. These small but meaningful actions have made all the difference in building a connection.

The rewards of mentoring are hard to pinpoint to a single moment. For Andy, it’s the growth of a genuine friendship and knowing he’s had a positive impact. Along the way, he’s become more attuned to the significance of small gestures, like remembering details from conversations and revisiting them later. This awareness has also influenced how he interacts with his own family, making him a more attentive listener with his wife and kids.

One lighthearted surprise in his match was discovering his mentee’s love for Taylor Swift. The revelation added a fun dynamic to their relationship and underscored the joy that comes from connecting over shared interests—even unexpected ones.

For those considering becoming a mentor, Andy emphasizes the importance of not overthinking the decision. Children don’t need perfection; they need someone consistent and willing to listen. Being a reliable presence can have a lasting impact, and the effort required is simpler than many might assume.

Andy’s experience with Big Brothers Big Sisters highlights the importance of connection and consistency. His journey shows that being a mentor isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being there, building trust, and making a meaningful difference one moment at a time.