Lacy has been part of our Community-Based Mentoring program since 2019, and today, both of her children are matched with Bigs. During National Mentoring Month, we’re sharing a perspective we don’t always get to hear: how mentorship doesn’t just shape a young person’s life, but can also uplift and support the parents and guardians alongside them. Here’s Lacy’s story, and what her family’s BBBS experience has meant along the way.
Why did you choose to enroll your children?
I am a 100% solo mom with no outside support from family. I understand how important it is for children, especially boys, to have access to positive male role models.
My own father was a Little Brother in BBBS growing up in Omaha. One of my favorite childhood memories is meeting my dad’s “Big” for brunch. His Big owned a ranch, and I remember listening to them share stories about their time together and the experiences they had. That connection clearly made a lasting impact on my dad, and it stayed with me long after.
Because of this experience, I’ve always known how powerful this program can be. I reached out to BBBS multiple times before my oldest son was even eligible because I knew how important this opportunity would be for him. I did the same for my youngest as soon as he became eligible. I want my boys to have the same chance to build a meaningful, positive relationship with a mentor, one that can shape their confidence, perspective, and future, just as it did for my father.
How has BBBS supported your family?
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands has been a steady, positive presence in our lives. They didn’t just match my children with a mentor—they took the time to truly understand our family, our needs, and our goals. From the beginning, we felt supported and heard.
How was the process of enrolling your children?
The enrollment process was painless. I answered some questions that really helped them fit each of my boys with the best match for them. Waiting for my youngest's match was more difficult than the entire enrollment process, but only because he was so excited. He had seen how much fun his brother was having and asked me almost daily if we “got the call.”
How has your Match Support Specialist supported you and your family?
Our Match Support Specialists have been very supportive and responsive. They check in regularly, offer guidance when needed, and make sure both my children and our family feel supported throughout the match. I have always felt like they were only a call or text away if I needed to reach out.
What would you tell other parents/guardians who may be interested in enrolling their children?
Do it! There are so many fun and meaningful activities my boys have experienced that I know they wouldn’t have had the opportunity to experience without Big Brothers Big Sisters and their mentors.
How have your children been impacted by having a mentor?
Having a mentor has helped my boys build confidence, try new things, and feel supported by another trusted adult. The consistency and encouragement have had a very positive impact on their growth and self-esteem. Their Bigs show up at my boys’ sporting events, school, and other events to show their support. I can see my kids looking for their Bigs at events, and it makes me so happy that they have that bond. My boys are always asking, “When do I see (Big) next?” or “Oh, maybe I can do (activity) with (Big) next time!” They are always looking forward to the next time with their mentor.
I also want to add how much I appreciate the opportunities Big Brothers Big Sisters provides for entire families, not just the matches. They offer tickets to so many incredible events—courtside basketball games, baseball games, suite boxes, hockey and volleyball games, concerts, museum tours, plays, and more (Lunch with Kenny Bell!). These are experiences I could never afford for all of us to attend, especially once the processing fees are added. I love that my boys get to experience these things, but I especially love it when I get to build those memories with them, too.
Become a Mentor or Enroll Your Child Today!
