Mission: Mentorship – Featuring Big Brother Brian and Little Brother Dylan
When Big Brother Brian arrived in Lincoln on assignment from the U.S. Marines as an ROTC instructor at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, he already knew one thing: he wanted to get involved in the community. Through a fellow ROTC officer, Jordan, also a Big Brother, Brian learned about Big Brothers Big Sisters and the impact mentoring could have. Jordan’s experience, along with his connection to Little Brother Ryden, inspired Brian to take the leap.
On November 14, 2023, Brian was introduced to Little Brother Dylan, and the two were officially matched. Over the past two-plus years, Brian has been a steady, positive presence in Dylan’s life. Together, they attend BBBS-sponsored match activities, explore new restaurants around Lincoln, and work through educational goals—sometimes with Brian lending a hand on homework.
Rae, Dylan’s mother, said: "Brian has been amazing with Dylan since day one of their match-up. With Dylan's ADHD and high energy, Brian has been the perfect match, bringing patience, energy, and real-life experiences from his time as a young boy. Over the years, Dylan has learned many skills from Brian, such as reading the room (social cues), calculating tip percentages when paying for meals, following steps for garden preparation, and learning different board games. The list goes on! Overall, the hands-on experience, being there to process difficult moments as well as supporting during other important life milestones and achievements, will forever leave an imprint on Dylan, and we couldn't be more grateful for such an amazing mentor and friend."
The match has also taken full advantage of BBBS community partnerships, frequently attending skate school through BBBS's collaboration with The Bay. These experiences have helped Dylan build confidence, try new things, and develop essential life skills.
Beyond their one-to-one time, Brian and Dylan have supported BBBS by promoting its mission, including sharing their story through a podcast that highlighted the power of mentoring and the impact of their relationship.
On Thursday, February 5, Brian reached a significant milestone of his own when he was promoted to the rank of Major in the U.S. Marines. The promotion ceremony was held on Memorial Field on the UNL campus, with family and friends traveling from New Jersey, Louisiana, and Idaho to celebrate the achievement.
Rae had this to say about Brian’s promotion ceremony: “One memorable moment was the opportunity Dylan was given to watch Brian receive his military promotion, and what an honor it was to be front and center, seeing Brian receive such an amazing reward! Seeing Dylan cheer on Brian, shouting out, ‘Go Brian!’ was another reminder of the bond and connection the two have made over the years and the positive impact Brian has had on Dylan's life."
Program Manager and their Match Support Specialist, Laura, was also honored to attend the ceremony alongside Little Brother Dylan and his mother, Rae. Being present for this moment was a meaningful way for BBBS to support Brian—just as he has consistently supported Dylan and the organization over the past two-plus years.
Their relationship is a great reminder of the impact mentorship can have when you truly show up for one another.
Interested in becoming a mentor yourself? Join BBBS today and make a BIG impact on local youth.
