Mac came into Conn’s life almost eight years ago after 10-year-old Conn was struggling to deal with his Dad’s death.
Recognising the value a positive male role model can bring to an individual’s growth and development, Mac wanted to do the same for another young person. Seven years later, Mac and Conn are fast friends, and have shared many experiences together, such as walking Mac’s dog Winston, playing football, and watching motor racing.
Mac says “As a BBBS Mentor, I am there to support him and have his back. The analogy the BBBS use, and one that I buy into, is that you are the stake that supports a sapling. You are there for them, they know and feel it.”
It makes Mac really proud to see Conn taking on new tasks, skills or challenges, and how thrilled he is of those achievements. “Seeing his confidence grow and being constantly amazed by what he has to say, or the challenges he has overcome.”
For Mac, the best part of volunteering as a mentor, is knowing that simply by spending time with Conn, he is making a difference. “Your time has real value and just a small amount of commitment can make such a difference. In a society that appears to be moving towards a ‘what’s in it for me’ mentality, the value and satisfaction that you get from giving your time is so meaningful. Your actions will generate additional benefits that resonate well beyond your initial commitment, that you may never be aware of.”
“The added benefit is that you gain immense pleasure from seeing their personal growth and development. Often, we are just chilling, watching motor sport on TV or having a laugh about something. You get to experience the world through their eyes, which is great. You can sleep soundly at night knowing that your small investment of time is making the world a better place.”
Conn’s Mum is tremendously grateful for Mac’s input into Conn’s life and the relationship they have forged together. “Mac and Big Brothers Big Sisters came at the exact right time for Conn and have literally saved his life”.
