Everybody needs a role model. Everybody needs someone to bounce ideas off of. Everyone needs someone in their corner.

Little Brother Oliver has got Big Brother Kyle. It's an evolving symbiotic relationship that is rooted in mutual respect, empathy and curiosity.

"I wanted to volunteer my time in some way, and Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) seemed like a positive way to do so," said Kyle. "As our relationship has grown, Oliver seems to respect me more and more and listen to what I have to say. He definitely seems to trust me more as he has become more comfortable. I'm trying to teach Oliver that things won't always go his way, and that's OK."

In March of 2024, Kyle and Oliver were matched by the Lancaster County branch of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central PA. Included in the match process was an in-depth enrollment process - an interview and staff assessment that identified factors that will support a lasting relationship.

Before meeting Oliver, Kyle underwent a background check and received training.

Oliver is a resident of Lititz.

"The first meet was at Oliver's house with his mom and the match support specialist to introduce everyone involved," said Kyle. "At the first meeting, Oliver was pretty quiet and shy, which was to be expected."

On average, Kyle and Oliver get together about twice a month. Their time spent together includes playing with Legos at Oliver's house, going bowling, playing tennis and pickleball and attending after-school functions.

Kyle has also attended Scouting America meetings with Oliver and has helped him construct a pinewood derby car.

"Oliver is overall a very kind, caring 9-year-old," said Kyle. "He has his moments, as any child does. He likes to learn and enjoys school and being with friends and his teacher.

"What I've learned from Oliver is how difficult it can be to be a young child without an adult male figure in their life," continued Kyle. "I've always had two present parents and never experienced what he has. I have also learned how important the time I spend with him is to him. My childhood was very good; both parents were present and were both positive role models who definitely shaped me into the person I am today."

The need is great. Right now, there are more Little Brothers and Little Sisters in Lancaster County than there are Big Brothers and Big Sisters.

Currently in Lancaster County, 15 adults have been matched with kids through the Big Brothers/Little Brothers and the Big Sisters/Little Sisters programs. There are 13 male children waiting to be matched with Big Brothers locally.

"A small amount of volunteer time can go a long way in not just helping to better someone's childhood today," said Kyle, "but potentially positively impacting who they become as a young adult and for the rest of their life."

"Our goal is to create developmentally appropriate matches that align with the needs of the Little and the strengths of the Big, setting the foundation for a positive, impactful connection," said Katie Gleason, vice president of programs for Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central PA.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central PA is currently seeking to establish a physical office in Lancaster County. The organization already operates offices in Harrisburg, Lebanon, York and Carlisle.

"After a match is established, BBBS match support staff provide ongoing, relationship-focused support," said Gleason. "Staff check in regularly with both the Big and Little, as well as the parent or guardian, to strengthen the relationship, ensure child safety, offer guidance and support goal setting and youth development. This consistent oversight helps matches navigate challenges, celebrate successes and build a meaningful, lasting bond."

For additional information, go to http://www.bbbsscpa.org.