Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana (BBBSCI) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. BBBSCI serves more than 1,400 boys and girls annually, ages 8 to 18 in Marion, Hamilton, and Johnson Counties and the program produces significant outcomes in areas related to educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, and socio-emotional health. Littles and their Bigs spend one on one time together a couple times a month, learning about each other’s interests, personalities, and ultimately developing a relationship that can positively influence both their lives. This year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana will celebrate 50 years of Big Brothers in central Indiana. Big Brother David Wallace is continuing this legacy by being a mentor to Little Brother Dakota. Here is a little bit about David.
How do you spend your days?
I’m a marketing specialist at True Media, a media strategy and communications company. I help businesses implement and measure the success of their digital marketing plans. I work with hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and college athletic organizations. In my spare time, I love trying new restaurants around town.
Do you have a favorite local spot? Where and why?
One of my favorite places in Indianapolis is Liter House. They have a great menu and service. It’s a great place to sit down with friends and family. The Broad Ripple Farmers market is located there in the winter as well.
Quick! If you had to remove all the apps from your phone except for 3, which would you keep?
I couldn’t live without Twitter, Instagram, and Yelp.
Why did you become a Big?
I wanted to become a big to be a positive role model in a young person’s life. I think of all of the people that taught me along my journey, directly and indirectly, which has helped me become the man I am today. I believe being a mentor is important because you can help children in your community learn more about the world around them.
How long have you been matched with your Little?
I’ve been matched with my little, Dakota, for a year. In this time, I’ve seen him grow as a young man and transition from middle school to a freshman in high school very well. Dakota is a strong and determined young man. He’s well-oriented in his science courses. Dakota lights up when talking about the lessons he explores in his classes. I’m excited to see how this young man will grow and become a positive influence in his community.
How has this experience helped you explore Indianapolis? Have you learned anything new or fun about Indy?
My little and I have attended a variety of local programs which include listening to public speakers, recreational activities, community events. Most recently, we went to Newfields for their Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration. Recently, Dakota and I learned quite a bit about the Indiana based African-American artists whose work is housed at the Indianapolis Museum of Art.
Do you and Dakota have a favorite local spot?
We spend a lot of time at the local YMCA. We both like lifting weights and staying active. It’s a great way to clear your mind.
How has your relationship grown in the time you’ve been matched?
I’ve seen our relationship grow, because I understand more about Dakota’s needs and what motivates him. Our relationship has grown because we understand a bit more about each other’s goals. We have become friends, instead of strangers. I appreciate the mentor-mentee relationship Dakota and I have. He’s even shown me how to be more focused on my own personal goals.
Why should a person who is new to Indy look at getting involved with BBBS?
Getting involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters has shown me how to navigate my new community. The support that I’ve received from community partners has helped me understand Indianapolis much more than I did before. I’ve learned to “live like a local” volunteering with BBBS.
What is your advice to others who may be considering volunteering as a Big?
People who want to become a Big must be passionate about mentoring their Littles. Helping a Little navigate their needs at whatever point they are at in their journey can be a challenge, but seeing a young person grow in front of you is empowering. You also have to be willing to set a goal for your Little and work at their pace to help them grow.
To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana or get involved, please contact Eric Cervantes.
