Strengthening Families
We envision a community where all children are nutured by informed parents/caregivers and have access to quality health, developmental, and educational services which prepare them for success in school and life. We also envision a community where families are strong and healthy, and live in safe, viable neighborhoods.
THE POWER OF ONE
Ann Weeks is a loving mother of two children. Courage is what sets her apart as she raises both as a single mom. A few years ago Ann recognized her son, Gregory, was in desperate need of a positive male role model in his life. In hopes of filling this void, she made a choice to enroll Gregory in the Geauga County Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) program. Steve Schmidtke is a tenderhearted and compassionate man who desired to serve and give back to his community. He made a choice to become a mentor in the BBBS program. These two individual choices became the catalyst that would forever alter the life of young Gregory BBBS matched up Steve and Gregory two years ago and Ann “appreciated Steve right off the bat” knowing instinctively that he was the perfect fit for her son. What began as common interests blossomed into a bond of trust and friendship between the two. Whether it is attending sporting events, hiking, bowling, working on school projects or playing the Wii™, Steve and Gregory’s weekly gatherings have transformed them. Ann has watched Gregory’s self esteem soar as a result of Steve’s influence and is grateful for Steve “being there for my son in ways that I cannot.” Steve’s life has also been profoundly affected by the “strong sense of family connection” he feels towards Gregory stating, “It is a privilege being in his life. Anyone able to mentor a child should do so.” When asked what is so rewarding about the BBBS program, Executive Director Tim Kehres responded by saying, “What is awe-inspiring to me is how dramatically one person can change the life of another simply by loving them.”
Steve Schmidtke’s decision to love has remarkably changed the life of one young man and his family – a decision that will ripple positive change throughout generations to come. As for eleven-year-old Gregory, his enthusiasm and charm are infectious. He recently confided in Steve how he felt about their relationship by saying, “I think we’re made for each other.” “Why’s that?” Steve asked. “Because we both like Mountain Dew® slushies!” exclaimed Gregory. Dare to believe in the power of one...
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