Sean Hylton has been a Big Brother for four years providing support and guidance to his Little Brother, DeQuonterio. When Sean and DeQuonterio were matched, DeQuonterio was struggling with positive decision making and was behind academically. With the support and guidance from his mentor, Sean, these behaviors have been resurrected. DeQuonterio is performing at the level he should be academically and now knows the true qualities of friendship. He is on the Honor Roll for the first time this year, has not had any school violations, and has increased his attendance.
Sean's commitment to DeQuonterio and dedication never falters. After meeting in school once a week for two years, the match decided to expand their friendship and transfer into the "School Based Plus" option allowing visits to take place both during school and after school. They have now been meeting this way for two years going to UNI basketball games, grabbing a bite to eat for breakfast, attending agency activities, along with many other activities.
Sean has taken interest in DeQuonterio's well-being making it his personal mission to keep DeQuonterio moving forward on a positive path. Sean constantly seeks out advice to find innovative strategies to incorporate into his visits and is continually working to better his relationship with his Little Brother. Sean understands that his impact will evolve and blossom even more as DeQuonterio ventures into becoming an outstanding individual. Sean is a strong advocate for mentoring and sets a good example for all future mentors. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Iowa is fortunate to have Sean's continued service and unwavering dedication.
Since moving to the Cedar Valley a few years ago, Jim Brown has become an integral and critical component to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Iowa leadership and service delivery. Motivated by a desire for all children to achieve success in life, he works tirelessly for our agency and our agency's youth.
Jim has been a Big Brother to DeAngelo since July of 2009. Over the years, he and Jim have been meeting on a regular basis, going to movies, building model rockets, visiting museums and just hanging out. Today, DeAngelo does better in school, plays football and has dreams of one day playing professionally. Jim includes his Little Brother in activities that will stretch DeAngelo's experience and skills. For Jim, it's all about what will make DeAngelo a stronger, more successful person, not just today, but in the future. Jim believes he is in DeAngelo's life to ensure he's the best he can be.
Jim's commitment to the mission doesn't stop at being a Big. He's also stepped into the role of a Board member and is currently the President of the Board of Directors. Jim is involved with the guidance and vision of the agency and provides leadership to staff and other Board members through his words, but even more so through his actions and dedication of hard work, realistic expectations, and time. Jim doesn't turn down an opportunity to share the stories of Big Brothers Big Sisters and understands that the mission affects our entire community.
Jim truly makes a difference in the life of his own Little Brother and to the hundreds of children served each year by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Iowa.
Congratulations to Sean and Jim on receiving the Mayors' Volunteer Award!
Two very deserving volunteers!
