May 2019 Match of the month

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Manitowoc County has named Big Brother Leon LeClair and Little Brother Mark as its match of the month for May. Each month, the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization selects a “match” for this recognition. The award is given in honor of the commitment the volunteer and child have made to each other and to the organization in developing a special friendship. This month Leon and Mark are going to be treated to free sandwiches courtesy of Subway.

Leon is a machinist for Manitowoc County. He lives in Two Rivers and had been married for 37 years. Mark is a 7th grader at Washington who loves to swim and go fishing. The pair has been matched since July of 2017. Leon enjoys being a big because he says it “keeps him young!” He likes keeping his little brother active and having something to do. Mark most enjoys just having someone to hang out with. The “brothers” have been to Green Bay Rattlers and Green Bay Blizzard games together, and also like going swimming, ice fishing, and roller skating. Mark loved participating in the fish derby with his big brother- they tried to take first place and are both competitive. It was really special for Mark because it was his first time ever being in a boat. Leon noted it is really neat for him to get to go swimming with Mark in the same lake where he grew up. They really enjoy the Match sports events put on by Big Brothers Big Sisters too!
When Leon first joined the program, he wasn’t sure what to expect, but he knew he wanted to help out a young man in the community. Mark was excited for their first meeting at Cedar Crest and wanted to become a little to be able to spend one on one quality time with someone. They have had a great experience in the program and are excited to go camping and hiking at Point Beach this summer. Leon noted that he enjoys teaching Mark to set goals and how to ask for things. Mark has had a lot of fun getting to do various activities. The pair loves to play Mario Kart together on the Wii, which Big Brothers Big Sisters has available to check out.
​Leon and Mark want to encourage others to get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters. They both have gained new experiences from participating in the organization and are making a positive impact on one another and the community. Mark wants other children in the area to know that joining the program as a little means you get to spend special time with someone older doing fun things. As for those considering being “Bigs” in the program, Leon notes it is a great way to gain a new perspective on how young people are. There is a thorough process to make sure you get matched with  Big/Little who seems like a good fit for your personality and who you could foster a meaningful relationship with, as Leon and Mark have. If you would like to learn more or get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters, contact the Manitowoc agency at bbbs@bbbsmantycounty.org or  by calling 920-684-7445.