West Hartford College Student Is Also A 'Big Brother'

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut

WEST HARTFORD, CT – A college student from West Hartford has found time amidst his world of studying to mentor a youngster and help prepare him for adulthood.

And the life lessons learned are from both mentor and mentee.

West Hartford resident Jack Del Coro, a senior at the University of Connecticut, has been a "Big Brother" since October 2022, when he began mentoring Brayden, a fifth-grader at Putnam Elementary School in Putnam, as part of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut’s site and school-based Program.

Del Coro was recognized in April, which is National Volunteer Month.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Connecticut is recognizing its great volunteer mentors and seeking new volunteers.

Volunteer mentors play a vital role in shaping the future of Connecticut’s youth by offering guidance, friendship, and support.

“Without a doubt, being a mentor for Brayden has been a highlight at my time at UConn,” said Del Coro. “Being able to go to Putnam, spend that time with him every week, and form that bond makes me happy. It elevates my mood and brings me joy to get away from the stress of school. Seeing him grow into the person he has become has made me very proud of him.”

Del Coro mentors Brayden every Wednesday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in Putnam.

He helps Brayden with homework, and the two enjoy playing board games, card games, and basketball together.

"Watching the bond between Big Brother Jack and Little Brother Brayden grow over the past three years has been truly inspiring," said Susan Black, Big Brothers Big Sisters' site-based program manager.

"What started as weekly homework help and afternoon chats has blossomed into a meaningful connection that’s had a real impact on Brayden’s confidence and motivation in school.”

She said the time commitment for a Big Brother Big Sister volunteer is minimal, but the impact on the youths is great.

“Their story is a powerful reminder of how just one hour a week can make a lasting difference in a child’s life,” said Black.
Del Coro encourages adults to become "Bigs" for the meaningful bonds and positive impact they can have on a young person.

“You get to be a true role model. There’s nothing transactional. You’re just being there for someone,” he said. “You don’t know the impact you could potentially have on
someone’s life. It’s a very fulfilling feeling.”

For more information on becoming a Big Brothers Big Sisters volunteer or the program itself, click on this link.