Carson City Big Brother Big Sisters mentor program makes huge difference

Living with his two sisters and mom, Jorge Avalos-Silis spends much of his time with women.

"When I'm at home, it's always girly things," he said. "There's never stuff for boys to do."

And sometimes, a 10-year-old just needs a little guy time. So he was happy when his mom signed him up for the Big Brothers Big Sisters program - and even happier when he met his Big Brother, Tim Kosier.

"He looked like one of those that like to camp and hike," Jorge said.

And he was right.

Since being paired up four months ago, the two have gone hiking and camping, as well as kayaking, rock climbing and other adventures.

Meeting up at least once a week, the two take it easy sometimes, too. They go to dinner, sampling new cuisine. They go to sporting events at the University of Nevada, Reno. And they play board games.

For Christmas, Kosier assembled a photo album for Jorge to document their activities during the past months, many of which were a first for the boy.

"By nature, I'm an educator," said Kosier, who spent his career directing programs for developmentally disabled adults in Lincoln, Neb. "We're constantly trying new things, discussing new things. I see that as my role."

Carol Scott, a mentoring program specialist, said the organization provides support for mentors, providing training and recommendations for activities.

"It is this web of support that helps maximize the likelihood that a Big Brothers Big Sisters relationship will thrive," she said.

In the Carson City and Douglas County area, there are 82 matches and 18 children on the waiting list.

Of those 18 children, Scott said, 12 of them are boys and some of them have been waiting more than a year.

"Disproportionately the children we serve and those waiting to be matched are Hispanic and Native American boys," Scott said. "Their parents seek our support, knowing a Big Brother can recognize their son's potential and model positive choices that put him on the path for success in and out of school."

With his own son now 29, Kosier said he enjoys the enthusiasm Jorge brings.

"Like I told Jorge, I've got gray hair, but I've still got a lot of energy," he said.

Although paired together through the organization, their relationship is more than a formality. The two say they've found a true friendship, rooted in their ability to laugh together.

"He always says, 'I'll be darned,'" Jorge explained. "So if I find a penny or something, I'll say, 'I'll be darned.' And he laughs."

It's a bond that they expect will only grow as they continue to spend time together.

"We've go a lot of learning and things to do yet," Kosier said.