By Rick Chambers, Rick Chambers & Associates 

Brittany Ughetti’s journey to becoming a Big Sister began with a casual reading of a newsletter.

“I read in a monthly newsletter that Borgess offers a ‘Lunch Buddy’ program where associates can use their lunch time to meet with a Little once per week,” said Brittany, a Battle Creek resident who works at Borgess Health and Fitness Center in Kalamazoo and mentors through Big Brothers Big Sisters A Community of Caring.

“I immediately thought the program was thoughtful, flexible and held a huge opportunity for me, so I took advantage of it,” she added. “I have always wanted to be involved with BBBS so I could reach out to kids in the program and be a role model, provide support or just offer a bit of fun.”

Brittany went through the training process and was matched with her Little, a sixth grader, in November 2012.

“I was a bit nervous to meet my Little, but also very excited,” Brittany recalled. “I was eager to get to know her and the things she liked. I guess I was the most nervous in hopes she would like me, too! But despite my butterflies, our first day turned out good. We mostly talked and got to know each other. Before she left, she gave me a big hug.  I figured that was a good sign!”

Since then, the two have grown close.

“My Little started off quite shy, but she really has opened up to me as time has gone by,” said Brittany. “She loves cats, and we talk about her family and friends. Our time together has slowly shifted from me asking all the questions to her just bringing up different stories about friends and family, or asking questions herself.”

The two play games together—Uno and Yahtzee are their favorites, and they track their game-playing through a master scorecard. Brittany is already looking ahead to new activities they can do together during the summer.

January is National Mentoring Month, and Brittany is encouraging adults to mentor young people—be it through Big Brothers Big Sisters, through United 4 Change, or through many opportunities available through Volunteer Kalamazoo and HandsOn Battle Creek.

“For years, I always felt too busy or put becoming a Big on the back burner, but I’m so glad I made it a priority. Now that I am doing it, I feel good that I take time to focus on someone other than myself. Spending time with free-spirited kids helps to remind us we never have to get too old to play,” she said.

Her advice for those who still aren’t sure?

“Just try it! If you think you are too busy, you aren’t. If you think you won’t make a difference, you will.”