Big Brothers Big Sisters Volunteer Wins Award

To kickoff National Mentoring Month, announced its 2012 Big Brother and Big Sister of the year.

This year's honorees were Nicole McNally and Brent White, who were chosen among the organization's 2,000 volunteer mentors.

White, who grew up in Original Carrollwood and now lives in Citrus Park, met his "little brother," Jaime, when the boy was in the second grade. At the time, Jaime's home life was tumultuous. He lived with his grandparents because his mother was incarcerated, and his father had been deported.

But White, 42, who also grew up without a father, immediately connected with Jaime, helping him through social and academic issues. Six years after the two were paired up, Jaime is a thriving high school freshman who attends the same high school that White did.

"I think he's (White) an excellent representation of our volunteers in general," said Gerri Freid Kramer, spokeswoman for BBBS of Tampa Bay. "He's got pride in his little brother, and I think that's so special."

White, who said he was notified about the award in December, said he's proud of what Jaime has accomplished in the years they've known each other.

He said mentoring is important because it teaches kids like Jaime valuable skills.

"Having a mentor who can explain how they dealt with a similar situation allows the child to understand that making mistakes is only part of growing up, and that solutions are always available," he said. "It also lets them know that they are never alone."

White's dedication as a volunteer mentor is best summed up in an essay Jaime wrote that was part of a nomination package used to choose White as winner of the BBBS award.

"I want to grow up to be just like him," Jaime wrote, "and be able to help another child."

Prospective volunteers and donors can visit www.bbbsfl.org, or call (813) 769-3600.

Jaime's last name is not being included in this story due to Big Brothers Big Sisters policy to protect its mentees.