Christopher & Dan — A Bond Built to Last

At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan, we believe in the transformative power of connection. Few matches embody that power more clearly than our May Match of the Month: Meet Big Dan and Little Christopher.


Christopher was just ten years old when he met Dan in 2021. Since that day, their bond has grown from an initial connection over sports and video games to a meaningful, multi-layered friendship that will celebrate its fourth anniversary this July. Now 15 years old, Christopher is taller, stronger, and wiser—and a big part of that growth has come from the consistency, patience, and encouragement of his Big, Dan.


Dan is the kind of mentor who doesn't just show up—he invests. Whether it's tutoring Christopher in algebra before a big exam or channeling his inner kid on roller coasters at Cedar Point, Dan approaches his role with both enthusiasm and intention. He knows that mentorship isn't just about showing up to the fun stuff. It's about being present during the quiet moments too—during a tough homework session, after a rough day at school, or simply to talk.


Before I signed up for mentoring, Dan shares, I doubted my ability to make a meaningful impact. But my match with Christopher taught me that showing up week after week can change a life. "I promise you, showing up and demonstrating that you care comprises the foundational bedrock of a meaningful connection. You don't have to be perfect, you just have to be present!"


Christopher has certainly felt that presence. "Dan has taught me to do everything 110% and push myself to be better," he says. "My favorite thing about Dan is his energy and will to do things—it's made me want to do more than I used to."


They've created unforgettable memories together: attending Michigan football games, movie nights, karate classes, and even last-minute math study sessions. But beyond the outings and adventures, it's the emotional support that makes this match special. Christopher now has someone outside his immediate family to talk to, lean on, and learn from.


Christopher’s mom, Lisa, captures the heart of their match perfectly: It’s so much more than just having a mentor. Dan is an integral part of our family now. He didn’t shy away when things got hard, and that means the world to us. "Thank you, Dan, for being such an impactful part of our village. You are a great mentor and friend and we will treasure you always.”


From trips to the Big House to bonding over football stats and life advice, this match has become an inspiring example of what BBBS is all about: building meaningful connection, and lifelong impact. In a world that often feels divided, Dan and Christopher remind us that one strong, steady relationship can be the spark that that changes everything.

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Congratulations to Dan and Christopher on being our May Match of the Month. Thank you for showing us the true power of connection—and for reminding us of the transformative power of relationships.