For many years, Prescott, AZ, resident Eric Costanios volunteered with Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters at their Bowl For Kids’ Sake annual fundraiser. After sharing the mentoring mission with hundreds of people and encouraging others to become a Big Brother or Sister, he felt it was time he became one. He has stepped up to become a board member.
Seven years ago he was matched with Chase, then 13. Eric shared, “When Chase and I were first matched he didn’t want to talk and literally told me he didn’t need any adults or see the need for school. Since then he not only finished high school he has continued on to graduate from the welding program at Yavapai College and is looking to continue his education in this field. It has benefitted me in many ways, it has helped me develop a friendship that will last a lifetime.”
Matches like the one between Eric and Chase require hours of support and resources from professional match advisors. The financial support of game-changing donors like you allows YBBBS to expand its mission to more Yavapai County youth up to the age of 24.
Still matched, Eric and Chase extended their Match to include Devon, 16, three years ago. “This match has benefited both of us. I have seen the growth in Devon, from being a shy teenager to an outgoing teenager in high school. He now is not afraid to make new friends and/or perform in public and is always willing to help his community. For, me it gives me the satisfaction of seeing a boy grow into a talented vibrant young man,” said Eric.
Fishing is a big part of what the three share. “If given the chance Chase and I can easily fish for 4 to 5 hours. We also have taken a few road trips to explore our state and what it has to offer us.”
“Devon and I love to do many different things, but most of all fishing. We are also both foodies so we go on lots of food adventures by checking out new restaurants. We also have visited every museum in our neighborhood as well as a few down in the valley. Our conversations revolve around his love of singing and furthering his education and his plans once he graduates from high school.”
DONATE HERE TODAY TO BE A GAME-CHANGER LIKE ERIC!
About YBBBS
For more than 50 years, Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters has served over 12,000 youth and has operated under the belief that inherent in every young person is the ability to succeed and thrive in life. We make meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and youth (“Littles”), ages 6 through 24. We develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people. We have offices in Prescott and Cottonwood. Reach out today for more information at 928.778.5135.