The Big Impact: Mick & Kaden: Finding Fun & Friendship in the Everyday
THE STORY OF KADEN & MICK
When Mick signed up to become a Big Brother, it wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision. It was something he had been thinking about for years.
“I believe all children deserve a time out, a moment when they can learn, play, or try something new with a friend who will not judge them,” Mick shares. “Being able to share my experiences and knowledge with someone who may never have these opportunities is a defining moment in my life.”
Since July 2023, Mick has been matched with Kaden through Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Simcoe’s Community-Based Mentorship program. Together, they’ve created a rhythm of connection through simple joys: fishing, woodworking, biking, and playing soccer or pool.
Kaden describes the match as “a 10/10.”
“I really enjoy the time I spend with my Big Brother. We have many things in common like woodworking, fishing, and playing soccer,” Kaden says. “I would describe my Big Brother as cool, a hard worker, and funny. He teaches me new things, and we always do fun things together.”
For Mick, the feeling is mutual.
“I genuinely enjoy the time we spend together. The more time we spend, the more comfortable we get with one another,” he says. “You may not think that you are making a difference but you really are.”
At the heart of this match is something beautifully simple: a shared belief in the power of showing up. Week after week, Mick and Kaden are building memories, trust, and a sense of belonging, one fishing trip and woodworking project at a time.
Want to be part of something BIG? Explore becoming a mentor.
