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Mother wants Big Brother to be male role model for her sons

Ginnette Reyes sits with her sons Christian (left), 8, and Andres, 11, in their Hamilton home Wednesday evening, March 10, 2010. Reyes is seeking Big Brother mentors for her sons. Photo by Jessica Uttinger, contributing photographer

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By By Tiffany Y. Latta, Staff Writer Updated 8:45 AM Monday, March 15, 2010

HAMILTON — When Ginnette Reyes graduated from high school her plan was to go to college.

Then life happened.

Two marriages. Two divorces. Three kids.

Now, the former stay-at-home Lindenwald mother works full-time, is pursuing her associate's degree online through the University of Phoenix, but has less time for her children.

That’s why last year she placed them on the waiting list for a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Butler County.

Her daughter, Mina, was matched in about two months.

“She’s nice, funny and cool,” the 10-year-old said of her Big Sister, who has taken her bowling, to play laser tag and to Cincinnati Reds games,

Her brothers, Andres, 11, and Christian, 8, are still waiting.

“They were very excited in the beginning. But now they’re wondering if they’re going to be placed because of the short supply,” Reyes said.

Christian said it would be cool to have a Big Brother who shares his passion for photography and outdoor activities such as biking, hiking and camping.

But mostly, he just wants a Big Brother to spend time with him.

“I would have more time and could do more things that I like to do,” Christian said.

Andres wants a Big Brother he can look up to.

“I get to see my dad four times out of the month. (A Big Brother would) give me more time with a guy to do guy stuff,” said Andres, who enjoys baseball and football.

Reyes said her boys need a male role model to teach them to be successful men.

“There are certain things that a woman can’t teach her sons, and that’s how to be a man. Just like a man can’t teach a girl to be a woman. It’s no fault to men or women, it’s just that we’re different,” Reyes said.

“A strong male role model could help them with their goals and help them have a successful life.”

EDITOR’S NOTE: This story is part of an occasional series that focuses on Butler County children in search of a mentor.

How to apply

To become a Big Brother or Sister or get more info, call (513) 867-1227 or (513) 424-3397. You can also apply online at www.bbbsbutlercounty.com/becomeabig.

You will be asked to provide three references, participate in an in-person interview and orientation and undergo a background check.

To enroll your child as a Little, visit www.bbbsbutlercounty.com/enroll.

»Tell us about your mentors at Journal-News.com

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