For Jeff Gigante of Next Level Brands, the impact of having a Big Brother is something that has stayed with him throughout his life. Although his time with his Big, John, was relatively brief, the lessons and memories they shared left a lasting impression.
Jeff was just 10 years old when he was matched with John. An active, athletic kid who especially loved soccer, Jeff already had a positive male role model in his youth soccer coach, Coach Bill. While Coach Bill taught his team valuable lessons about sports and life, Jeff’s mom, a hardworking single mother with two jobs, recognized that her son could benefit from another mentor who could provide consistent guidance and one-on-one connection.
After two previous matches with older gentlemen where a strong connection never quite developed, Jeff was matched with John, a younger man serving in the military who had a natural gift for conversation and connecting with people.
John quickly became someone Jeff looked up to, sharing lessons that extended far beyond the soccer field. He taught Jeff the importance of a firm handshake, keeping your word, loyalty, and surrounding yourself with good friends. Simple lessons that would stay with Jeff long after their match ended.
One of Jeff’s favorite memories was going horseback riding with John. It was a completely new experience, and while Jeff remembers it being both fun and a little terrifying, it became an adventure he would never forget.
Today, Jeff looks back on his time with John with tremendous fondness and gratitude. His experience is a powerful reminder that every mentoring relationship can leave a lifelong impression.
We are incredibly grateful to Jeff for continuing to champion the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay. As a passionate advocate for mentorship and a recent co-host of Guys Night Out at The Motor Enclave, Jeff continues to help us create awareness, build connections, and inspire others to invest in the next generation.
Thank you, Jeff, for sharing your story and helping us make BIG things happen!
Interested in becoming a Big? Click here to learn more about how you can help change a child’s life!
