Little Brother Austin & Big Brother John: 2026 Match of the Year

Austin and John were matched in May of 2023 because of their shared love for trying new foods, music, sports, going on walks, and being active. Additionally, both Austin and John have a strong sense of humor – something that BBBSCI staff believed would make their friendship an even stronger, and fun, one.   

For their very first hangout, they went for a walk outside where Austin got John signed up for Pokémon Go – one of his favorite games. When thinking about this hangout, John says, “That memory still makes me smile.” 

A memory that sticks out to Austin is when John took him to the gym. He said John showed him a lot of new exercises – including some on the bench that he appreciated.  

A lot of Austin and John’s hangouts are spent having meals together. They love to try new foods – especially spicy ones – and new restaurants. Together, they’ve tried Harry & Izzy’s, Verde, La Piedad, Buffalo Wild Wings, and so many more! At Buffalo Wild Wings, Austin and John have also been trying a new wing flavor each time they visit. 

While something as simple as playing Pokémon or grabbing a meal together might not seem like a big deal – the time they’ve spent together has helped them to build a meaningful and trusting friendship. John said, “Some of my favorite moments together have been the simple ones – eating, laughing, listening to music, and battling it out on Pokémon.” 

Outside of their planned hangouts, John also shows up for Austin in big ways – celebrating his accomplishments and encouraging him to explore his passions. John has supported Austin at his numerous choir concerts – even surprising him at one! Additionally, John purchased a new guitar for Austin so that he could teach him how to play, something he’s expressed interest in. 

Austin has also said that John has been someone that he can confide in about things that are causing him anxiety or difficulty – offering him helpful advice about how to handle these situations. In a letter to John, Austin said, “You really taught me how to better let go of my stress.”  

Through their friendship, Austin feels like John has helped him to grow as a person and gain new insights on the world. Similarly, John said this about Austin, “You have a way of seeing the world that always gives me a fresh perspective, and I just really enjoy spending time with you.” 

As Austin approaches his last year in high school, John continues to support and encourage him to reach his goals. Right now, Austin is in a program to learn the ins and outs of IT – including many lessons on web development and coding – and is considering related careers. When thinking about Austin’s future, John said, “I hope you continue to challenge yourself to be good and gracious and continue to strive toward your goals. You have so much potential and I’m very excited to see where life takes you.” 

While Austin will be a senior next year, John thinks that they will remain friends well past his high school graduation. Austin himself has said that he hopes his friendship and mentorship will last forever! John wants it to be clear, though, the positive impact has gone both ways. To Austin, John said, “I’m thankful for your friendship, for the laughs, and for the ways you’ve helped me grow. Being matched with you has been a gift. You’ve made my life better just by being in it.”