A Bond That Changed a Life
Some relationships begin quietly and yet go on to shape a lifetime. This is the story of Joshua and James, known to many as Jamie, a story rooted in mentorship, love, and the lasting impact of showing up for someone.
Joshua met his godfather, James, through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. What began as a mentor match in 2014 soon became a life changing bond.
“I met my godfather, James, through the Big Brother Big Sister program, and from the beginning he became a mentor to me and someone I looked up to. He was a very warm and kind person to be around.”
Through Big Brothers Big Sisters, Joshua and Jamie spent years sharing moments that became treasured memories. Their time together was filled with adventure, laughter, and connection, built around shared interests and genuine care.
“Through the program, we shared so many amazing moments I’ll never forget from going to hockey games, where we even got to see the players walk into the locker room, to moments in the backyard where we just hung out or, on occasion, played street hockey. We shared so many of the same interests, which made it even better because we always had something to talk about.”
For Jamie’s family, watching the relationship grow was deeply meaningful. What started as mentorship became something much more, enriching both of their lives.
“Jamie became Josh’s mentor in 2014, they formed a special bond and spent a lot of time adventuring through life together. Josh became Jamie’s sidekick and I could see how the relationship was changing both of their lives for the better.”
In 2018, that bond was formally recognized when Jamie became Joshua’s godfather. Even after stepping away from the program, Jamie remained a constant and loving presence in Joshua’s life.
“Even after he stopped working with the program, he remained a huge part of my life, and we continued to make memories that shaped who I am.”
Joshua grew into a kind, thoughtful, and well spoken young man, someone Jamie was always incredibly proud of.
“Josh has grown up to become such a kind, well spoken man. Jamie was always so proud of him, and I know he still is.”
Jamie tragically passed away in 2023. This year marks two years without him, but his legacy continues to live on through the people he loved and the lives he changed. One of those legacies is Jamie’s Pay It Forward Project, created to continue giving back in his name.
“To be able meet with BBBS and deliver the first donation with Josh, through Jamie’s Pay It Forward Project, means a lot to our family.”
For Joshua, gratitude remains at the heart of his story and at the heart of his connection to Big Brothers Big Sisters.
“I’ll always be grateful to Big Brother Big Sister for bringing us together and giving me a connection that changed my life. My relationship with James became one of the most important parts of my life, and I hope more kids get the chance to find someone like that through Big Brother Big Sister.”
This story is a powerful reminder that mentorship is not just about time spent together. It is about trust, consistency, and care. Through Big Brothers Big Sisters, relationships like Joshua and Jamie’s continue to change lives, creating bonds that last far beyond the program and leave an impact that endures.
To learn more about Jamie’s Pay It Forward Project, visit (5) Facebook
1st photo: Jamies Brother Derek, Mentee Josh, Jamies Mother, Jamies Sister Brittany.
2nd photo: All friends and family who came from Peterborough & Niagara
