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Health & Fitness

MENtor Monday: Big Brother Dan, Crystal Lake

"I have discovered that spending time with my little has made me think about being a 7 yr old kid again. I enjoy seeing my Little's excitement about things as an adult I would take for granted.."

Dan Bell, Big Brother from Crystal Lake

A little bit about Dan and why he decided to become a Big Brother:
“I am a Construction Professional.  I grew up in the suburbs.  I was very active growing up; playing just about every sport either competitively or in parking lots with friends. 

I decided to become a Big Brother after hearing radio advertisements. I had a 1 1/2 old son at the time and going through that experience made me realize that how important it is to have positive people in your life.” 

Find out what's happening in Algonquin-Lake In The Hillswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

What do you and your Little like to do together?
“We try to do something different each time, but there are favorites.  When the weather is nice we bike ride, play catch, basketball, go swimming and this summer we hope to go fishing. This winter we went bowling, played video games and board games and went to the roller rink. 

We went pumpkin picking around Halloween. We hung out and did some shopping and ran errands around Christmas.  We have also gone to the pet store to see all the different kinds of animals.”

Find out what's happening in Algonquin-Lake In The Hillswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

How or has this experience changed your life?
“It has made me realize the hardships that some families go through.  I think it will help me as a parent.”

What kind of changes if any have you seen in your Little?
“My little has shown interest in things I am interested in.  As we send more time together he asks me more about my life.  He asks me to explain things to him, what all the gauges and lights mean on the dashboard in my car, for example.  I think he is more willing to be active, to try new sports or activities.”

**Why do you think other MEN should volunteer to become a Big Brother?**
“The obvious answer to this  questions is because it is a great way to make a difference in a child's life.  It is great to hear from parents about how much your Little looks forward to seeing you and how much it helps them.  I take away a sense of accomplishment from our meetings.”

Anything else you would like to share about your experience being a Big Brother?
“I have discovered that spending time with my little has made me think about being a 7 yr old kid again.  I enjoy seeing my Little's excitement about things as an adult I would take for granted and in turn realize how much fun the little things in life are.”

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Would you like to beomce a Big Brother like Dan and be one of our 30 MEN in 30 DAYS?

If you would like to learn more about becoming a Big Brother please call our office at 815-385-3855

OR

Come to Buffalo Wild Wings Crystal Lake TONIGHT from 6-8PM for MENtor Monday! Wing Eating Competitions, WiiNGMAN Bowling, giftcard Prizes and FREE WING Coupon for filling out an interest form!

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

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