Bruce Copeland’s first involvement with Big Brothers Big Sisters was when he began participating in Summer Bowl for Kids’ Sake over 24 years ago. That event turned into him getting more involved and eventually turned into him becoming a Big Brother and created a meaningful Match with his Little Brother Brahm that has spanned decades.
Growing up, Bruce experienced firsthand the importance of mentorship. With hardworking parents who were often busy, he leaned on the guidance of teachers, counselors, and others who stepped in to offer support. These experiences inspired him to give back, and BBBS seemed like the perfect way to honor those who had helped him. “It felt like a way for me to give back in honor of those who gave their time to help set me on the right path,” he shared.
When Bruce was matched with Brahm, his Little, he saw a boy who could benefit from a positive male role model. Brahm’s biological father was out of the picture, and with no close male figures in his life, his mother turned to BBBS. “At the time, his mother and her partner thought it would be wise to have a male role model in his life,” Bruce said. From there, their relationship blossomed, evolving as Brahm grew up.
Over the years, Bruce has been there for Brahm as he transitioned from elementary school to middle school, high school, and even college. Watching Brahm grow into a confident adult, particularly in overcoming his fear of performing to discover a love for theater, has been a source of pride. “Brahm and his mother say I did so much, but it felt like second nature to me,” he said. “The whole idea of it takes a village to raise a child– I was just doing my part.”
When asked what being a Big means to him, Bruce emphasized the unique role a mentor plays. “You’re not a parent, but sometimes you’re just short of being a friend. You’re a family member, guiding a younger sibling.” That balance between role model and support system has been key to their lasting bond.
For Bruce, being a Big hasn’t just impacted Brahm—it’s made him a better person. “It’s taught me patience, grace, and how to handle the growing pains that come with youth. It’s definitely made me a better father to my own kids,” he said.
When asked about the secret to such a long-lasting match, Bruce said, “Consistency, honesty, grace, and knowing when to offer support. You have to be there through the good times and bad.”
His advice for other Bigs? Don’t be afraid to ask for help. “There’s so much knowledge out there, from the staff and other Bigs. There’s no need to reinvent the wheel to be a good mentor.”
Supporting BBBSKC is more than just helping one child—it’s about creating a ripple effect. “Mentorship starts something bigger,” Bruce reflected. “Like a wave from a pebble in a pond, the impact can be endless.” By mentoring today’s youth, he believes, we can change lives and pay it forward in ways that last a lifetime.
Join us in celebrating incredible matches like Bruce and Brahm by getting involved with BBBSKC!
