From the moment Dan became a Big Brother, it was clear his commitment would go far beyond what’s expected. Over time, Dan has become a true wrap-around support system—not just for his Little Brother Ma’Khi, but for his entire family.
Dan shows up. Every game. Every school performance. Every moment that matters. Whether he’s cheering from the sidelines or sitting in the audience, Ma’Khi always knows “Mister Dan” will be there. That consistency has helped build a bond rooted in trust.
But Dan’s impact doesn’t stop there. He has cooked meals for Ma’Khi’s entire football team, opened his home to Ma’Khi’s family during the holidays, and even extended his mentorship to siblings and cousins, attending their games and milestones as well. To everyone involved, this isn’t just a match. It’s family for life.
Dan and his wife have also modeled what healthy relationships look like, recently going on double dates with Ma’Khi and his girlfriend. When Ma’Khi’s grandmother and caretaker experienced the loss of her mother, Dan was there again, offering support during one of the family’s most difficult moments.
One of the most powerful examples of Dan’s dedication came when Ma’Khi earned the opportunity to perform trumpet at the Heart String Gala, hosted by Band of Angels. The black-tie event required student musicians to wear formal attire and participate in professional headshots. The cost of the outfit (nearly $400) came just months after Ma’Khi’s grandmother had paid for a funeral on her own. Without hesitation, Dan stepped in. He wanted Ma’Khi to feel confident, prepared, and celebrated during this milestone moment. Dan and his wife attended the performance, watching proudly as Ma’Khi took the stage.
Since being matched in 2019, Ma’Khi has experienced significant growth—academically, emotionally, and socially. He has learned how to process emotions and build resilience with Dan’s steady guidance and support. Knowing he has a trusted male role model to turn to has made a lasting difference.
When asked about his Big, Ma’Khi simply said: “He is great. He definitely goes above and beyond, and we are a part of each other’s families.”
Ma’Khi’s grandmother echoed that sentiment:
“Mister Dan is family. Him and his wife are part of our lives forever now. Ma’Khi has improved so much since being matched. It helps that Dan supports him with the male side of things. Ma’Khi knows he can always go to him. I am forever grateful.”
From the perspective of his Match Support Specialist, Dan’s impact is impossible to miss.
“He was one of the first Bigs I met when I started working at BBBS, and I was immediately blown away by his generous spirit. He is the first to call the family when something good or bad happens. The fact that the entire family, including cousins and aunts, not only know Dan, but love and trust him, is incredibly powerful. Dan often tells me he feels he’s gotten more out of the match than his Little has.”
Dan’s story is a reminder of what mentorship can truly be: consistent, selfless, and deeply transformative.
