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Why I Mentor

Oklahomans in every corner of the state are volunteering time each week to make a difference in a child's life. The Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence has asked some of these mentors to share their experiences.

Eric Butler, a student at the University of Oklahoma in Norman, volunteers as a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma.

Why is mentoring important to you?
I believe in giving back what I have received in life. I have received great support through my walk on Earth from people older and wiser who took interest in my life. They stood with me in tough times and were there to share joy in the good times. I believe in continuing the process as I am not a self made man and need the human race to assist in my own destiny.

How or why did you become involved?
I looked into the program after I spent some time with my wife's siblings that are in Ohio. I cannot spend much time with them, even though I want to because the distance does not provide a lot of interaction. So, I decided that I can help someone in my local community by volunteering. BB/BS is a perfect place for that desire.

How have you personally benefited from mentoring?
I actually learn a lot about life by mentoring a younger person. The view of a younger child is so full of life and innocence. People as they get older get jaded through hurts and experiences. It helps me to remember how I once saw the world and people without those adult judgements. I feel good about being someone that a younger person can talk to and have a friendship with. It is good to have parents, family, and friends. Friends like what BB/BS offers really shows that a person cares because they are not forced or born into the position; they volunteer! This speaks volumes to a person.

Give an example of an activity you have shared with your mentee.
My love language is activity and thankfully my little speaks the same language. We often go to an outside setting and pass football or shoot basketball. It is those moments of interaction that we carry on great conversations and enjoy each others company while sharing a sport. Also, we have spent time going to the local sporting venues in the area.