Group offers role models for boys

For most boys, a 14th birthday would be a day of celebration. However, there is one 14-year-old who wishes this birthday had never come.

Gilbert (who's last name was withheld to preserve his privacy) has now reached the age that disqualifies him from being assigned a big brother. He currently lives with his mother and five sisters, but lacks a father figure. His father left when he was five.

Unfortunately, Gilbert is just one of many boys who waited, but never had the chance to meet a big brother in which he can confide. He still feels that something is "missing from his life."

Catholic Big Brothers, a non-profit organization, responded to this problem many years ago. Since it was founded in 1926, CBB has been responsible for matching boys like Gilbert, who are between the ages of 7 and 14, with men older than 18, who will act as positive role models.

Most of these boys live in poverty; they come from single, female-headed households, and for various reasons, they do not have fathers. They need guidance and male influence.

"One of the biggest outcomes I've noticed and what moms and big brothers have noticed is that the boys have a bigger self-esteem from spending time with their big brothers," said Karen Robertson, the director of public relations. "When your self-esteem improves, your entire quality of life improves."

The big brothers spend three to four hours a day interacting with their little brothers. They are matched according to common interests, so they spend their time together enjoying their favorite activities.

According to the CBB annual report, this is the time when boys gain positive influence from their older brothers.

"(Little brothers) might belong to a gang or to a team or the Boy's and Girl's Club," Robertson said. But because of where they lived, she said joining a gang would be most likely since they are so available. Little brothers have also showed improvement in their grades.

The number of boys on the waiting list far outweighs the number of volunteers. There are 500 children with big brothers, but many are still waiting.

To become a big brother, you must be at least 18, have a valid drivers license and live in Los Angeles County. CBB asks applicants to dedicate three to four hours a week for one year with his little brother. You may be from any faith.

For more information or to volunteer, call Karen Robertson at (213) 251-9800.