Little Brother Josh was born in Las Vegas but moved to Oahu when he was four months old during a time when his parents were getting a divorce. Josh’s father eventually remarried and last saw Josh when he was five. Mom signed Josh up for the program because she was looking for a positive male role model who would encourage him to try new things, motivate him with school and to help him go through life transitions.
Josh was seven when he first met his Big Brother Roman in June of 2014. Roman said he "was raised by a single mom and when I found out what BBBS was about I wished I had a Big when I was growing up. I knew there was someone out there saying the same thing and I wanted to turn that wish into reality."
Since being matched, Roman has been a positive influence in Josh’s life. Josh said "If I never had a Big it would be hard for me and I would not be the person I am today. I have a person to talk to." Roman helped Josh with his social skills by introducing him to new people while they’re on their outings and coached him on how to be respectful to others. Roman also provided guidance to Josh with his academics. Roman helped Josh understand that homework and studying are not optional. Josh credits Roman for helping him see how important grades are because it can affect his future. Mom shared that "Roman truly leads by example, and I hope some day that Joshua will learn to also share his time and talents so selflessly as his Big Brother."
