For Donald Smith having a big brother from the Big Brothers & Big Sisters Organisation is one of the best things in his life. When Donald met his big brother, Don Mitchell, he was was immediately overjoyed.

The idea of obtaining a big brother came from Donald?s mother. After his father died from a massive heart attack in December 1998, his mother thought that he needed a positive male influence in his life. She enrolled him into the Big Brothers & Big Sisters Organisation and after ten months a match was found for Donald.

Donald said that over the years, he had grown very close to Mr. Mitchell and considers him to be a part of his family. They enjoy many sports together including golf, dominoes, cricket and football. Various activities include snorkelling at the beach, fishing, going to the movies and taking nature walks.

He also said that there are so many places of interests, functions and events that they participate in.

Along with the fun and games, Mr. Mitchell has taken an interest in Donald?s education. He buys him books and encourages him to read. When they meet on Saturdays, he tells Donald to bring a book with him. Their most recent outing included going to Hamilton to buy luggage.

Even though Mr. Mitchell does a lot of travelling due to his job, Donald said they communicate no matter where he is. On Donald?s birthday, Mr. Mitchell was in Dubai but managed to call him twice to wish him a happy birthday.

?This meant a lot to me because he took the time out of his busy schedule for me when some of my family members right here in Bermuda where not able to call and wish me a happy birthday?, he said.

Donald really appreciates the effort that Mr. Mitchell takes out to include him in his life. He said Mr. Mitchell is ?an amazing role model and the most positive male figure in my life?.

He added: ?Even though Mr. Mitchell does not take the place of my father what he does for me is greatly appreciated by me and my mother?.