For nearly 30 years, Bryan has been by Jordan’s side not only as a Big Brother through Big Brothers Big Sisters but as a steady, guiding presence. Their story is one of mentorship that grew into family, demonstrating the lifelong impact of consistent, caring relationships.
🎥 Watch their story on YouTube: https://youtu.be/6jwJPhJkkY8?si=rhA_Wq3FgrMa4VxM
A Match That Changed Everything
When Jordan Summers was nine years old, he asked his mother if he could have a Big Brother like his older brother Luke. That question, simple yet full of hope, changed the course of his life.
In 1995, Jordan was matched with Bryan. What began as weekly outings quickly became something much deeper: a relationship built on trust, encouragement, and genuine care.
“Every single week he’d pick me up, and we’d go see a movie or head to the park,” Jordan shared. “Those outings were so meaningful to me.”
Bryan became a consistent presence and a source of encouragement. “One of my proudest moments was seeing Jordan go to college and then graduate,” Bryan said. “Watching him grow through all those stages of life has been amazing.”
Walking Through Life’s Hardest Moments
Jordan and his brother Luke shared a unique bond. Both had Big Brothers who became part of their extended family. Together, they built memories filled with laughter, shared meals, and connection.
When Luke passed away years later while pursuing his own calling, Jordan’s world changed forever.
“After Luke died, my whole world just kind of broke into pieces,” Jordan said.
Through that season of loss, Bryan remained by Jordan’s side. “To experience such devastating loss, there’s just no words for it,” Jordan reflected. “All there is, is presence. And I had that presence in Bryan. He was there every step of the way.”
For Jordan, who grew up without a father, Bryan’s steady support filled a lasting void. “Bryan made me feel safe,” he said. “From the small things to the big things, he was just always there.”
More Than a Mentor
Today, Jordan is a professional photographer and videographer who channels creativity, compassion, and purpose into his work. He credits much of his success to the stability and encouragement Bryan provided throughout his life.
“It’s hard not to trace it back to all the success I’ve had,” Jordan said. “So much of that ties to having Bryan as my Big Brother.”
For Bryan, the experience has been equally transformative. “Here we are 30 years later,” he said. “He’s no longer just a Little Brother. He’s one of my best friends. It’s changed my life.”
Jordan describes it simply: “Bryan gave me love, loyalty, and support. To feel as deeply into that love, we’re just family now.”
The Power of Showing Up
Jordan and Bryan’s story is a reminder of how one decision to volunteer, to mentor, to show up, can change the trajectory of a young person’s life.
What began as a single mom seeking support for her sons became a lifelong bond rooted in trust, love, and shared growth.
That’s the power of Big Brothers Big Sisters: creating meaningful one-to-one relationships that transform lives not just for Littles but for Bigs and families as well.
When you become a Big, you’re not just helping a young person dream — you’re helping them believe those dreams are possible. Join us in building a future where every young person has someone in their corner.
Become a Big today at InspireBIG.org/become-a-big.
