Mr Lazaroo, who previously worked as an accountant, joined the programme around a year ago and found the work very fulfilling. The job satisfaction he found in mentoring young people prompted him to give up his career and begin a teaching degree. He said:
"Within the first month of becoming a big brother I realised I really enjoyed working with young people. I quit my job and haven't looked back."
Mr Lazaroo's ‘little brother’ is Diesel Harris from Maddington. They usually meet once a week to undertake some volunteer work, catch a movie or play sport. Brendon originally joined the programme because he became aware that not everyone has the kind of supportive friends and family that he enjoys. He has also found that providing support to Diesel has been of help in his own life.
The Big Brothers Big Sisters programme recently obtained a grant of $2,500 from Woodside. Donna Hamilton, the programme's mentoring manager, says that the money will go towards recruiting, screening and training mentors. She explained:
"To make a real impact we need more male mentors, as well as on-going donations and funding to enable us to continue the work we are doing in the community.”