In Times of Need, We Often Look for Mentors

Shane Gifford, '25 is a member of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas City, an organization dedicated to providing mentorship and role models to young kids who need it. Shane has been involved in the program since his dad passed away from brain cancer. “After my dad passed I was finding myself in need of mentorship, and just someone to hang out with”. Shane has learned and grown into the person he is today through the help of Big Brother Chris.

Many other kids involved with the program have had similar experiences as Shane, the program’s main purpose is to find young boys and girls in need of a role model which is provided in the form of a “big brother” or “big sister”.

Shane’s “big brother” is Chris Moore, who he was matched with just a few years after his father passed. Shane and Chris have been matched for a little over six years now, and both have had an immeasurable impact on each other’s life ever since. In their earlier meetings when Shane was younger, he and Chris would do things like laser tag and play basketball. Since then, Chris and Shane have merged their families - spending time celebrating birthdays, Thanksgiving, and other occasions. 

Despite how simple it may seem, Shane assures that it ends up being so much more in the long term “while it honestly is really simple, it still made a huge difference in my life”.

“He’s taught me how to tie a tie, how to shave, and how to drive as well. It’s honestly like he’s part of the family."

The organization has recognized the duo in many ways, most notably awarding them with the 2024 Big and Little of the Year award, which saw both of them interviewed on The Today Show.

Watch the interview

Shane was also given the pleasure of announcing a first round pick in the 2023 NFL draft, announcing the Atlanta Falcons’ (Chris’ hometown team) selection of University of Texas running back Bijan Robinson as 8th overall pick. Shane says this has been his favorite experience as a member of Big Brothers Big Sisters.

All in all, Shane’s experience with this great organization is an example to all of us here at Aquinas how mentorship can change our lives. As Saints we are called to lead and Shane is a shining example of a true leader.

About the Contributor

Guest contributor, Eli Carter, '25