Community Corner

Cary Resident Wins 'Illinois Big Brother of The Year' Award

Bob Evans has been dedicated to making an impact on the community for many years.

A mentor in one’s life is essential to succeeding and living up to all of your potential. Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County has a provided many opportunities for young people by being part of their lives.

Since 1994, the organization says it “has operated under the belief that inherent in every child has the ability to succeed and thrive in life.”

According to a Big Brothers Big Sisters McHenry county press release, in 2010, 558 children in McHenry County reaped the benefits of having a Big Brother or Big Sister.

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Illinois Big Brother of the year, Bob Evans, is a resident of Cary and a long-term mentor.

Robyn Ostrem, Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County Executive Director, said Evan’s “Volunteer service exemplifies how Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring model, which includes ongoing support for our ‘Bigs,’ ‘Littles’ and their families, improves the odds for children to succeed in and out of school.”

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There was a statewide panel of judges who selected the ‘Illinois Big Brother of the Year’ and applications were submitted by Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies throughout Illinois.

Evans is a father of three grown children was looking for an opportunity to give back to the community when he enrolled into the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. 

He wanted to do something for someone else and make a local impact.

Evans met his ‘Little Brother,’ Cole, 11 years ago in the mentoring program.

The press released said “Cole was being raised by his mom with no male role model.” He was earning for male companionship.  

Evans said in the news release, “The first time I met Cole, I was nervous but we immediately hit it off. He was such a fun loving kid.  Together over the years we have enjoyed movies, museums and attending sporting events. I’ve enjoyed the privilege of watching Cole grow up.”

Cole’s mother attributes a lot of who Cole is today to Evan’s positive influence.

As stated in the press release she said, “Bob has provided Cole positive reinforcement and stability the past 11 years.  Bob is instrumental in Cole’s desire to further his education.  I am so thankful that Bob has been such a big part of my son’s life.” 

Cole states in release that ‘Big Brother Little Brother’ experience has been incredibly positive for him. “Bob has been a strong male role model and walked along side of me.  He has changed the course of my life and kept me on a straight path. I hope I’m like Bob when I get older. He is the greatest guy I know,” he said.

“Volunteers like Bob are an inspiration, and I hope it encourages others to participate in Big Brothers Big Sisters,” said Dana Briscoe, Director of Programs for Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County who has managed Evans match through the ten years.

For more information on donating or volunteering, visit www.bbbsmchenry.org


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