Big Brunch Honoree William Gittler
JBBBS is thrilled to honor four incredible JBBBS volunteers with the Chaverut Award at this year’s Big Brunch on October 26. These four volunteers truly exemplify the word chaverut which is Hebrew for friendship.
William Gittler is one of this year’s honorees and we had the pleasure to recently ask him a few questions about his volunteer experience.
Why did you decide to first volunteer with JBBBS?
When I was 57, during family conversations, I realized that some of my most meaningful life experiences came from coaching my two daughters’ soccer teams. Years later, I’d run into kids I had coached and they would tell me how much they loved being part of the team. Even more, they said they carried lessons about character and life that they picked up from me. This reinforced my desire to keep giving back in a similar way. After a little research, I found JBBBS, which had the structure and support to make it possible. It felt like the perfect fit in both my personal and professional life. And the rest is history!
What is your favorite thing about volunteering with JBBBS?
What I love most is how much both Mark and I have gotten out of this experience. Over 14 years together, we’ve shared so many activities and milestones. The regular check-ins with our match specialists have been a great support system – they gave me a chance to reflect and helped strengthen our match.
What are your favorite activities to do with your match?
Honestly, the conversations we’ve had are the highlight – no matter what we’re doing. But some of our favorite activities include attending Boston sports games (we even got down on the parquet floor to shoot hoops at a Celtics game!), and being “tourists” skating on the Frog Pond, riding the Duck Boats, seeing Blue Man Group, attending concerts and visiting the Museum of Science and Franklin Park Zoo. There are so many smaller but meaningful moments, too – sharing meals, talking, debating and getting to know each other!
What is your favorite memory of your JBBBS volunteer experience?
One of the best memories was seeing Mark’s joy and awe when I won tickets to see Usher and we even got to meet him backstage! Mark still says it’s a memory that will last forever, and I have to agree!
What have you learned from volunteering with JBBBS?
I’ve learned never to underestimate the impact a match can have – not just on you and your Little, but on the people around you as well. Mark and I have both grown through this experience, and the ripple effect has touched his family and mine, along with friends on both sides.
What are three words you would use to describe your JBBBS volunteer experience?
Fulfilling, joyful, unique.
What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering with JBBBS?
Be open and honest through the process, ask questions, and make sure you understand what’s involved. Know that you’re going to make a difference. And remember, the JBBBS team is there for you the whole way. They’ll help you work through any bumps along the road. Once you’re ready, just go for it! The benefits you’ll give and receive are incredible.
Do you have advice for someone who is just starting out their volunteer journey with JBBBS?
Yes—keep an open mind, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice when you need it. Take advantage of the JBBBS group activities when you can. Trust that you were chosen for a reason, and that you bring something valuable to your match. Connect with other Bigs, learn from what they’re doing, and before long, you’ll see just how much of a difference you’re making.