Tulsa Firefighter Mentors to the Max
Mayor Bartlett's Mentoring to the Max initiative is making a
notable difference in our children's lives. On April 18, Tulsa
firefighter, Tim Morris and his mentee, Alex, were featured on
Channel 6 alongside Victoria Bartlett, spokesperson for the Mayor's
Mentoring to the Max initiative, to talk about the importance of
mentoring.
Tim Morris, a long-time Tulsa firefighter, joined Big Brothers,
Big Sisters of Oklahoma nine years ago. The organization matched
him with Alex, a shy eight-year-old who needed a caring male role
model in his life. Through the years Tim and Alex have forged a
deep friendship by spending time together at little league games,
fishing, watching movies, and hanging out together on the
weekends.
"One of the biggest days for us was when I was selected Oklahoma
Big Brother of the Year for 2007. Alex and I were recognized at the
State Capitol Building and Miss Oklahoma introduced us to the House
of Representatives. It was a great moment for both of us," said
Morris. "Alex will be turning 18 next year, so we're hoping to
attend a lot of functions and give out as much information as
possible to help all those littles out there who need a big brother
or big sister."
Alex said, "Tim has given me opportunities to do things I
normally couldn't have done. We've had a lot of fun together. I
recommend the mentoring program for kids and adults alike. It can
really be a fun experience for everyone involved."
Victoria Bartlett, who spearheads the Mayor's Mentoring to the
Max added, "Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma is a great
Mentoring to the Max partner. We're very proud of our firefighters
and pleased they are out mentoring in our community."
"There are a lot of children who want to have an adult involved
in their lives. And the rewards are unbelievable. It doesn't have
to be financial. Just give your time and spend it with a child,"
Bartlett said.
Tulsans who are interested in sharing their gifts and passion to
enhance a child's life and education can call 2-1-1. For more
details on the Mayor's Mentoring to the Max initiative, visit the
City's Web site: www.mentoringtulsa.org or contact Pam Listar,
Communications Department - plistar@cityoftulsa.org, (918)
596-2689.
