Adrian felt like he was missing something in his life. He felt “bored” with “too much time on his hands”. He knew he could do something constructive with that time, and he knew he wanted to make a difference. What he didn’t know, was just how fulfilling being a mentor would be.

“We discovered during my initial visit that we could talk about anything. From video games to TV shows, we quickly learned how much we had in common,” Adrian said.

The two of them love every moment they spend together. Whether it’s going to the water park, driving to the everglades to gaze at the stars or just staying home playing video games, there’s no place greater than in each other’s company.

“I get along with Joshua much more than I do with most people my age. Sounds weird, I know! But it works for us,” Adrian said.

Joshua has autism. So what might be easy for some, can be a bit more challenging for him. But with successful occupational and speech therapy, he’s really excelling. In fact, he seemed to be breaking out of his shell too. He wasn’t shy around Adrian as he often would be. He was very comfortable with their friendship from the start. He not only enjoys the fun they have together, but he truly appreciates Adrian’s endless life advice.

“I love him just the way he is and I love Adrian’s family. He even considers my Mom, his adopted Mom. We are brothers for life,” Joshua said.

The last four years have flown by for Joshua and Adrian! But they still get the same excitement and joy out of their outings. Adrian enjoys watching Joshua grow and learn and can’t wait to see what his future holds.

“I may have joined because I was bored, but what I have gotten in return is so much more than boredom. It’s pure joy to be a Big to a little by the name of Joshua,” Adrian said.

Adrian was nominated for Big of the Year 2015