Big Brother honored
By SAM EGGLESTON, Journal Ishpeming BureauArticle Photos
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Rowe is a Big Brother, mentoring two young boys, Bryce, 12, and Josiah, 9. The LeMaire brothers, both of Negaunee, are reasons Rowe participates in the program as much as he does.
“I’ve already been rewarded,” said Rowe. “Being able to spend time with the boys and go and do things, that’s more than enough of a reward.”
While Rowe isn’t looking for accolades for his mentorship of the LeMaire brothers, other people have come to the conclusion that he deserves more recognition. That’s why Rowe, along with five others, is a finalist for the 2008 Governor’s Service Awards in the category of Mentor of the Year.
According to a press release from Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s office, the award honors an individual who has made a significant difference in a child’s life over time through mentoring.
The finalists will be recognized June 19 at the Fox Theatre in Detroit. The finalists are chosen from nominations throughout the state of Michigan. The event is funded by sponsors like Ford Motor Company, W.K. Kellogg Foundation and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, among others.
“Michigan’s volunteer heroes give (up) their time and talent without thought of praise or recognition,” said Granholm in a prepared statement. “The value of volunteers and their impact on local communities is highlighted by the willingness of Michigan’s corporate leaders to step forward and sponsor this event. We are grateful for the volunteers and the support of our sponsors.”
The nomination alone is something Rowe never expected.
“It’s an honor,” said the Negaunee resident, who is the co-owner of Midtown Bakery Cafe and Antiques. “But I don’t need to win an award. I’m honored I was nominated, but being a part of the life of these kids is enough.”
Rowe said he tries to spend time with the LeMaire brothers each week, though the program he is a part of, Big Brothers Big Sisters, only requires a four-hour commitment per month.
Being a mentor is a relatively new experience for Rowe, 50, who has been doing this for the past several years. He said mentoring has allowed him to experience a part of a life he wouldn’t have experienced otherwise.
“I never had children and Bryce and JoJo are the sons I never had,” Rowe said. “I lost my dad when I was young and I didn’t have a Big Brother to mentor me, neither did my brother. We grew up without a father as well, and I’d hate to see two little boys like this do the same when I can be there for them.”
Rowe said he hopes his nomination will help get the word out about the importance of being a mentor. He said that Big Brothers Big Sisters is always looking for volunteers, especially men who would be interested in mentoring boys in need of proper role models.
“It’s a great thing to be a part of,” Rowe said. “I hope more people get involved. There are a lot of young boys, especially up here, that need them.”
In addition to Rowe’s nomination, the Medical Care Access Coalition of Marquette is a finalist for the Oustanding Volunteer Program Award, which acknowledges the importance an organization or club makes in community life.
