Every Big Buddy match begins with a simple hope: that turning up for a young person might make a difference. For John and Cruz, that hope grew into something extraordinary a decade of friendship grounded in trust, shared experiences, and unwavering support.
Today, their story stands as a powerful example of what can happen when a mentor simply keeps showing up.
A Natural Beginning
John and Cruz met when Cruz was around 10 or 11 years old. From the outset, something clicked. There was no awkward phase, no forced conversation—just an easy, natural connection that set the tone for everything that followed.
“From word go, we always came up with something to do together,” John recalls.
Their weekly catch-ups quickly became a rhythm. Whether it was ten-pin bowling, working on hands-on projects, or spending time “on the end of a hammer,” they built a relationship through doing—side by side, week by week.
Over time, those moments added up to much more than just activities. They built trust.
A Safe Place to Grow
For Cruz, having a consistent male role model made a lasting impact. John became someone he could talk to openly—a steady presence who listened, encouraged, and helped him navigate challenges.
“It changed my whole perspective and built a strong foundation for me to start from,” Cruz says.
“Having that kind of encouragement and knowing I can speak to John about anything—opening up boundaries and finding solutions.”
John didn’t just step into the role of mentor—he became part of Cruz’s wider world. Cruz formed a close bond with John’s daughter, and over time, the connection extended beyond their weekly meet-ups.
“They keep in touch a lot,” John says, smiling.
Growing Into the Future
Today, Cruz is 21 and thriving. He’s a qualified electrical mechanic working on the line from Auckland City to Te Hana. He’s in a long-term relationship and is now a proud dad to a one-year-old boy.
For John, watching Cruz grow into the man he is today has been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.
“He’s turned into a fine young man with a family and a job,” John says.
“Doesn’t mind hard work—young and fit. I’m quietly pleased,” he adds with a laugh.
A Mutual Impact
Like many Big Buddy mentors, John has a strong sense of purpose and commitment. Recently, he cycled the length of New Zealand to raise funds and awareness for neurodivergent children—another example of the kind of dedication he brings to everything he does.
But for both John and Cruz, it’s clear that the relationship has been mutually meaningful. What began as a mentoring match has become a lifelong connection—one that continues to shape both of their lives.
The Power of Showing Up
For Cruz, the value of Big Buddy is simple—and powerful.
“I would 100% recommend Big Buddy to other young people out there. It creates a safe place for encouragement and support.”
His words reflect what so many Big Buddy matches demonstrate: that consistent, caring relationships can change the course of a young person’s life.
And sometimes, like John and Cruz, those relationships don’t just last a year or two—they last a lifetime.
Because sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do… is just keep showing up.
