WARSAW — It was standing room only at Champagne Jam Wednesday evening for the Second Annual The Big Celebration, a benefit for Big Brothers Big Sisters Serving Kosciusko County. Approximately 220 people of all ages and walks of life attended the evening.

Kevin Deardorff read a resolution written by the chief executive director of Lake City Bank regarding Charlie Smith.

While Maurice Clarett, former Ohio State University NCAA Champion, who resides in Columbus, Ohio, was the featured speaker sharing his personal story of tragedy and triumph, guests heard the story from local Big Brother, Mike and Little Brother, Jeremy, who were matched over seven years ago and the differences the match has made in their lives.

The Charlie Smith Award was presented to Ann Smith, widow of Charlie Smith, as a silent partner in his commitment to enriching the lives of others. Josette Rider, executive director of BBBS for 16 years, stated on her very first day on the job she was asked to speak at the Warsaw Noon Rotary and sat next to “the most lovely person, Charlie Smith.” Nervous about her presentation, she remembered connecting with Smith over a story she told him and he became teary eyed. “One thing I loved about Charlie, whenever I would speak, if he was in the room we would connect. He would tell me stories about his grandma, his childhood, about he believed in young people.”

Ann Smith, widow of Charlie Smith, accepts the Charlie Smith award from Josette Rider.

Kevin Deardorff, executive vice president Lake City Bank, also made a special presentation. Deardorff knew Smith for over 42 years as a coach, a co-worker for over 25 years and a dear friend. He read a resolution written by the banks chief executive officer. It noted Smith’s commitment to the bank, enthusiasm, dedication and drive, giving unselfishly of his energy and time, his leadership, motivational and decisive coaching, mentoring, energetic and communication skills.

Rider noted when meeting Smith in 1999, there were 26 matches in the community, “Charlie was always so kind, always willing to help, the 26 matches have turned into over 200 matches this year.”

A Story Of A Match

Big Brother Mike and Little Brother Jeremy talk of their years as a match.

A video was shown of the match between Mike and Jeremy, followed by both speaking to the crowd. The pair have been matched since 2005. Jeremy is now 18, a senior at Tippecanoe Valley and plans on being a Big Brother himself, as he knows what it is like to be alone.

They shared of their experiences and the day Jeremy’s life changed forever, at the age of 13. His mother had passed away and he attempted to take his own life. But Mike, then single, was unknowingly there for him, calling at the right moment. Jeremy credits being alive today to his Big Brother making his life brighter. “He made an impact on my life, literally saved my life,” said Jeremy.

Jeremy shared experiences the two shared – getting involved in football and attending Colts games, being lost after his mother died, finding legal guardians instead of bouncing from home to home. Jeremy stated Mike was the “first father figure I ever knew. I love you Mike.”

Mike, stated he never knew until the video was made about Jeremy’s suicide attempt. With a family of his own, Mike and Jeremy continue to spend time together. He never intended to do anything more than to be a positive roll model.