For Josh, a construction engineering student at Marquette University, the journey to becoming a Big Brother wasn’t driven by a single defining moment, but rather by a childhood longing that many can relate to. As an only child who always wanted a younger sibling, Josh found his path to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee through a desire that had quietly shaped his life for years.
Growing up in Wisconsin, Josh’s early years were marked by significant transitions. Born in Milwaukee, he moved to Green Bay before his first birthday, establishing roots that would later be tested when his parents divorced. The move from Green Bay’s west side to the east side during his childhood created an unexpected obstacle—while he could still attend the same school and see his friends, the physical distance left him feeling isolated and disconnected from his peer group.
These early experiences of separation and longing for connection would eventually guide Josh toward one of the most meaningful relationships of his life. Today, as a senior studying construction engineering at Marquette, Josh balances his academic pursuits with a co-op position at raSmith in the municipal division, where he’s building practical work experience while keeping his future career options open.
Despite a packed schedule that includes engineering coursework, performing in the Marquette pep band, and his professional responsibilities, Josh has found time for what matters most to him: giving back. His philosophy on giving runs deep—he genuinely prefers giving to receiving, finding that acts of generosity provide him with an internal satisfaction that material gifts cannot match.
This giving spirit manifests most clearly in his role as a Big Brother to Nathan, his Little through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Milwaukee. Their relationship centers around active, competitive engagement—whether they’re outside playing basketball or football, or inside locked in intense board game battles. What started as a mentorship has evolved into something much more profound.
“I truly think our relationship has surpassed mentor and mentee,” Josh reflects. “I think of him as a little brother now and his family has welcomed me in, and for that I’m truly grateful.” This transformation from volunteer to family member represents the kind of authentic connection that Big Brothers Big Sisters strives to foster, but that doesn’t always develop so naturally.
Through his relationship with Nathan, Josh has discovered what it truly means to be a big brother. He’s learned to care, watch over, give advice, and engage competitively—all the hallmarks of genuine sibling relationships. The experience has been so transformative that Josh considers it irreplaceable, something he “wouldn’t trade for anything.”
Josh’s connection to Milwaukee runs deep, rooted in family traditions and childhood memories of excited trips from Green Bay to visit relatives and enjoy Kopp’s frozen custard—a family staple that represents the warmth of homecoming. This sense of home and family extends to his broader vision for the community.
His hopes for Milwaukee reflect the same values that drive his work with Big Brothers Big Sisters: “I just want love and peace for everyone. There’s enough hate and sadness in this world. I just want people to come together to care and love one another.” While he acknowledges this vision requires time and dedication, it’s a goal worth pursuing.
Looking ahead, Josh envisions his relationship with Nathan and his family as permanent. Even after graduation, he plans to maintain their bond, continuing to be there for Nathan—including those gentle reminders about homework. In finding the little brother he always wanted, Josh has discovered that the most meaningful relationships often develop when we open our hearts to giving without expecting anything in return.