Big Brother Mark Waldick plays a game of “Connect Four” with his Little Brother Landon.

Melissa Weaver, a program specialist who directs the school-based program in Putnam County, says the mentors must go through a selection process.

“We have a school-based program and a community-based program and it’s open to any high school student or any community member who is 18 or older,” she said. “You have to have references and applications need to be filled out, that way we can ensure that we get outstanding Bigs who make good role-models.”

Whether it’s the community or school portion, the Littles are guaranteed four hours of quality time with their Bigs a month at  a minimum.