WICHITA, Kansas, January 7, 2008 -- To ring in the new year, Leon Smitherman introduces us to a brother and sister, both looking for "Big's".

For 10-year-old Kiana and her 12-year-old brother, Dustin, the new year begins in a new home in a new state. They recently moved to Kansas and they hope to find here what they had to leave behind in Connecticut.

"I like to work with animals," said Kiana. "Totally. No matter what it is, it's fun."

Like his sister, Dustin enjoys animals and the outdoors.

"I would like a big brother who likes hunting and fishing and likes outdoors and respects the nature," said Dustin.

And when he says respect nature, he means it. Whether it's at the fishing hole on the street...

"Catch and release, catch and release. See garbage on the ground, pick it up. Take care of your environment."

So who taught him that?

"My grandma. I learned the best from the best."

Dustin has been lucky enough to have a mentor in his life. Now he, like thousands of other kids, is hoping to continue that learning.

So what's your New Year's resolution? Maybe loose a little weight? Stop smoking? Maybe be a little more frugal with your credit cards? How about this for a resolution; how about becoming a Big Brother -- help a young person realize their potential. Who knows, maybe you'll feel so good about yourself you'll lose a little weight in the long run.

To learn more about the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, give them at call at 888-KS-4BIGS or visit their website at http://www.kansasbigs.org/.