WICHITA, Kansas, Jan. 24, 2007 - For 13-year-old Loren, every moment spent with his Big Brother, Rich Ridder, is special. Even a simple game of cards is quality time.

"I feel good when I'm around him," Loren said. "I feel like, special."

The emotion and sincerity in Loren's voice when he talks about the difference his Big Brother has made in his life, is moving and filled with a thoughtfulness few 13-year-old boys have attained.

"Someone, who's gonna be there for a long, long time, and someone who's changed my life, besides my grandma," Loren said.

Loren and Rich have been matched for a little more than five years.

Their story is a shining example of the positive impact and success the Big Brothers program can have on both the child and mentor.

"I know I was lucky in the match cause Loren is a wonderful kid," Rich Ridder, Big Brother, said. "And any adult will tell you in the first 30 seconds that he is a wonderful kid."

What started five years ago as a mentorship has become a friendship that will likely last a lifetime.

"Well you're not friends with someone for five years, and you don't just write them off you know," Ridder said.

"I know I will be part of his high school life, plan on being part of his college life," Ridder said. "I hope I am part of his life for the rest of his life."

"It's like another person added onto my family like, a person who is loving, and I can cherish for a long, long time," Loren said. "It's more than just a friendship. It's like love in a little box."

You can learn more about the Big Brothers Big Sisters program by calling 1-888-KS4-BIGS or visit their website at ksbbbs.org.