Social Responsibility

Two Delphi employees recognized for community service through mentoring programs in Michigan

Reggie Broussard receives Greater Flint Big Brother of the Year Award; Will Irby Jr. named finalist for 'Outstanding Mentor' award

Delphi's Reggie Broussard, received the Jim Mitchell Big Brother of the Year Award from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Flint, Mich. The award was presented to him in May for his positive impact on the life of a child and his volunteer efforts with the organization.

"Reggie is a role model for his Little Brother Dequontay, as well for others in the community," said Rita Stanley, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Flint. "He has a caring, giving spirit. He is very representative of the agency."

Broussard first met his little brother three years ago, in 2004. Since then, the 11-year-old's grades and self-esteem have improved, according to Stanley. For Broussard, his patience has improved -- and so have his back flips.

"As a big brother it's important to be patient and flexible. Many times I've had events planned with my little little brother and the day of the event my plans had to change," Broussard said. "My little brother is very athletic and has taught many of the kids in my neighborhood how to do back flips on the trampoline. I think I'm the only dad in the neighborhood that can do a back flip and land it on the trampoline."

The pair spends their time participating in a variety of activities, many with Broussard's family. "My little brother is usually involved in family events. We've gone to a Pro Bull Riding event at The Palace of Auburn Hills, and we spend time playing sports like golf, basketball and football."

Broussard, who joined Big Brothers Big Sisters in conjunction with his fraternity's national partnership with the organization, said the award was an unexpected honor. "It's good to be recognized for doing something that I enjoy and that is a benefit to someone else," he said. "I'm not a teacher, a counselor, or Santa Claus -- I'm just a friend."

"There are lots of kids looking for help or just someone to talk to," Broussard continued. "If they don't find positive role models, they will find someone else to fill the gap. Many teachers, coaches and mentors spent many hours with me as I was growing up to help me do well. Now, this is my opportunity to help someone else."

Broussard was nominated for the award by Case Manager Linda Nadir. Delphi Corp. and UAW 651 also received the Friendship Award at the event for sponsoring bowling and holiday parties. Other Delphi employees who have been instrumental to this organization include Mina Cox and Beverly McCall.

Another Delphi employee Will Irby Jr., has been mentoring children for more than 30 years and recently was named a finalist for the "Outstanding Mentor Award" from the Michigan Community Service Commission for his work with teenage boys.

"I've been very lucky to work more than three decades with various mentoring programs and now have spent the last 10 years with Don Bosco Hall in Detroit," Irby said. "I truly believe that our community's strength lies in our youth -- and if we empower their success, they will create their own positive futures."

Throughout his career at Delphi and GM, Irby has spent his personal time mentoring two teenagers a year, along with coaching basketball, tee-ball and baseball in and around Detroit, Oak Park and Troy, Mich. In addition he has helped with the Meals on Wheels program, assisted the Boy Scouts in programs and supported the Focus Hope programs in the Detroit area.

The Michigan Community Service Commission received 180 nominations for awards in eight categories. The Governor Service Awards are presented annually to Michigan residents who "give of their time to help develop thriving communities, neighborhoods and families."

Irby says the key to mentoring is making it fun for the kids he helps.

"My focus is helping kids grow into community driven adults with a focus on career development, academic achievement and educational support," Irby said. "But it sure is easier to get a kid to listen when you are playing sports or attending sporting events, visiting museums, touring car plants or dining out, rather than by sitting him down and telling him what he needs to do."

Irby said the recognition was an honor and he will continue in his role as a mentor to adolescents.

For more information on the commission and on the Governor's Service Awards, visit www.michigan.gov/mcsc.