Nathan Cross and Syrus Swanson are brothers, but they aren't related. Nathan is acting as a "Big Brother" to Syrus as part of the group Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Central Texas.
"He is very nice and a good friend. It's fun to talk to him," Syrus said about his "brother."
Whether it's a trip to the beach or playing a game of baseball, these two say they learn by spending time together.
"We try to work on school and how he can improve his behavior, his grades, his etiquette, how to act around a woman and things like that," Cross said.
"If I do anything wrong he says no and he tries to train me," Syrus said.
Big Brothers Big sisters set up the match after Syrus' dad passed away. Syrus has two sisters who also have mentors that have helped them through some tough times.
"He sees the things that Nathan is doing and he wants to do them," mother Patricia Swanson said.
On Saturday, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas held their annual Hobie Day at Bob Wentz State park on Lake Travis.
Members of the program, parents and volunteers got together for a day of fun in the sun and sailboating.
Syrus' mom took the opportunity to thank Nathan for the difference she's seen in her son.
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Mentoring youth
Big Brothers, Big Sisters held a get-together on Saturday for mentors and youth.
 
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"He's a lot happier. They come back after having a good time just smiling. He see the things Nathan's doing and he wants to do them...it gives them somebody else to talk to if they're not comfortable talking to me," Patricia said.
Right now the program needs more help from men like Nathan.
"Of course we'll take female mentors, but male mentors and especially African American and Hispanic male mentors we need too," Melanie Chasteen of Big Brothers Big Sisters said.
Nathan says learning to be a good role-model is preparing him to be a good parent...he's proud of Syrus.
"He's doing much better in school, he even opens doors for ladies. I love to see that," Cross said.
He hopes other men will take the opportunity to build this kind of friendship.
"I think it makes a big difference in the kids' life and it's really a rewarding thing for the Big brothers and Big Sisters too. It lets us get out there and see some of Austin, but also serve in a nice role for kids," Cross said.
A friendship that will give kids smoother sailing on a journey towards adulthood.
