Rich Ridder,
A Hero In Our Midst

Making a difference in this world often begins with a single stroke. So learned a young Rich Ridder as he observed the importance of community service from a particularly special influence – his father. As a boy, Ridder watched his father paint houses for disadvantaged elderly for free, and committed that like his father, he would find his own way to make a difference.

Five years ago, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Sedgwick County paired Ridder, 32, with then nine-year-old Loren. "Rich is my hero because he has turned my life around," Loren said. In addition to fishing, camping, and playing sports, Ridder often helps Loren with his homework. "In school, he sits down to help Loren and shows him an easier way to make it work," said Kristina Blanck, the pair's case manager at Big Brothers Big Sisters. "Not only do they have fun, but they work, and Loren really appreciates that." Since being matched with Ridder, Loren has dramatically improved his grades.

"He is teaching Loren more than day to day things," said Loren's grandmother and guardian. "He teaches him life lessons and shows him a better way to live. Rich is really special, real family. There is not a decision made about Loren without talking to Rich."

Ridder has not only welcomed Loren into his family but also into his home, where Loren has his own room. "Rich is such a good person," said Loren. "He has always wanted me to help people. He has always led me on the right path. He always said you can do anything if you put your mind to it."

As Loren has become more involved in team sports, Ridder has encouraged Loren's dedication and team spirit. "Even when Rich broke his leg," recalled Blanck, "he still went to Loren's football games and was hobbling on the sidelines with his crutches. [Loren's grandmother] told him that he should sit down, but Rich said Loren might need him yelling for him where he could be heard."

Now, in addition to spending at least one day a week with Loren, Ridder volunteers with the "Pass It On" recreation program for at-risk kids who have not been matched with mentors.

Despite the impact Ridder has made on Loren's life, Ridder still believes he has benefited most from their friendship. "The older I get, the more I realize that you just have to give back… it makes you feel good."

Now, according to Ridder, Big Brothers Big Sisters did not match him with a friend or a mentee, "I got a family member out of it," proving that some of the best pictures in life are those we paint for ourselves.

To honor Ridder's commitment to Loren and to other young people in the Wichita area, please send cards to:

Rich Ridder
c/o Big Brothers Big Sisters of Sedgwick County
310 East Second Street
Wichita, Kansas 67201