UpDate - Vol. 12, No. 38, Page 5
August 5, 1993
Three's company for little brother, big brother and son

     The big brother/little brother relationship between Greg Johnson and
Glen Jackson has become a threesome with the addition of a new generation,
Johnson's 2-year-old son, Ryan.
     Johnson is associate director of Conferences & Centers of the Division
of Continuing Education, and Jackson is a service assistant in the
University's mail service.
     The friendship between Jackson and Johnson began 17 years ago when
Johnson was a University of Delaware freshman from New Jersey.
     "At that time, there was a Big Student/Little Student organization on
campus, and I joined, becoming Glen's big brother. The campus group
eventually disbanded, so we became affiliated with the Big Brother
organization, and later continued the relationship on our own.
     "Glen now is a big brother for my son-plays with him on visits and is
his babysitter on occasion," Johnson said.
     Jackson was about 6 when he became Johnson's brother. "I'll never
forget the night I met him. Someone knocked on our door and my mother went
to answer it and there was Greg, who had come to be my big brother," he
said.
     The two engaged in activities planned by Big Brothers, such as a trip
to the zoo, going to football games, a  Halloween party, ice skating and
swimming, and they did things on their own, shooting baskets and "hanging
out."
     "Greg took me to meet his parents and I got to know them and his
brother, Jeff. Greg helped me over some rough times, such as when my
parents were divorced, and has given me encouragement and advice on school
and other things," said Jackson, who has attended Delaware Technical &
Community College and intends to take courses through continuing education
at the University beginning in the fall.
     "I was concerned when he told me that he was getting married, but he
told me he would be there for me, and he has been. Looking back, it's been
a good 17 years for us, " Jackson said.
                                        -Sue Swyers Moncure

Anyone wishing more information about Big Brother-Big Sisters of Delaware
Inc., a member agency of the United Way of Delaware, may call 998-3577 in
Wilmington or 368-0202 in Newark.

The University's United Way campaign begins Oct. 13.