Mike Stoll and his Little Brother Donovan have a routine. Before they hit the playground, they stop at McDonald's, where Donovan piles so much Parmesan cheese on his burger it looks like a snow-covered hill.

It's a small thing. But after two years together through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Butler County, Stoll knows those small things matter.

The problem: 149 children across Butler County are waiting for a mentor match, the organization reported Wednesday, July 16. Some boys have been on the list nearly two years. The nonprofit says it doesn't have enough male volunteers.

The countywide figure includes 39 children in Middletown. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Butler County serves all of Butler County, including the West Chester and Liberty Township communities.

"A lot of the children we serve have been through a lot of trauma. They've had people come and go in their life," said Scott Stephens, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Butler County. "Having somebody show up in your life consistently that you can count on makes a difference."

Stephens said mentoring doesn't require elaborate trips or big spending. It requires consistency.

Stoll, a senior director of supply chain in his 60s, first volunteered as a Big Brother in his early 20s. Decades later, he signed up again. He and Donovan spend their time exploring parks, racing through playgrounds, crawling through caves and launching model rockets.

Donovan describes every outing the same way: "The best day ever."

Stoll said the relationship has been just as meaningful for him, adding that age is no barrier to volunteering.

How to sign up

Butler County residents interested in becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister can apply online at bbbsbutler.org, call (513) 867-1227, text (513) 857-1491, or email [email protected]. The organization accepts applications on a rolling basis.

The process includes providing three references, an in-person interview, a background check, and annual proof of auto insurance.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Butler County, founded in 1968, is the local affiliate of the nation's largest mentoring organization. West Chester and Liberty Township residents who can commit time to a young person can start the process at bbbsbutler.org.