Bill Chiaffino was named Big Brother of the Year for Island County at the first annual Big Brother/Big Sister Volunteer Recognition Awards ceremony at the Oak Harbor (Washington) Elks Lodge.
Chiaffino, a 1994 Sweet Home High School graduate, was recognized for his exceptional involvement, consistency and dedication to 9-year-old Destin Jackson.
Destin, who lives with his grandmother, twin sister Desire, older sister Destiny and three-year-old brother Daniel, was matched with Chiaffino almost a year ago. He makes it a point to occasionally include the other kids in their outings, as well as help out Grandma Gwen, who doesn’t drive, with shopping and errands for her big family.
“We’re a couple of shy guys, so it was pretty quiet the first couple of times we got together,” Chiaffino told the gathering of families and volunteers, adding that their common interest in sports and music helped him and Destin bond.
“We’ve gone to some games in Seattle, played racquet ball at the (Navy) base gym, got together for movies and pizza at my place. Sometimes we just hang out and play video games, but I’m getting bored with that. I’m tired of losing,” Chiaffino said, smiling down at Destin.
Recalling his own experience growing up in a single parent family, Chiaffino said that his mother knew the importance of having good male role models around for her sons. Now he’s happy to do the same for Destin.
“When I came to Whidbey Island Naval Air Station 18 months ago I saw there was a lot for a single guy to do in this area, but I wanted to do something that made a difference. That’s how I got involved in Big Brothers.
Destin’s a great kid. I’m lucky to have him in my life.
“My tour here will be up in November and I’ll be eligible to get out of the military if I choose to at that time,” said Chiaffino, a Navy air traffic controller. “It will be hard to leave Destin. Who knows? I may have to sign up for another three years.”