This year, Big Brothers Big Sisters South Durham and Northumberland is celebrating 50 years of mentorship. For five decades, stories like Karol Shaw’s have reminded us of the incredible, lasting difference one caring adult can make in the life of a young person.

Karol’s impact went beyond mentoring. He served twice on our Board of Directors—first as Treasurer, later as President—while building a successful accounting firm and giving back to many community causes. His legacy is a true testament to the power of mentorship.

A Life Changed — and a Life of Changing Others

For over 15 years, Karol Shaw was a dedicated force within Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northumberland. His journey began in 1980 at the Cobourg Home Show, when he met then-Executive Director Harrison Milne at the Big Brothers booth.

The mission struck a deep chord. “My father died when I was 4 and I grew up without a father,” Karol shared. “This sounds like something I’d love to do—once I finish my Chartered Accountant exams.”

Two years later, he did exactly that. Exams finished on a Friday, and by Monday Karol was ready to become a Big Brother.

His first match was with Larry, a bright young boy with endless energy. Together, they bowled, played road hockey, and shot hoops until Larry “graduated” from the program at 16. Karol thought he might take a break. But then, at an Ontario Science Centre event, he met Gregory, a 9-year-old who loved chess, sports, and learning. Their connection was instant, and Karol once again stepped forward to be a Big Brother.

What It Meant to Be a Little – For Gregory, the impact was life-changing.

“As a little kid, having a Big Brother meant adventure. Not necessarily some far-flung expedition, but something new, something to look forward to. Each month my mom would put the Big Brother calendar on the fridge, and there was always something exciting with the whole community of Bigs and Littles.”

But his strongest memories weren’t the big outings—they were the small, everyday moments.

“With Karol, we’d play chess, cards, or guitar. We’d make a sandwich and watch a movie. We’d go for a bike ride or take one of his classic cars to get ice cream at the beach. It wasn’t about big flashy activities. It was just time together, talking about life and the world.”

One day stands out especially:

“One freezing winter afternoon, we went skating on the pond at Karol’s family dairy farm. We played hockey on the ice, visited the cows in the barn, and had warm sandwiches and soup in the farmhouse. It was such a classic, wholesome Canadian Saturday. I really cherish that memory.”

Lessons That Last a Lifetime

Karol gave Gregory more than good memories—he gave him lessons that shaped his future.

“He encouraged me to take a path less traveled, to think like an entrepreneur, and to look for opportunities. He taught me integrity, perseverance, and honesty. When I’m facing a hard decision, I still often think: ‘What would Karol say or do here?’”

Gregory reflects:

“I can’t overstate how important Karol’s influence has been for me. We’ve been friends now for 35 years. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it were not for his steady, kind influence. And I’m ever so grateful to still have him in my life.”

Read the story of Heidy Vermeulen, Gregory’s mother on our website to see the impact Karol and Big Brothers Big Sister had for her and her family. durhamnorthumberland.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/story/