Dedication of ‘Big Brother’ Recognized

Eric Ruiz thinks big when it comes to his future. The Monroe High School junior drops words such as “college,” “pediatrician” and “architect” into the conversation the way most teenage boys talk about girlfriends and cars.

When the slightly built 17-year-old brings up the subject of his Big Brother, Jay Fondevila, it’s easy to understand why he’s so passionate about succeeding.

“I don’t know what I would have done in my life without Jay,” the wide-eyed teenager said recently. “He’s a brother and a father all rolled into one. My gift back to him is that I will do good in life.”

Fondevila, on hearing this declaration, breaks into a wide grin and nods his head.

“I’ve loved watching Eric grow and change,” said the 1999 Big Brother of the Year. “His whole demeanor is different now; he possesses a presence.”

The 47-year-old architect, a Sylmar resident, recalled his first meeting with Eric four years ago. The shy adolescent didn’t know at first what to say to the man who would help guide his future.

“I had read a self-profile Eric wrote and was moved,” the married father of two said. “We walked around a park and talked and really liked each other. I knew then we’d be good together.”

They must be. Every Saturday, Eric accompanies Fondevila to his architectural firm in Santa Monica, where the young man hones his computer skills and helps his mentor with whatever task needs to be done.

On a recent Saturday morning, Eric walked around Fondevila’s office, pointing out where different jobs are performed and using terminology that was foreign to him only a couple of years ago.

“I didn’t know how to relate man-to-man before I met Jay,” said Eric, who lives with his mother in Arleta. “Jay’s even better than a father. I can tell him everything.”

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Fondevila, a native of Spain who grew up in Argentina, said he joined the Big Brothers of Greater Los Angeles four years ago because he wanted to dedicate his time to fatherless children who didn’t have the advantages his children enjoyed.

Fondevila said that when he was young, his parents worked long hours in the family-owned business. They were often unavailable to help him with his homework or to talk to him.

“With all the peer pressure out there today, I don’t know how kids make it through the day,” Fondevila said. “I’m glad Eric has someone to talk to.”

Three years ago, Fondevila--a member of the Big Brothers board of directors--created a business mentoring program at his architectural firm. Meeting once a week for two months, volunteers help about a dozen 9- to 13-year-olds design and build small-scale projects, such as a new Disneyland attraction.

Last year, 15 members of Fondevila’s firm participated in the mentoring program that allows underprivileged youths to interact with successful adults.

“Jay has created one of the greatest programs I’ve ever seen,” said Big Brothers’ Executive Director Keith Padgett. “Whenever I need anything, I call him and it’s done. He’s a guy who cares about kids.”

Back at the firm, Eric and Fondevila discussed their afternoon plans. A movie and a meal topped the list of activities. Through the years, Eric has joined the Fondevila family on camping trips and holiday dinners.

“Jay is smart and caring and I value his advice,” Eric said. “He’s a great role model, and I thank him for that.”