Sixteen years ago, an 11-year-old Daniel Mayer eagerly awaited his match through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County. At the same time, Richard Burke, a local entrepreneur, was navigating life after a difficult divorce that distanced him from his own children. Seeking a way to channel his parental love and make a positive impact, Richard’s therapist suggested he become a mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters.
“I had so much love to give, and with my own kids not around, I still wanted the chance to help guide someone,” Richard reflects on his decision made in 2006. During the matching process, Richard was asked what kind of Little Brother he wanted.
“I didn’t know I was ‘shopping,’” he laughs. “I didn’t care about his age or race; I just wanted someone nearby so I could spend more time with him than in traffic. Oh, and I said, ‘Give me the smartest one you’ve got.’”
That’s how Richard and Daniel became Big and Little Brothers.
Fast forward to today: Daniel is now 27, and their bond has only grown stronger. He’s now working alongside Richard in his latest business venture, PopRak. After a stint in the commercial vehicle division at Mercedes-Benz, Richard recognized a challenge facing adventure van enthusiasts: the moment you add a bed, space becomes limited. After parting ways with Mercedes-Benz, he set out to solve this problem, creating the PopRak, a rooftop sleeper system that transforms large vans by adding an expansive loft bedroom with easy interior access. As the business gained traction, Richard needed help, and Daniel turned out to be the perfect partner.
“Richard made a huge difference in my life,” shares Daniel. “He’s been someone I’ve been able to count on through the years for advice whenever I’ve asked, knowing he’d steer me right. He has been a great mentor, role model and friend. I’m so glad we were matched all those years ago and have stayed close since. Working together today building PopRak has just been another blessing for us both.”
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County continues to match youth with mentors, fostering lifelong bonds like the one between Richard and Daniel.
“The program thrives because it connects people through shared passions,” says Danica Selvaggio, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County. “Richard has been a dedicated advocate for our mission, serving on our board for 16 years, including 5 as president. His commitment inspires others to get involved, and we’ve seen businesses benefit when their employees are engaged in mentoring.”
“When I looked into helping a young man by becoming a Big Brother, I had no idea how much it would benefit me,” Richard shares. “The whole experience has been so fulfilling. As a long-term board member, I’ve seen the organization’s positive impact on so many mentors and mentees. I hope more people check it out and find out what I’m talking about!”
Richard and Daniel enjoy sharing their passion for adventure vans at the PopRak booth at Adventure Van Expo events throughout the region. Find event dates and details at AdventureVanExpo.com.
To learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ventura County, visit BBSVC.org or contact Danica Selvaggio and her team at 805.484.2282.
“Richard made a huge difference in my life. He’s been someone I’ve been able to count on through the years for advice whenever I’ve asked, knowing he’d steer me right."