LEE’S SUMMIT, Mo. (KCTV) – On Tuesday, a Chiefs star helped spread some Christmas cheer. Cornerback Trent McDuffie surprised those participating in a Big Brothers Big Sisters shopping trip at JCPenny in Lee’s Summit.

“It’s something that I kind of relate to and have been a part of,” said McDuffie. “When I heard about JCPenny teaming up with Big Brothers Big Sisters, it just made sense for me. Something during the holidays, getting to come and shop with these kids. I said this sounds like so much fun, let me go do it.”

The cornerback took photos with the kids – called “Littles” – and their mentors – called ‘Bigs” – before the groups went shopping. Each kid got a $100 JCPenny gift card. KCTV spoke to “Big” Kim Hammeke and her “Little” Abi Ryan before they set out shopping.

“I’ve been involved since January,” said Hammeke. “I just had a little spare time on my hands and wanted to give back. I’m passionate about youth mentorship. I was matched with Abby in late January/early February and it’s been the best experience ever.”

Both meet every week, saying they’ve been able to do lots of fun things these past few months.

“Our favorite place is Jose Peppers,” said Hammeke. “We’ve done a whole myriad of things from painting figurines to making candles to just spending time and talking. Just having fun with each other.”

Ryan says after seeing her mom be part of Big Brothers Big Sisters, she knew she wanted to try it out as well.

“It’s been really good,” said Ryan. “I really like hanging out with somebody and I made a new friend. I would say definitely try it out, especially in your teen years.”

Hammeke says she surprised Ryan with the shopping trip and ended up being surprised herself seeing a Chiefs player.

“He’s a good guy, good player,” said Hammeke. “I am thrilled he is here to support Big Brothers Big Sisters”.

It’s a program McDuffie knows well; he watched his father do the program and knew he wanted to do the same, still remembering his “Big’s” name.

“Deshaun,” said McDuffie. “He was 2 years older than me. I remember we would go to the movies; he would come over and we would play in the backyard, football and basketball and all this stuff. Nothing but enjoyable memories with Big Brothers Big Sisters.”

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He and Hammeke encourage others to look into being part of the program. Hammeke said she brought in someone from the organization to talk about it to her colleagues at work.

“There is a huge need in the Kansas City metro area for mentorship of our youth,” said Hammeke. “There are over 250 kids waiting for those matches. I highly encourage it, it has been the greatest experience.”

After taking pictures, McDuffie walked around the store with the “Littles” and their “Bigs” as they picked things out to purchase, like new jackets and shoes. He also signed items for people and watched one kids highlight reel.

“I think you can have such an impact when you can come to these kids and be a positive role model,” said McDuffie. “I don’t think you have to be perfect or someone who does everything right. These kids just really want someone that they can look up to, that they can call, they can go play video games or go shopping with. It’s just an easy thing to do and it doesn’t take a lot of time out of your life to come and spend time with these kids.”

You can learn more about how to become a ‘Big” on Big Brothers Big Sisters website.

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