Inspiring Atlanta: Greg Clay’s Journey in Mentorship and Community Impact
Welcome to our exclusive Big Spotlight with Greg Clay, a passionate advocate and mentor in the city of Atlanta. Greg holds the position of Executive Director at the Mayor's Office of Constituent Services, where he dedicates his efforts to community enrichment and engagement.
A longtime supporter of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Greg has been a powerful voice for our mission within City Hall—helping drive awareness, boost volunteer recruitment, and strengthen key partnerships. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, BBBSMA honored him with our prestigious Game Changer Award in 2024.
In this conversation, Greg shares his journey and experiences as a mentor, shedding light on the profound impact mentorship has had on his life and the lives of those he guides. We'll explore his motivations for joining the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, the lessons learned from his own mentors, and his invaluable advice for new mentors.
Can you share why you became a Big?
While I have been a BIG in the past, I signed up to be a BIG with Joseph due to a citywide recruitment initiative launched by the Mayor of Atlanta. I not only wanted to support the initiative, I found it would be a great way to reconnect with BBBS and renew my commitment to mentoring.
How has a mentor made an impact on your life?
Mentors have helped me become a better person, executive, and mentor to others. I have had the opportunity to learn from several mentors that are members of 100 Black Men of Atlanta Inc., that have helped build my character, confidence, and commitment to community. My mentors provide a space for me to be myself, and be vulnerable about the things I don't know, and need advice our counsel on.
What has been one of the most rewarding aspects of serving as a BIG?
Seeing my LITTLE take his confidence and apply it to the challenges and opportunities in front of him. Not every path is easy, and seeing my LITTLE approach challenge after challenge, and overcome them by reaching milestones and goals, has been very rewarding. He has shown resilience, while being a role model that I can learn from as well.
What is one piece of advice you have for a new BIG?
You don't have to be perfect, or know exactly what to do, to be a great mentor. Be someone of character, look to build trust, be your authentic self, and give yourself grace in being BIG. Be patient in how you deliver advice and receive input from your LITTLE. Always reward positive behavior and growth—too often the world may point out the bad, without recognizing the good.
What are 1-2 simple and easy ways you support your LITTLE that go a long way and make a BIG difference?
Being a listening ear and being a safe space to discuss the future. It also helps to be as present as you can to understand how life may be impacting your LITTLE at school, at home, and/or in the extracurricular engagements they are involved in.
Anything else you'd like to share?
Getting into the space as a mentor/BIG, you must understand things may not always go right, or as planned. Mentorship isn't just about the good times and going to a football or basketball game...sometimes your Little will rely on you to be a sounding board in the toughest times. Be present, be consistent, and be caring. The world needs you!
Thank You, Greg!
A sincere thank you to Greg for being not just a beacon of leadership and service, but also an invaluable Game Changer. Your steadfast dedication to the youth in our community underscores the profound influence that Bigs can have on their Littles.
It Takes LITTLE to Be BIG! If you're inspired by Greg's journey and want to make a difference, consider becoming a mentor. Visit BBBSATL.org/be-a-big to learn more about how you can contribute to a supportive community that empowers the next generation.