But since being partnered as part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Casey program, the pair have been inseparable.

The partnership was the first for the program, which aims to improve the lives of vulnerable teenagers by introducing a positive role model into their lives.

Since November last year, more than 50 volunteer adults have joined BBBS to assist teenagers living in Casey.

Adam and Kayne celebrated the conclusion of their 12-month partnership last week.

Adam says becoming involved in the program has given him a new lease on life.

He says the pair clicked straight away and his wife and sons have accepted Kayne as one of the family.

Program director Rebecca Wolstenholme says it was amazing to watch the friendship between the two blossom.

"It is a unique and amazing connection and I have felt privileged to be the one to put these two together.

"We would be happy to lose every match in this way, if it meant such an incredible outcome.

"We know this program works and that a simple friendship formed between an adult mentor and a young person is powerful.

"Kayne and Adam are living proof of this fact.

"We just want all of the children on our waiting list to have the same opportunity to build a positive friendship with an adult."

Rebecca said it was sad that a lack of funding had forced the program to postpone any future matches.

"We are appealing to business people and others in the community to help us keep this program running and growing.

"We know the need is there; we have families and young people who are desperate to access a Big Brother or Big Sister, but we just can't meet this demand on our current budget. We need everyone's help," Rebecca says.

The program has a waiting list of more than 70 youths.

"Every young person's story is unique and each is deserving of the chance to build a connection with a trusting adult," Rebecca says.

"It is a vision that will never be realised without the wider community of Casey getting behind it."

If you think you might be able to offer assistance, either through a fund-raising initiative or by becoming a sponsor of Big Brothers Big Sisters, call Rebecca on 97055033.