The Beat of Giving: Charles Swanson’s Lifelong Mentorship

In the story of The Little Drummer Boy, a humble boy offers the only gift he has - a simple, heartfelt beat on his drum - and leaves a lasting impact. Law Director Charles Swanson embodies this same spirit of quiet generosity through his decades-long mentorship of Daryl Clemes, a relationship that has grown far beyond its beginnings with Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee.

A young Daryl Clemes stands in front of Charles Swanson as best man at Swanson’s wedding, illustrating the depth of their bond.

What began as a one-year commitment in 1987 turned into a lifelong bond. “I quickly realized this was an opportunity to form a meaningful connection,” Swanson said. “And honestly, Daryl has given me far more than I could ever give him.”


From Mentorship to Family

Swanson first met eight-year-old Daryl Clemes through Big Brothers Big Sisters and was drawn to the opportunity to make a difference. One of their earliest connections came through football, but Swanson soon discovered Daryl didn’t even know the rules of the game. “Daryl didn’t even know the rules of the football at first,” Swanson recalls with a smile. “So, I taught him, and now he knows more about football than I do. People come to hear his analysis at our game-day gatherings.”

	Pictured left to right: the late Chief U.S. District Judge Pamela L. Reeves, Amilian Clemes, Daryl Clemes, Elijah Clemes, Felicia Higgs-Clemes, Judah Clemes, and Charles Swanson, all ready to cheer on the Vols!

That shared passion for football grew into a cherished tradition, including trips to bowl games across the country. Over time, their connection became more than mentorship; it became family. Clemes even served as the best man at Swanson’s wedding.

“We’ve spent more holidays together than I’ve spent with my own children,” Swanson said. “We’re just family now.”


A Mutual Gift

While Swanson initially saw mentoring as a way to give back, he quickly realized that the gift was mutual.

Like the Little Drummer Boy’s simple yet profound gift, Swanson’s presence in Daryl’s life has been transformative but not one-sided.

One of the most touching moments in their relationship came when Clemes reflected on the impact Swanson had on his life: “He told someone, ‘Charles didn’t give me advice, he just showed me what it looks like when you get it right.’ That’s stayed with me ever since,” Swanson said, visibly moved by the memory.


The Holiday Spirit of Mentorship

Over time, their connection became more than mentorship; it became family. Reedy Swanson, Charles’ son, even served as a groomsman in Clemes’ wedding.

Despite recent health challenges on both sides, Swanson and Clemes plan to continue their holiday tradition of exchanging gifts and sharing a meal. It’s a simple act, but one that underscores the lasting power of their connection.

“Holidays remind us why giving back is so important,” Swanson said. “It’s about creating those lasting memories and moments that define what family truly is.”


A Message to Knoxville Employees

Swanson encourages other City employees to consider mentorship or volunteer opportunities, even if they feel uncertain about their abilities.

“You don’t have to have all the answers,” he said. “Think about what brings you joy and find a way to share that with others. Mentorship is my passion, but there are so many ways to give back. Every effort, no matter how small, makes a difference.”

Swanson’s story serves as a reminder of the transformative power of quiet generosity. Like the timeless tale of The Little Drummer Boy, small, heartfelt gestures can create a ripple effect that changes lives and strengthens communities.


Want to Make a Difference?

Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee and other local organizations offer opportunities to connect with Knoxville’s youth and make a lasting impact.