Anthony & Steven— More Than a Mentor: How Career Guidance and a Winter Coat Built a Lasting Bond7/1/2025
When Anthony joined the BBBS Career Buddies program at Pershing High School, he brought curiosity, kindness, and a drive to succeed—he just needed someone to help channel that potential. His Big, Steven, is one of the many dedicated Ally employees who volunteer their time each week to guide students like Anthony through real-world conversations about work, money, and life.
Thanks to our incredible partnership with Ally, students are welcomed into Ally Detroit Center every Thursday for this career-focused mentoring program. It’s more than a feel-good moment—it's an investment in Southeast Michigan’s future, and a proven way to help youth thrive. Over the past eight months, Anthony and Steven have transformed their Thursday check-ins into a meaningful, productive, and unforgettable relationship. Here are a few little moments that made a BIG impact—and made these two our July Match of the Month: They built trust from day one. Both were a little quiet at first—but that quickly shifted when they began talking about finances, goals, and family. Steven’s expertise in money management gave Anthony a safe space to ask real questions. And Anthony’s honesty gave Steven a powerful glimpse into the challenges and hopes of today’s youth. They set goals—and achieved them. Anthony and Steven worked side-by-side on grade tracking, budgeting templates, and career readiness activities that explored future opportunities—from becoming a pilot to navigating the workplace. Their focus? Stay on track academically, learn how to manage money, and explore what’s possible after graduation. A coat changed everything. During one winter session, Steven noticed Anthony didn’t have a coat. He brought it to the BBBS team’s attention—and by the end of the day, Anthony had a coat of his own. Steven made him feel warm, cared for, and seen. “That’s when I knew I could trust him,” Anthony shared. They leave every session laughing. Whether they’re swapping stories during a worksheet or catching up during a special downtown lunch, joy and trust are central to their connection. “The conversations before we start—that’s my favorite part,” Anthony shared. From budgeting to debating the best lunch spots, this match blends real-life lessons with plenty of lighthearted fun. Mutual Impact Steven says it best: “It’s been an incredible experience mentoring with Anthony! He’s a bright kid with lots of ambition, and I’m happy to have played a part in his growth.” This is what mentorship looks like when career and community come together. Because of Ally’s commitment—not just financially, but through the time and talents of their employees—programs like Career Buddies are preparing youth for brighter futures and stronger communities. And we need more of them. Want to be part of something this impactful? Become a Big. Partner with BBBS. Help us launch the next great school-based program. When Amber and 9-year-old Aaliyah first met through our Erickson Lunch Buddies program, it was clear something special was beginning. In just under five months, their connection has blossomed into something joyful, healing, and meaningful for everyone involved — including Aaliyah’s mom.
Here are just a few snapshots from their growing relationship that show why mentorship matters: 1. From Soft Smiles to Full-On Giggling At their very first meeting, Aaliyah quietly told Amber she was "pretty" — and just like that, the ice was broken. Since then, they’ve bonded over nail painting, badminton, gaga ball, and card-making. Laughter is the soundtrack of their time together. 2. Advice From Someone Who Listens Aaliyah says the best part of having Amber as her Big is having someone to talk to who “gives advice.” Whether it’s about school, family, or fears (like those bears in Arkansas), Amber listens, asks thoughtful questions, and meets Aaliyah exactly where she is. 3. Showing Up at Just the Right Time When Aaliyah needed support navigating a conflict at school, her match support specialist stepped in for the day — but Aaliyah still drew strength from what Amber had taught her. She stayed calm, shared her feelings, and handled a tough moment with surprising maturity. 4. A Ripple Effect at Home Aaliyah’s mom shared that from the moment she got home after their first day together, she couldn’t stop smiling — or talking about Amber. “She talked about her for two days straight,” her mom said, adding how grateful she was to see Aaliyah excited, confident, and connected. 5. A Reminder of the Joy in Being a Kid Amber recently shared, “I forgot how easy it is to have fun as a kid.” Being a Big isn’t just about giving back — it’s about rediscovering your own joy, purpose, and playful side. As Amber said, “Time goes by too fast when we’re together.” This match proves that mentorship isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being present. And when someone like Amber shows up, it changes everything. For Aaliyah. For her mom. And for Amber herself. At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan, we believe in the transformative power of connection. Few matches embody that power more clearly than our May Match of the Month: Meet Big Dan and Little Christopher.
Christopher was just ten years old when he met Dan in 2021. Since that day, their bond has grown from an initial connection over sports and video games to a meaningful, multi-layered friendship that will celebrate its fourth anniversary this July. Now 15 years old, Christopher is taller, stronger, and wiser—and a big part of that growth has come from the consistency, patience, and encouragement of his Big, Dan. Dan is the kind of mentor who doesn't just show up—he invests. Whether it's tutoring Christopher in algebra before a big exam or channeling his inner kid on roller coasters at Cedar Point, Dan approaches his role with both enthusiasm and intention. He knows that mentorship isn't just about showing up to the fun stuff. It's about being present during the quiet moments too—during a tough homework session, after a rough day at school, or simply to talk. Before I signed up for mentoring, Dan shares, I doubted my ability to make a meaningful impact. But my match with Christopher taught me that showing up week after week can change a life. "I promise you, showing up and demonstrating that you care comprises the foundational bedrock of a meaningful connection. You don't have to be perfect, you just have to be present!" Christopher has certainly felt that presence. "Dan has taught me to do everything 110% and push myself to be better," he says. "My favorite thing about Dan is his energy and will to do things—it's made me want to do more than I used to." They've created unforgettable memories together: attending Michigan football games, movie nights, karate classes, and even last-minute math study sessions. But beyond the outings and adventures, it's the emotional support that makes this match special. Christopher now has someone outside his immediate family to talk to, lean on, and learn from. Christopher’s mom, Lisa, captures the heart of their match perfectly: It’s so much more than just having a mentor. Dan is an integral part of our family now. He didn’t shy away when things got hard, and that means the world to us. "Thank you, Dan, for being such an impactful part of our village. You are a great mentor and friend and we will treasure you always.” From trips to the Big House to bonding over football stats and life advice, this match has become an inspiring example of what BBBS is all about: building meaningful connection, and lifelong impact. In a world that often feels divided, Dan and Christopher remind us that one strong, steady relationship can be the spark that that changes everything. Congratulations to Dan and Christopher on being our May Match of the Month. Thank you for showing us the true power of connection—and for reminding us of the transformative power of relationships.   From the moment they met, Ben and Moon (nicknamed "Moon") formed an instant bond, a connection that felt like family from the start.
Over the past year and a half, their time together has been nothing short of magical. As Moon gears up for middle school, Ben has been a steadfast guide, helping Moon navigate this new chapter by exploring potential sports teams and extracurricular activities. Their shared interests, particularly Moon’s passion for engineering, have led them to dream up and work on exciting projects together. One standout memory they created recently was attending a Detroit Tigers game, thanks to the generosity of a donor. Ben and Moon were thrilled by the experience, and their enthusiasm for the game was palpable. “We had a BLAST and were so appreciative of the tickets!” Ben shared with a smile. Ben frequently praises Moon, calling him a “good kid” and highlighting his creativity. Moon’s mom echoes these sentiments, noting how consistent and reliable Ben has been. Whether it’s attending Moon’s Capoeira performances or cheering him on at baseball practices and games, Ben has been a pillar of support for Moon. Their partnership also extends to giving back, as they have volunteered together in a park cleanup in Ann Arbor. Moon’s natural talent for creation shines through in everything he does. At their match meeting, he proudly displayed intricate Lego models and talked about his involvement in the Science Olympiad. Seeing both Moon’s growth and Ben’s evolving role as a mentor is deeply rewarding for Crystal Treatt-Johnson, who finds joy in witnessing the positive impact these relationships have. Ben and Moon’s story is a testament to the power of mentorship and the lasting bonds that can be formed. As Ben puts it, “Working with Moon has been a rewarding experience. Watching him grow and supporting him through his interests has been truly fulfilling.” If you’re inspired by their story and want to make a difference in a young person’s life, consider becoming a Big. The connections you build could transform lives and create unforgettable memories. Want to create a similar connection? Become a Big and make a lasting difference in a young person’s life.  From their very first meeting, Big Sister April and Little Brother Oliver set out to make memories, and over the course of their 1 year and 4 months together, they exceeded every goal they had set. Now, as their match comes to a close due to April’s move, the impact of their bond remains unshakable.
When they first connected, Oliver’s main goal was simple: to gain a new friend who would help him get out of the house more often. Reflecting on their time together, Oliver beams, “That was DEFINITELY met. She took me EVERYWHERE!” Whether it was exploring new places, sharing new experiences, or simply spending time together, April made sure to fulfill Oliver’s wish for adventure and connection. The graduation meeting to close their match was bittersweet, but both Oliver and April know that the friendship they’ve built will last a lifetime. Their match represents more than just time spent together—it symbolizes the power of mentorship and how even after parting ways, the impact remains. For April, becoming an “Alumni Big” is a badge of honor, and Oliver, now an “Alumni Little,” proudly reflects on all they’ve accomplished together. Although they won’t be seeing each other as often, their connection runs deep, and the memories they’ve made will stay with them forever. The closing of their match is not the end, but rather a celebration of what mentorship can achieve. If you want to create a meaningful bond that will leave a lasting impression, consider becoming a Big. You could be the next chapter in a young person’s story, and the memories you create together will stay with them for a lifetime. Want to create a similar connection? Become a Big and make a lasting difference in a young person’s life.  Ten years. That’s how long Laura and Alexis have been an inseparable duo, thanks to Big Brothers Big Sisters. As Alexis prepares to embark on her next chapter as a high school graduate, the pair reflect on a decade of shared laughter, growth, and unforgettable adventures. Laura, with a heartwarming smile, describes watching Alexis blossom into a remarkable young woman as the greatest gift of their match. For Alexis, having a constant, supportive figure outside of her family has been invaluable. “Laura has taught me so much and has always been someone I can talk to without judgment,” she shares. Their journey together has been a testament to resilience. Laura credits Alexis for inspiring her to overcome challenges, while Alexis found the confidence to conquer hurdles she once thought impossible. Together, they’ve cultivated a positive outlook on life, facing obstacles with courage and determination. From exploring art museums to rolling up their sleeves for community service, Laura and Alexis have expanded their horizons together. Cleaning up local parks with BBBS holds a special place in their hearts, a shared commitment to their community. Their adventures are as diverse as their personalities. From canoeing encounters with unexpected amphibian passengers to savoring homemade pesto pasta from Laura’s garden, their bond has deepened with every experience. Hiking, biking, kayaking, swimming – you name it, they’ve done it. A camping trip that included horseback riding and a drive-thru zoo remains a highlight, filled with laughter and shared wonder. Both women describe their friendship as the heart of their match. Laura cherishes their connection, while Alexis praises Laura for pushing her out of her comfort zone. Together, they’ve created a world of possibilities, experiencing things they never imagined. As Alexis prepares to spread her wings, the bittersweet reality of their match ending is palpable. Yet, their gratitude for Big Brothers Big Sisters is immense. They’ve found in each other a lifelong friend, a mentor, and a constant source of inspiration.  Their laughter is contagious, their bond undeniable. Miguel and Veronica are a school-based match whose friendship shines as brightly as their smiles. From the moment they met, there was an instant connection – a feeling of family, as they both describe it. Setting a goal to boost Miguel’s reading skills, Veronica transformed learning into fun. Now, books are his go-to activity, and he eagerly awaits their lunch and recess adventures. Each day, Miguel’s bright eyes scan the classroom, searching for Veronica. The moment they connect, their world lights up with shared stories and laughter. Both Miguel and Veronica rave about each other’s kindness and humor. From school-wide scavenger hunts that turned into silly adventures to friendly games with other matches, their days are filled with joy. Reading together, especially Minecraft books, is a favorite pastime. As the school year drew to a close, the thought of separation filled Miguel with worry. But when he learned they could continue their match, his face lit up. His excitement was infectious, and it was clear this partnership meant the world to him. Veronica and Miguel’s story is a perfect example of the positive impact our program has on both Bigs and Littles. Veronica found immense satisfaction in watching Miguel grow, while Miguel cherishes the bond they’ve built. As Veronica puts it, “It was rewarding to work on Miguel’s goals and see the growth in a short amount of time together.” And Miguel simply says, “I love spending time with my Big, she is so nice and reminds me of my mom.” Want to make a difference in a young person’s life? Become a site-based Big and create lasting memories.  From the moment they met, Melanie and Antoynette knew they had found a special connection. Their shared laughter and adventurous spirit have created a bond that transcends miles.
Melanie, a mom of two boys, relishes the opportunity to experience the world through a teenage girl’s eyes. She’s particularly enjoyed diving into Antoynette’s world as she explores potential career paths. Antoynette has embraced learning British English and dreams of visiting Melanie in England this summer. Their initial plan for a one-year match has blossomed into something extraordinary, with the possibility of international travel on the horizon. To make the most of their time together, they created a bucket list filled with fun, active, educational, and volunteer activities. Checking off each item has become a source of excitement and anticipation. From a thrilling cycle taxi ride through downtown Ann Arbor to conquering the waves at the water park, their adventures are as diverse as their personalities. Sharing a meal together recently, they discovered a shared love of food and culture. Their ability to laugh together and engage in meaningful conversations about their communities is a testament to their strong connection. Melanie and Antoynette have discovered a remarkable friendship built on shared humor, curiosity, and a desire to make the world a better place. As they say, they’re on the same wavelength! Want to create a similar connection? Become a Big and make a lasting difference in a young person’s life.  Meet Dereon and Kyle, our July Match of the Month! First connected in November of 2022, this match loves being active and playing games together, especially board games. They also have a secret handshake they do every time they see each other and quickly bonded over a shared love of Pokemon, with Kyle bringing in some of his old Pokemon’s for his Little, much to Dereon’s delight. This pair is so happily matched that Dereon is often seen racing down the hall in excitement when it’s his Lunch Buddies day with Kyle. This joyful connectivity they share is why they are this month’s Match of the Month!
 Meet our June Match of the Month, A’Nyla and Nika! This dynamic Disney loving duo are a part of our School Based Program and have been matched since December of last year.These two love all things Disney, especially the Princesses, and on the very first day they met, Nika brought A’Nyla a Princess Tiana wallet and the two have been the best of friends ever since. Nika is originally from California, which absolutely thrilled A’Nyla, and the two of them already have big dreams to visit both Disneyland and Disney World as well as all of the Disney parks around the world. We are so excited to see what comes next for this match-congratulations to you both!
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