 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. |
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