Match of the Month: Amber & Aaliyah — Little Moments, Big Impact

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.