We often hear from our Bigs and Littles, but there is another important role that is crucial in making sure the match succeeds: caring parents. This is from Cindy, the mother of one of our Littles:

 "We waited for over a year for Jacob's match but it was well worth the wait. I honestly don't believe there could have been a better match for Jacob OR his Big Brother Chris Milhoan! They get along very well and we are blessed to have a Chris in our lives. With Chris living SO close (less than three miles away), it's easy for them to get together. I am so glad that Jacob is part of the program. I'll never forget the first day those two met...many thanks to everyone at BBBS!!"

Thanks, Cindy, for allowing Big Brother Big Sisters to be a part of your son's life.

From Big Sister Diane Barnes:  My Little Brother Deontae had the time of his life at his first Tampa Bay Rays baseball game and the Rays won! It was family day, so he got a ball cap when he entered the stadium, an autograph, and had the chance to run the bases after the game. We marked our seats on the map in the program and marked the player who gave him the autograph. Deontae sprang out of the car to tell his mom and siblings about his day and to show off what he brought home from the game. We talked a lot about the rules of baseball and he followed the count on the scoreboard with each batter. Deontae studied the game, asking questions, and pointing things out that he observed. It was a great day! 

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Even though her first Little Sister moved out-of-town, it didn't stop Big Sister Melissa Bartley-Johnson from wanting to stay involved. Now, Melissa is matched with Little Sister Denisha. Blind since birth, Denisha hasn't let that stop her from enjoying life to the fullest. In fact, Melissa has helped Little Sister Denisha become more independent and prepare for life in the real world. In addition to her full-time job, Melissa makes time for Denisha, helping with homework, pottery, and baking 'lopsided cupcakes. Melissa also supports the agency by pitching in to help with fundraisers and recruitment. Melissa was recognized as a nominee for the United Way of Tampa's Volunteer of the Year for 2008. Thank you, Melissa, for your dedication and commitment!

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Neil Armstrong became involved with the agency—-not as a volunteer, but as a “Table Captain”—the person who helps recruit friends and co-workers to attend our annual fundraiser, Little Moments Big Magic Luncheon. But, soon after, Neil decided to roll up his sleeves and get involved in a different way. This year, he became   Jamaine’s Big Brother.  Although they’ve only been matched for a few months, they’ve found quite a few things they enjoy, including computers, bowling, and football. Jamaine had the chance to go to his first Bucs football game! Neil says he always wanted to be a Big Brother...now he encourages other men to do the same.

 

 

Big Sister Shelley Perfect is a dedicated and determined volunteer. She was first matched with a Little Sister months ago, but due to circumstances beyond Shelley’s control, the match had to close. But that didn’t deter her. She waited a month, and decided to start the     process to find another Little Sister. And it was worth the wait! Shelley is now matched with Emily and they are having a great time. Shelley says, “Emily makes me laugh because she is silly and makes me smile because she is sincere.” Shelley says thanks to Emily, her life is a lot richer. Shelley could have easily walked away, and missed out on a wonderful young lady. We’re glad you hung in there!

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