Member Agency Spotlight
Big Brothers Big Sisters Grand Erie
Brant United Way helps children build confidence
Sara* was a young girl who did not have a positive mother figure in her life. Sara turned to her grandmother for support and security. Her grandmother reached out to the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Her hope was that Sara would be able to be a kid again.
In January 2009, Sara was matched with her Big Sister, Kelsie*. When the two first met, Sara was very shy and quite guarded with her feelings. Kelsie was patient with Sara throughout their weekly visits in the hopes of building a relationship and bonding with her. Over time, Kelsie was able to make progress with Sara and began to build a strong relationship with her.
Two years have passed since Kelsie and Sara entered each other's lives. Their relationship is unique and the two share a very special bond. Kelsie continues to meet with Sara regularly and has exposed Sara to many new opportunities and experiences in the community. Sara's grandmother said that "an angel has entered our lives" and now Sara is able to be the kid she deserves to be. Sara's confidence in herself has grown and she is now Student Council President at her school and has educated her peers and teachers about the effects of substance abuse.
Brant United Way has provided the opportunity for a child to learn how to foster positive relationships and children are able to develop confidence and trust in themselves and others. This is only one example of support, success and hope that Brant United Way has helped to provide for ALL members of our community.
We're in this together.
*Name changed for confidentiality