Hi, my name is Kristie.

I’m 30 years old and I still often confuse people when I talk about my “big sister”.
Thank-you for all that this organization does. I’ve often been asked how I’ve overcame so many odds despite my upbringing and I truly know in my heart it’s the impact of the care and love given by the selflessness of the woman whom volunteered and likely impacted the entire course of my life.

My Big and I were matched in the Spring of 1997. For 20 years this woman has been more than a mentor or best friend, she really is my family! We keep in touch and visit regularly with our children who cherish a bond of their own. Without this organization I would not have had such positive influence in my life.

I didn’t know it as a child but as a grown woman I will be forever grateful for the opportunities and change gifted to me. These experiences made me differ from my biological siblings overall emotional wellbeing, I’ve overcome statistics, and I’m likely even a better parent from the role this had in my life.

I’m sharing this story with you for 2 reasons, one being to say thank you (which I have – possibly multiple times) and the other because stories like this are rare but worth acknowledging to remind you this is why volunteers matter, this is why children need mentors and what you do matters and makes a difference!
Happy 20 Year Matchiversary!

– Kristie