Out of the many dedicated Bigs in our community, there are some whose relationships with their Littles have stood the test of time. One such match is between Big Sister Kate and her Little Sister Lamonie, who have been matched for over 14 years. Their journey together has been filled with meaningful experiences and lasting memories. Read on to learn more about their remarkable bond and what being a Big Sister has meant to Kate.
Discovering the Impact of Mentorship:
When Kate first considered becoming a Big, she knew she wanted to give back to her community. With a background as a camp counselor, nanny, and swim coach, working with kids was second nature to her. However, the BBBS program offered something unique—a chance to be a consistent, positive presence in a kid’s life. “I was surprised to learn just how many kids were on the waitlist, eager for a mentor,” she recalls. “It really reaffirmed my decision to become a Big Sister, knowing my time could truly make a difference.
The Power of Connection:
From the moment they were matched, Kate noticed how much her Little Sister valued their one-on-one time. Whether they were grabbing lunch or running errands, Lamonie was always excited to have someone to call “her person.”
One of their most cherished memories is attending the “Steaks with Hos” event, where they had the unique opportunity to dine with baseball star Eric Hosmer. Winning the contest with a video that showcased why their match was a “home run.” “She was so thrilled, and I’ll never forget the huge smile on her face that day.”
Witnessing Growth and Achievements:
Over the years, Kate has had the privilege of watching Lamonie grow into a confident, accomplished young woman. From her first job to high school graduation to moving into a college dorm, she has been there every step of the way. “It’s been incredible to see her confidence grow,” she says. “When we first met, she was a bit shy, but now she’s a self-assured, confident young woman.”
What It Means to Be a Big Sister:
“To know that I’ve had an impact on such a remarkable person is pretty incredible,” Kate shares. “The experience has taught me patience and understanding.” Their strong bond has been maintained through consistent effort, even when life gets busy. “We’ve always made an effort to stay in touch, whether it’s through texts, emails, or catching up in person. “ She also credits the success of the Match to the support of Lamonie’s mother, Shawanna, and their shared love for trying new things—like their “around the world food tour,” where they sampled different international cuisines together.
Advice for Aspiring Bigs:
For those considering becoming a Big, Kate has simple advice: “Be patient and stick around.” She emphasizes that not every outing will be perfect, especially during the teenage years, but the key is to let your Little know that you’re there for them, no matter what.
“It might seem daunting, but it’s just a few hours a week. Your Little just wants to hang out with you, and once you realize that, the pressure to plan something extraordinary fades away.”
