Big Brothers Big Sisters of Fredericton Oromocto

Success Stories
The following stories share the wonderful experiences of Bigs, Littles and parents that have been involved with our Agency and reflect the value and lasting impressions of Big Brothers-Big Sisters. All of these rewarding stories resulted from matched made by the Fredericton and Oromocto agency.

·         Rhea - Little Sister
·         Anita - Big Sister
·         Karen and Raynald - Couple Match
·         Brian - Big Brother
·         Lisa - Little Sister
·         Geneva - Big Sister
·         Brenda - Mom's Perspective

Rhea
(former Little Sister speech at an Annual Appreciation Banquet)

I have had the pleasure of being a "Little Sister" for the past twelve and a half years. As I was sitting at my kitchen table trying to figure out what I was going to say tonight, I realized what a task it was, trying to summarize the past twelve and a half years.

My dilemma was first trying to figure out what I could say to catch everyone's attention. Next, I had to sort through the years the most memorable things that Anita and I did together. But, in fact, that would have to have been almost every time I spent with her. Through the years, Anita has always been there for me, as in her time. She always made time for me. When in my family no one had a lot of time for me. She came to choir concerts and school plays when most times it was just her there for me because my father couldn't come. She has been there through all the major events in my life, such as my high school graduation, my prom, visiting me while I was in the hospital when I had my daughter. It really meant a lot to me.

I remember one instance, when I was 11 or 12, and it was my Christmas Concert, and I knew my dad wasn't there and I didn't even know Anita was there until afterward when she came to tell me what a good job I had done. I remember that I felt really special because, unlike everyone else whose parents had come, my Big Sister was there. Even now she makes time for me, even though it isn't as often as we used to because of our busy schedules.

I think our most favourite thing to do together is to go walking and have an ice cream cone. This was what we did on our very first occasion together and many, many times over the past years. It worked out perfect because both of us love ice cream, and for me it was a great time to just talk. Anita always seemed so interested in what I was saying. Again it made me feel special, because my father and I didn't talk. I shared many thoughts and dreams over ice cream with her, and when she talked I listened to her as she always had a much more interesting life than anyone I knew did.

I would say for the first 7 or 8 years, we would walk down by the green and have ice cream every September, kind of like our anniversary. As the years went by, it was nice to walk and talk about all the memories we have shared. I do know one thing, I really couldn't tell you the exact date, all I remember was it was the first or second week in September. I remember once when we had attended the Annual General Meeting of Big Brothers, Big Sisters and Rhonda introduced us. I was surprised that she knew what the date was, and I remember commenting to Anita that I didn't know that was the date.

Anita has influenced my life in a lot of little things, which most people would take for granted. A few of them are: setting a proper table, things I eat, like vegetables-- growing up with a couple of guys we rarely sat at the table and we rarely ate vegetables. Music, I love oldies music. Art, ballet; not one of my friends like art or like the ballet. Yet with Anita, I was able to grow to love both. And growing up with just my dad and an older brother, I really do believe that she has taught me to behave and act like a lady.

Anita plays an active role in my life today, and even though I was officially out of the program when I was 16; we still remain special friends. I still consider her my "Big Sister", and I remember when I had just turned 16, and Big Brothers-Big Sisters sent me a form to fill out so they could close my file, I didn't fill it out nor did I return it because no matter how old I am, in my heart she is my Big Sister and she is my secret strength.

Anita has also helped me with my daughter. Because Anita showed me love and understanding, I have been able to show and give both those traits to my daughter. I would also like to thank my Big Sister, Anita, for helping me grow into a mature young lady.

Back to top

Anita
(former Big-Sister and Board member)

When Rhea was in grade school her Dad decided that she needed a woman's influence in her life because her Mom lived in South Carolina. He called Rhonda Rogers about the "Matching" program offered by Big Brothers-Big Sisters.

Rhea was nine when she and Anita first met. They went for a walk along the green for their first outing and played on the swing sets. Every year on the anniversary of their first meeting they retrace their steps along the green and the wharf to mark the first time they spent together as Big and Little. Over the years they have enjoyed skating, hiking, music, crafts, tennis, photography, travel, sleep-overs, playing board games and eating ice cream. Rhea and Anita liked to cook together and to entertain friends. Anita attended many of Rhea's school concerts and was invited to attend her high school graduation.

When Rhea turned 16, her and Anita's commitment to each other as "Big Sister and Little Sister" ended. However, they have remained in contact over the years and will be lifelong friends. Throughout their years with Big Brothers-Big Sisters, they were chosen to participate in the "Faces of the United Way" initiative and have done two television programs to promote the matching program.

Rhea has graduated from FrederictonHigh School and the New BrunswickCommunity College and is presently looking for work. Anita presently serves on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers-Big Sisters of Fredericton and Oromocto.

Back to top

Karen and Raynald
(A couple match)

We have been with Mackenzie for two years. During that time we have seen Mackenzie grow and mature so much that it amazes us.

As we write this note, we remember our first meeting after we were matched. We went to a park in the Mactaquac area. He had so many questions, energy and explanations for things that made perfect sense to a child. A child that has affected our lives in a wonderful way. We enjoy doing all kinds of things together, he is so willing to help and to learn. We like to go bike riding, do repairs around our home, pick apples, play street hockey and yell "car". We have gone to Kings Landing and have taken a long weekend to P.E.I.

Being with Mackenzie every week has kept us young and in touch with what kids his age like and dislike. Sometimes all they want is to be with somebody. They learn very fast the lessons of life, we have to be very careful how we are presenting it to them.

But it is never the quantity of things that we do or the money we spend. It's the quality of the time we spend together that counts.

Back to top

Brian
(former Big Brother)

I recently had the privilege of attending a very special wedding ceremony and am writing this letter to you today with the sole purpose of sharing this wonderful personal experience that occurred because I was a Big Brother. I am sure that there have been many other former Big Brothers and Big Sisters with similar experiences, but regardless, this is my own experience and one which I feel compelled to share with you. Hopefully, this story will help inspire the numerous volunteers and Bigs to continue their important work in making Big Brothers-Big Sisters such a great and worthwhile organization.

In my case, it was about 16 years ago (I was probably 23 at the time) when I was considering doing some volunteer work and my girlfriend of the day and who is now my wife encouraged me to look into becoming a Big Brother. This I did and decided to give it a try. I was matched with a very shy and quiet Little Brother named, Trevor. I believe he was 12 years of age at the time. For approximately two years, we had a very strong and regular relationship but unfortunately, because of a work related transfer, our weekly get togethers had to end. Trevor did, on one occasion, come to visit me while we were living in Sydney, Nova Scotia but as time went on over the following 12 years or so, the contact was very limited. In fact, until recently, the last time I had spoken to Trevor had been 2 or 3 years ago and it had been even longer before that. What I am trying to say is that time had gone by for both Trevor and me.

About two months ago, a very touching moment occurred for me with the receipt of a wedding invitation from my Little Brother, Trevor, who is now 27 years of age.

I attended Trevor's wedding on August 21, 1999 in Summerside, PEI and was overwhelmed by how much he had grown and how he had become such a fine gentleman. Trevor could not have found a more wonderful wife. It was a match made in heaven. I am very happy for him.

While I was at the wedding I was humbled by several of Trevor's relatives and friends who had remarked that Trevor spoke of me often. I felt like a celebrity. Little did I know that the friendship developed from the weekly get togethers would mean so much to Trevor that after 15 years, he would remember me with an invitation to his wedding. It just goes to show what a little bit of time spent with a child means to them.

It is also important to know that this friendship is genuine and is not a result of Trevor having been treated to costly outings. Most activities were very simple but it was the special attention given to him that made the friendship last. This certainly has been the greatest reward from my time as a Big Brother.

In future, both Trevor and I plan to visit each other whenever the opportunity presents itself.

In conclusion, I wish to say that this experience has provided me with a good feeling inside and has caused me to reevaluate the quantity and quality of time spent with my own children.

Back to top

Lisa
(former Little Sister and an In-School Mentor)

In 1981, I had the good fortune of being matched with a great Big Sister. Over the course of our 6 year match, Geneva and I shared many experiences: swimming, cooking, travelling and just chatting and enjoying each other's company. Geneva organized different learning opportunities for me such as enrolling me in a YMCA program, giving me a chance to try racquetball and curling, and getting Kinsmen sponsorship for me to attend the Visiting Cousins and Family Kin programs at Kings Landing. She had a part in shaping who I am today.

I can't say enough about what the Big Brothers Big Sister program means to kids. Just four hours a week spending time listening, and sharing has an immense impact. It can be an experience that children can take with them through their lives, long after an official match ends. Geneva and I remain good friends and I see her as a mentor as I embark on my professional life. Even if circumstances didn't allow for a continued relationship, the times I remember as a child would be enough to say the program WORKS!

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Geneva for her friendship and the opportunities she has sought out for me, the wonderful people at the Big Brothers-Big Sisters organization for their support and genuine interest in our match, and my mother who saw the value in the program and who always encourages me to follow the path I chose to happiness.

Back to top

Geneva
(former Big Sister)

To have a positive influence in a child's life should be the aim of every adult, whether it's their own child or that of someone else. Big Brothers-Big Sisters affords those adults with that aim an excellent opportunity to be an important part of a child's development.

I first met my little sister, Lisa, when she was ten years old - that was 19 years ago, I still see her regularly and we still enjoy doing things together. It has been a mutually agreeable experience and I take pride in the accomplishments she has made and in the fact that I have, in some way, contributed to her success as a young adult.

Big Brothers-Big Sisters provides young children with a dimension that might not necessarily be available to them in a single parent family, it gives them an outside influence by a dedicated adult. One should not think the rewards go only to the child, because the adult who volunteers reaps many rewards.

I would recommend the program to anyone with a desire to be a positive influence to someone who will, without realizing it, reward you well for your efforts.

Back to top

BIG DIFFERENCE From a Mom's perspective
by Brenda

A number of years ago I arrived in the city not knowing a soul. I knew it was going to be difficult with two small children. In my search for support and encouragement I found "Big Brothers-Big Sisters'. My initial meeting with the organization left me amazed that others in the community would want to be involved in such a special way. The impact that adults have on a child's life is unbelievable and to have this special organization to match a child with that special adult is more than words can explain.

I decided to go back to school and was accepted by a local university. I began my degree and the first year was unbelievable…..studying, reports due, bills, children's homework….it was hard! At the end of my first year I received a phone call that would change it all!

My oldest son Clayton, then 7 years old, was blessed with a Big Brother, Barry. I remember the first day they went off together like it was yesterday. I was so nervous, unsure, and protective….was he going to have fun, will he be gone long, will he be scared, what if he thinks I am leaving him for good…..all these thoughts! The staff at Big Brothers-Big Sisters were great, my separation anxiety must have drove them crazy, their reassurance was something that was really needed and they knew just what to say to make me feel better.

Barry and Clayton went off on their first visit to meet Barry's family and so the friendship began. Clayton came home with the greatest stories and had the time of his life. It was not long when Clayton's younger brother Justin wanted to find out what this special visit was all about. One visit he was permitted to tag along and meet Barry's family. This would be the second child they would bring under their wings. Barry's wife MaryAnn fell head over heals for my little Justin and unofficially became his "Big".

In the months and years to come the boys were both treated like kings. The special attention they received from Barry and MaryAnn had such an impact. To this day if they do anything that is not deemed appropriate, or bring home a grade from school that is not that great, they want to know if I am going to tell Barry. It is these types of things that have made such a difference. Knowing that someone cares so much, having someone so special to look up to.

Barry has given the boys things they would have never experienced, for example, he introduced them to hockey and the importance of learning team spirit and commitment. They have had the opportunity to golf, sail, fish, and even travel.

The next 3 years of university was much more rewarding and what a big difference. Without the kind, generous, loving support of their whole family I don't think I would have ever finished my degree. Barry and MaryAnn provided much need support for myself and at the same time showed my children such a loving family environment. Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter…..all of the important family gathering we were always welcome and made to feel like part of the family. The special things were unforgettable, my birthday and Mothers Day getting wonderful things that made me feel special and knowing the boys could not have done it on their own. This experience has shown the boys how to be giving and caring of others.

I have finished my university degree and have recently remarried to a wonderful man who has a special place in his heart for the "whole" family, Clayton, Justin, and Barry, MaryAnn, and their three wonderful daughters Kate, Allison, and Karen. Barry is one of the most important people in our lives and I am sure this will be forever.

My sincere thank you to "Big-Brothers-Big-Sisters" and to all the Bigs who make such a difference in a Mom's life.

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	Success Stories The following stories share the wonderful experiences of Bigs, Littles and parents that have been involved with our Agency and reflect the value and lasting impressions of Big Brothers-Big Sisters. All of these rewarding stories resulted from matched made by the Fredericton and Oromocto agency. · Rhea - Little Sister · Anita - Big Sister · Karen and Raynald - Couple Match · Brian - Big Brother · Lisa - Little Sister · Geneva - Big Sister · Brenda - Mom's Perspective Rhea (former Little Sister speech at an Annual Appreciation Banquet) I have had the pleasure of being a "Little Sister" for the past twelve and a half years. As I was sitting at my kitchen table trying to figure out what I was going to say tonight, I realized what a task it was, trying to summarize the past twelve and a half years. My dilemma was first trying to figure out what I could say to catch everyone's attention. Next, I had to sort through the years the most memorable things that Anita and I did together. But, in fact, that would have to have been almost every time I spent with her. Through the years, Anita has always been there for me, as in her time. She always made time for me. When in my family no one had a lot of time for me. She came to choir concerts and school plays when most times it was just her there for me because my father couldn't come. She has been there through all the major events in my life, such as my high school graduation, my prom, visiting me while I was in the hospital when I had my daughter. It really meant a lot to me. I remember one instance, when I was 11 or 12, and it was my Christmas Concert, and I knew my dad wasn't there and I didn't even know Anita was there until afterward when she came to tell me what a good job I had done. I remember that I felt really special because, unlike everyone else whose parents had come, my Big Sister was there. Even now she makes time for me, even though it isn't as often as we used to because of our busy schedules. I think our most favourite thing to do together is to go walking and have an ice cream cone. This was what we did on our very first occasion together and many, many times over the past years. It worked out perfect because both of us love ice cream, and for me it was a great time to just talk. Anita always seemed so interested in what I was saying. Again it made me feel special, because my father and I didn't talk. I shared many thoughts and dreams over ice cream with her, and when she talked I listened to her as she always had a much more interesting life than anyone I knew did. I would say for the first 7 or 8 years, we would walk down by the green and have ice cream every September, kind of like our anniversary. As the years went by, it was nice to walk and talk about all the memories we have shared. I do know one thing, I really couldn't tell you the exact date, all I remember was it was the first or second week in September. I remember once when we had attended the Annual General Meeting of Big Brothers, Big Sisters and Rhonda introduced us. I was surprised that she knew what the date was, and I remember commenting to Anita that I didn't know that was the date. Anita has influenced my life in a lot of little things, which most people would take for granted. A few of them are: setting a proper table, things I eat, like vegetables-- growing up with a couple of guys we rarely sat at the table and we rarely ate vegetables. Music, I love oldies music. Art, ballet; not one of my friends like art or like the ballet. Yet with Anita, I was able to grow to love both. And growing up with just my dad and an older brother, I really do believe that she has taught me to behave and act like a lady. Anita plays an active role in my life today, and even though I was officially out of the program when I was 16; we still remain special friends. I still consider her my "Big Sister", and I remember when I had just turned 16, and Big Brothers-Big Sisters sent me a form to fill out so they could close my file, I didn't fill it out nor did I return it because no matter how old I am, in my heart she is my Big Sister and she is my secret strength. Anita has also helped me with my daughter. Because Anita showed me love and understanding, I have been able to show and give both those traits to my daughter. I would also like to thank my Big Sister, Anita, for helping me grow into a mature young lady. Back to top Anita (former Big-Sister and Board member) When Rhea was in grade school her Dad decided that she needed a woman's influence in her life because her Mom lived in South Carolina. He called Rhonda Rogers about the "Matching" program offered by Big Brothers-Big Sisters. Rhea was nine when she and Anita first met. They went for a walk along the green for their first outing and played on the swing sets. Every year on the anniversary of their first meeting they retrace their steps along the green and the wharf to mark the first time they spent together as Big and Little. Over the years they have enjoyed skating, hiking, music, crafts, tennis, photography, travel, sleep-overs, playing board games and eating ice cream. Rhea and Anita liked to cook together and to entertain friends. Anita attended many of Rhea's school concerts and was invited to attend her high school graduation. When Rhea turned 16, her and Anita's commitment to each other as "Big Sister and Little Sister" ended. However, they have remained in contact over the years and will be lifelong friends. Throughout their years with Big Brothers-Big Sisters, they were chosen to participate in the "Faces of the United Way" initiative and have done two television programs to promote the matching program. Rhea has graduated from FrederictonHigh School and the New BrunswickCommunity College and is presently looking for work. Anita presently serves on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers-Big Sisters of Fredericton and Oromocto. Back to top Karen and Raynald (A couple match) We have been with Mackenzie for two years. During that time we have seen Mackenzie grow and mature so much that it amazes us. As we write this note, we remember our first meeting after we were matched. We went to a park in the Mactaquac area. He had so many questions, energy and explanations for things that made perfect sense to a child. A child that has affected our lives in a wonderful way. We enjoy doing all kinds of things together, he is so willing to help and to learn. We like to go bike riding, do repairs around our home, pick apples, play street hockey and yell "car". We have gone to Kings Landing and have taken a long weekend to P.E.I. Being with Mackenzie every week has kept us young and in touch with what kids his age like and dislike. Sometimes all they want is to be with somebody. They learn very fast the lessons of life, we have to be very careful how we are presenting it to them. But it is never the quantity of things that we do or the money we spend. It's the quality of the time we spend together that counts. Back to top Brian (former Big Brother) I recently had the privilege of attending a very special wedding ceremony and am writing this letter to you today with the sole purpose of sharing this wonderful personal experience that occurred because I was a Big Brother. I am sure that there have been many other former Big Brothers and Big Sisters with similar experiences, but regardless, this is my own experience and one which I feel compelled to share with you. Hopefully, this story will help inspire the numerous volunteers and Bigs to continue their important work in making Big Brothers-Big Sisters such a great and worthwhile organization. In my case, it was about 16 years ago (I was probably 23 at the time) when I was considering doing some volunteer work and my girlfriend of the day and who is now my wife encouraged me to look into becoming a Big Brother. This I did and decided to give it a try. I was matched with a very shy and quiet Little Brother named, Trevor. I believe he was 12 years of age at the time. For approximately two years, we had a very strong and regular relationship but unfortunately, because of a work related transfer, our weekly get togethers had to end. Trevor did, on one occasion, come to visit me while we were living in Sydney, Nova Scotia but as time went on over the following 12 years or so, the contact was very limited. In fact, until recently, the last time I had spoken to Trevor had been 2 or 3 years ago and it had been even longer before that. What I am trying to say is that time had gone by for both Trevor and me. About two months ago, a very touching moment occurred for me with the receipt of a wedding invitation from my Little Brother, Trevor, who is now 27 years of age. I attended Trevor's wedding on August 21, 1999 in Summerside, PEI and was overwhelmed by how much he had grown and how he had become such a fine gentleman. Trevor could not have found a more wonderful wife. It was a match made in heaven. I am very happy for him. While I was at the wedding I was humbled by several of Trevor's relatives and friends who had remarked that Trevor spoke of me often. I felt like a celebrity. Little did I know that the friendship developed from the weekly get togethers would mean so much to Trevor that after 15 years, he would remember me with an invitation to his wedding. It just goes to show what a little bit of time spent with a child means to them. It is also important to know that this friendship is genuine and is not a result of Trevor having been treated to costly outings. Most activities were very simple but it was the special attention given to him that made the friendship last. This certainly has been the greatest reward from my time as a Big Brother. In future, both Trevor and I plan to visit each other whenever the opportunity presents itself. In conclusion, I wish to say that this experience has provided me with a good feeling inside and has caused me to reevaluate the quantity and quality of time spent with my own children. Back to top Lisa (former Little Sister and an In-School Mentor) In 1981, I had the good fortune of being matched with a great Big Sister. Over the course of our 6 year match, Geneva and I shared many experiences: swimming, cooking, travelling and just chatting and enjoying each other's company. Geneva organized different learning opportunities for me such as enrolling me in a YMCA program, giving me a chance to try racquetball and curling, and getting Kinsmen sponsorship for me to attend the Visiting Cousins and Family Kin programs at Kings Landing. She had a part in shaping who I am today. I can't say enough about what the Big Brothers Big Sister program means to kids. Just four hours a week spending time listening, and sharing has an immense impact. It can be an experience that children can take with them through their lives, long after an official match ends. Geneva and I remain good friends and I see her as a mentor as I embark on my professional life. Even if circumstances didn't allow for a continued relationship, the times I remember as a child would be enough to say the program WORKS! I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Geneva for her friendship and the opportunities she has sought out for me, the wonderful people at the Big Brothers-Big Sisters organization for their support and genuine interest in our match, and my mother who saw the value in the program and who always encourages me to follow the path I chose to happiness. Back to top Geneva (former Big Sister) To have a positive influence in a child's life should be the aim of every adult, whether it's their own child or that of someone else. Big Brothers-Big Sisters affords those adults with that aim an excellent opportunity to be an important part of a child's development. I first met my little sister, Lisa, when she was ten years old - that was 19 years ago, I still see her regularly and we still enjoy doing things together. It has been a mutually agreeable experience and I take pride in the accomplishments she has made and in the fact that I have, in some way, contributed to her success as a young adult. Big Brothers-Big Sisters provides young children with a dimension that might not necessarily be available to them in a single parent family, it gives them an outside influence by a dedicated adult. One should not think the rewards go only to the child, because the adult who volunteers reaps many rewards. I would recommend the program to anyone with a desire to be a positive influence to someone who will, without realizing it, reward you well for your efforts. Back to top BIG DIFFERENCE From a Mom's perspective by Brenda A number of years ago I arrived in the city not knowing a soul. I knew it was going to be difficult with two small children. In my search for support and encouragement I found "Big Brothers-Big Sisters'. My initial meeting with the organization left me amazed that others in the community would want to be involved in such a special way. The impact that adults have on a child's life is unbelievable and to have this special organization to match a child with that special adult is more than words can explain. I decided to go back to school and was accepted by a local university. I began my degree and the first year was unbelievable…..studying, reports due, bills, children's homework….it was hard! At the end of my first year I received a phone call that would change it all! My oldest son Clayton, then 7 years old, was blessed with a Big Brother, Barry. I remember the first day they went off together like it was yesterday. I was so nervous, unsure, and protective….was he going to have fun, will he be gone long, will he be scared, what if he thinks I am leaving him for good…..all these thoughts! The staff at Big Brothers-Big Sisters were great, my separation anxiety must have drove them crazy, their reassurance was something that was really needed and they knew just what to say to make me feel better. Barry and Clayton went off on their first visit to meet Barry's family and so the friendship began. Clayton came home with the greatest stories and had the time of his life. It was not long when Clayton's younger brother Justin wanted to find out what this special visit was all about. One visit he was permitted to tag along and meet Barry's family. This would be the second child they would bring under their wings. Barry's wife MaryAnn fell head over heals for my little Justin and unofficially became his "Big". In the months and years to come the boys were both treated like kings. The special attention they received from Barry and MaryAnn had such an impact. To this day if they do anything that is not deemed appropriate, or bring home a grade from school that is not that great, they want to know if I am going to tell Barry. It is these types of things that have made such a difference. Knowing that someone cares so much, having someone so special to look up to. Barry has given the boys things they would have never experienced, for example, he introduced them to hockey and the importance of learning team spirit and commitment. They have had the opportunity to golf, sail, fish, and even travel. The next 3 years of university was much more rewarding and what a big difference. Without the kind, generous, loving support of their whole family I don't think I would have ever finished my degree. Barry and MaryAnn provided much need support for myself and at the same time showed my children such a loving family environment. Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter…..all of the important family gathering we were always welcome and made to feel like part of the family. The special things were unforgettable, my birthday and Mothers Day getting wonderful things that made me feel special and knowing the boys could not have done it on their own. This experience has shown the boys how to be giving and caring of others. I have finished my university degree and have recently remarried to a wonderful man who has a special place in his heart for the "whole" family, Clayton, Justin, and Barry, MaryAnn, and their three wonderful daughters Kate, Allison, and Karen. Barry is one of the most important people in our lives and I am sure this will be forever. My sincere thank you to "Big-Brothers-Big-Sisters" and to all the Bigs who make such a difference in a Mom's life.