Alumni Connection is a vibrant community of former mentors, mentees, and supporters who have been a part of the organization’s life-changing work. This group fosters lasting relationships by keeping alumni connected, engaged, and informed about the ongoing impact of mentoring in the community. Through networking events, volunteer opportunities, and social gatherings, members stay connected with the mission and each other, while continuing to support the next generation of Bigs and Littles. The Alumni Connection Group provides an opportunity to celebrate successes, share experiences, and make a lasting difference in the lives of youth! If you are interested to learn more, please inquire here – Alumni Questionnaire
January is National Mentoring month and the week of the 15th through the 19th is Alumni Week! We would like to take this time to share an Alumni Match Story!
This is from Little Sister, Elizabeth, who is now thriving in her full adulthood.
“Tall” was all that would come to mind when asked my first impression of Danette who stood 5’10 over my very small frame. I was 7 years old when I was matched with my Big Sister. Today “selfless” is the best way to describe her. However, I have only grown to 5’2 so “tall” still applies. She heard of BBBSAZ from a partnership with her job that was close in distance to my elementary school. I was a shy and anxious child, and I remember answering her questions softly, if I answered at all during our first meet-up. Still, she committed to spending a few lunches with me and eventually I was the one talking her ear off. I was a gifted student since a young age but being the youngest daughter of a non-English speaking mother in a rough community, I didn’t have the right tools. From day one, Danette saw my potential and took me under her wing.
When I moved to a school away from her job, I thought our relationship would end, but fortunately she still showed up at lunch time. Shortly after, it went from time at school, to weekends and family gatherings. Danette not only helped me, but those closest to me. Even with her own economic and life problems she helped us secure a vehicle and a roof over my family’s heads. Danette has been one of my greatest resources for my education. She helped me join a scholarship program called Washington Street Foundation, extending her mentorship commitment to my graduating date.
It is now nearly 20 years later, I’m 28, we live in different states, but nothing has changed. Every time we meet up, we pick up right where we left off. She has been a part of my celebratory moments like graduating and being awarded my scholarship. More importantly, she stayed by my side during obstacles like my grades falling and a teen pregnancy. She never gave up on me. We’ve experienced and shared family losses, career hardships, love, heartbreaks, and motherhood. Danette gave up years of her life for mine expecting nothing in return. She has taught me to be the best resource for my daughter and the selflessness of motherhood. BBBS gave me more than mentorship, BBBS provided me with a second mother.”
