Meet Big Sister Misti! Misti has been matched in our community-based program in Vanderburgh County since September of 2023! Misti enrolled in the Big Brothers Big Sisters
program because she wanted to make a positive impact in her community!
We asked Misti to share her thoughts and becoming a Big Sister in our program and mentors she has had along the way! Take a look at what Misti had to share with us …
What inspired you to become a mentor through BBBS?
The best job in the world is being a mom! As my need for daily parenting lessened I thought about how I might be able to help other children. I wanted to make a difference and be a reliable constant for a little. I feel like the best version of myself shows true when I am mentoring or visiting with younger people.
What were you most nervous about before you met your little?
What would we talk about and how would we get a relationship started? I was also a little nervous about how long it would take for us to open up to each other.
What was your first meeting like?
The first time we did the “Getting to Know each other" exercise she was quiet and had her Mom do all of the talking for her. (In reality she is quite talkative!) I remember being excited about our common interest but curious if she was normally this shy.
What is your favorite memory that you and your Little have made together?
My favorite memory thus far is our pizza picnic day. Our first outing without Khrista with BBBS (who we affectionately call boss lady). We had a delicious dinner of pizza and soda. Since we had time to spare we decided to play on the playground. This is what we like to call “the day she tried to end me” it is all fun and games running, swinging, laughing, chasing and sliding (girl has some major energy going on).
Until, my lungs decided to remind me that I am no longer a child. Once I caught my breath we just laughed about the event saying we would always remember this day.
We were just talking about this last week and she agrees it was the best outing and we needed to try a repeat with less lung drama.
Have you seen any changes in your Little since being matched?
She is absolutely amazing but a little quiet at first. She has begun to open up and “spill the tea” about school and friends. She has an amazing sense of humor and a very loving personality. She has let her guard down and is herself around me. I love to hear her sing!
What is your favorite part of being matched?
I have a new LITTLE best friend. There is nothing better than talking and laughing with your bestie! Sometimes as an adult with grown children I forget to find the FUN in every day. My little cracks me up.
What has been the hardest part of being matched?
I find the hardest part is finding time. My little is amazing and fun to be around, however she would like to spend more time than I have available due to work travel.
Do you ever feel discouraged in your match and how do you overcome that?
My little has a personal obstacle that she is trying to overcome. I was getting discouraged when she was not wanting my help. I overcame the situation by reminding myself that I am a mentor not a parent. I am here to help when she needs or wants my help. She knows I’m here when she needs me and with space has allowed me to help on a few occasions.
What has your Little taught you about life?
She has reminded me the best experience comes from being out of your comfort zone. Celebrate all victories no matter the size of the win.
Kommentare