Match Story:
Katina(Little Sister) and Ashley (Big Sister)

Little Sister Katina and Big Sister Ashley met in late October at J. Wallace James where they were matched in the School-Based mentoring program through a partnership with the Junior League. Katina is in the third grade and has been waiting excitedly for a Big Sister of her own. Ashley, one of several volunteers from the Junior League, has also been very excited to meet and share time with her Little. While excited, Katina was shy at first. But, once the ice was broken and conversation got moving they realized that they both love pizza and hate roaches. After visiting for a few minutes and learning more about each other’s likes and dislikes, Katina excitedly stopped Ashley and said, "WOW! We have SO much in common!"
Toward the end of the Match Initiation, Katina asked her Case Manager if she could speak with her privately. Ashley was a little surprised and wondered what Katina was going to say. So, Ashley respectfully stepped out of the room and Katina said very proudly and excitedly to her Case Manager that "Ashley is the best Big Sister in the world!" As they walked back to Katina's classroom so that Ashley could meet her teacher, Katina introduced Ashley, saying proudly "This is my big sister!" to all the teachers and students they passed. She was so proud to show off her Big Sister. When they parted, she gave Ashley a big hug and told her she missed her already. Ashley commented, too, on her way out that they have a lot in common and she thinks it's going to be a wonderful experience and a great match!