School Buddies Alexis and Skylar
Big Sister Alexis’ journey with Big Brothers Big Sisters began with a Facebook ad. As a former healthcare worker and now stay-at-home parent, Alexis realized the School Buddies program could give her exactly what she was looking for at the time. She had always loved helping and interacting with others, and through Big Brothers Big Sisters, she could continue to do so. Instead of feeling nervous, Alexis went into her match confident after the easy process of getting matched and the understanding staff walked her through what to expect.
When Alexis left the healthcare field, one thing she left behind was getting to assist and play games with her residents every day. As a School Buddy, she gets that same kind of interaction, watching her Little Sister thrive in school and advocating for her when needed.
The match instantly clicked, and soon, there wasn’t a dull moment between the chatty School Buddy pair.
Candy Land! Mancala! There’s nothing better than some fun games between friends, and that’s exactly how Alexis and Skylar spend their lunchtime hangouts. Other times, the pair will put on a Disney movie (Frozen is their favorite!) or one of their favorite shows, like My Little Pony or Pokémon. Playing with the filters on Alexis’ phone and trying out all the funny faces never fails to send the elementary schooler into fits of laughter. But most of all, they love to chat and enjoy each other’s company, feeling unrushed and happy to give each other their full attention.
“We don't get any bored moments at all because she's comfortable. She can trust me, and I feel like she talks more and opens up more to me,” shared Alexis. “So overall, I feel like we've become really close, and I definitely think she leans on me like a big sister.”
Week by week, Alexis and Skyler got to know one another, and they continue to do so every outing. Alexis just learned that Skylar likes arts and crafts, so the pair plans to break out the finger-painting supplies soon!
Now, Skylar runs to greet Alexis with a big hug at the beginning of every hangout and lets her know that she missed her School Buddy! Alexis can tell that the elementary schooler looks forward to seeing her each week. Another difference she has noticed is her Little Sister’s happiness in the classroom.
“Before, I felt like she liked school, but she didn't really feel like she fit in... But now, she loves going back to her class,” said Alexis, whose goal is to help set her Little up for a good day.
Alexis reflects on her own elementary years, wishing she had someone there for her at her lunches. She’s happy to give that experience to someone else through School Buddies, being someone to lean on in the school year.
“I feel good, and I know that when I go see her, she looks forward to that, and that right there is enough to keep me going… I couldn't just wake up tomorrow and say I don't want to do this anymore,” she explained.
Be Big!
Alexis loves being a School Buddy, and she knows others would enjoy the program, too, if they just gave it a chance.
“Take that opportunity and chance, if you like helping others or just want to get out and do something,” said Alexis. “I feel like it's rewarding for everyone, and I wish I would have done it sooner.”
Learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs here or call 260-456-1600.
