Adrionna, or “Addie,” was a quiet girl who often lingered on the sidelines in her lively household full of siblings. While her sisters bonded, Addie found herself craving the one-on-one attention every kid needs. Her mom noticed this and realized that Addie would thrive with someone who could make her feel seen and valued. Having just regained custody of Addie and her sister, her mom wanted to give Addie opportunities she couldn’t always provide -experiences, support, and a caring presence to confide in. That’s when Big Brothers Big Sisters introduced Addie to Marci – someone just for her.

From that day, Marci continually encourages Addie to explore her interests, helping her true personality shine. And, with every project and conversation, Marci became not just a mentor but like family, a trusted friend that Addie could rely on.

“Children must be taught how to think,

not what to think.”

— Margaret Mead

Through this support, Addie’s self-esteem has blossomed. She’s more confident, eager to try new things, and sees herself in a positive light. Where she once hesitated, Addie now engages in school, passing her classes and embracing challenges with determination.

Her mom shares how proud she is of Addie’s growth and notes how Marci has filled in support, encouragement, and trust, especially in moments when Addie needed someone to turn to beyond family. “Marci has picked up my slack in so many areas,” Addie’s mom admiringly says, grateful for Marci’s guidance and the sense of family she brings.

As Addie grows older, their conversations deepen. Marci remembers that, at eight years old, it was all about fun and helping Addie find her place in a busy household. Now, they talk about Addie’s dreams. Marci encourages her to imagine a future without limits, even college. Recently, Addie surprised Marci by saying, “When I get older, I’m going to CMU.” Marci’s heart swelled, seeing Addie not only setting her sights high but truly beginning to view herself as capable and worthy.

Their story reminds us of the transformative power of mentorship. Through Marci’s kindness, humor, and unwavering belief in her, Addie now sees a world of possibilities within reach. And while Marci set out to make a difference in Addie’s life, their journey together has shown that the impact flows both ways, creating a bond that fuels both their futures.

Adrionna, or “Addie,” was a quiet girl who often lingered on the sidelines in her lively household full of siblings. While her sisters bonded, Addie found herself craving the one-on-one attention every kid needs. Her mom noticed this and realized that Addie would thrive with someone who could make her feel seen and valued. Having just regained custody of Addie and her sister, her mom wanted to give Addie opportunities she couldn’t always provide -experiences, support, and a caring presence to confide in. That’s when Big Brothers Big Sisters introduced Addie to Marci – someone just for her.

From that day, Marci continually encourages Addie to explore her interests, helping her true personality shine. And, with every project and conversation, Marci became not just a mentor but like family, a trusted friend that Addie could rely on.

Through this support, Addie’s self-esteem has blossomed. She’s more confident, eager to try new things, and sees herself in a positive light. Where she once hesitated, Addie now engages in school, passing her classes and embracing challenges with determination.

Her mom shares how proud she is of Addie’s growth and notes how Marci has filled in support, encouragement, and trust, especially in moments when Addie needed someone to turn to beyond family. “Marci has picked up my slack in so many areas,” Addie’s mom admiringly says, grateful for Marci’s guidance and the sense of family she brings.

“Children must be taught how to think,

not what to think.”
— Margaret Mead

As Addie grows older, their conversations deepen. Marci remembers that, at eight years old, it was all about fun and helping Addie find her place in a busy household. Now, they talk about Addie’s dreams. Marci encourages her to imagine a future without limits, even college. Recently, Addie surprised Marci by saying, “When I get older, I’m going to CMU.” Marci’s heart swelled, seeing Addie not only setting her sights high but truly beginning to view herself as capable and worthy.

Their story reminds us of the transformative power of mentorship. Through Marci’s kindness, humor, and unwavering belief in her, Addie now sees a world of possibilities within reach. And while Marci set out to make a difference in Addie’s life, their journey together has shown that the impact flows both ways, creating a bond that fuels both their futures.