Amy - "Mila has given me so much more in my life than I could ever give back to her."

Amy is a vibrant and fun young woman with multiple interests. She had been thinking about becoming a Big Sister for a long time. Then one day the experience presented itself to her, in the form of a "Big for a Day" event, hosted by Northern Chi Martial Arts Center where Amy is a member. "Big for a Day's" are occasions when children waiting for a mentor are paired with community members to take part in a fun activity. This situation provides an excellent opportunity for potential Bigs and mentors to learn what the program is about and helps to keep children on the wait list engaged with the agency. After Amy spoke with some of the Littles at the event and learned more about the agency she decided it was time to take the next steps and meet with BBBS staff for a volunteer interview.

In December of 2007 Amy was introduced to her Little Sister Mila. At age eleven Mila is a sweet, energetic child who is eager to try new things. She wanted a Big Sister who shares similar interests to enjoy fun activities with. Mila's wish was certainly granted through her pairing with Amy. "It's as if Mila was created just for me," Amy exclaimed when describing their relationship. The first time that the friends met Amy was very excited. Mila chimed in that she was nervous at first and then upon meeting Amy her feelings changed to pure excitement as well.

Amy and Mila enjoy so many activities together that it was difficult to list all of them. They laughed and rolled their eyes at each other while trying to conjure up the memories. Amy's family owns a camp on Tripp Lake in Poland, Maine where the pair likes to swim and kayak. Recently, Amy brought Mila to a big family reunion at the camp. They have been sailing in and around the Harpswell area. They enjoyed watching The Boston Pops with Portland Symphony Orchestra at Thomas Point Beach while eating a picnic dinner. Recently the friends took a day trip to Boothbay Harbor and visited the Maine State Aquarium. Amy is a long time volunteer of the Coastal Humane Society and brings Mila with her to care for the animals. Mila also spends time with Amy's mother who has taught her how to knit and helped her and Amy put together mini greenhouses. Mila is always invited to dinners with Amy's family. Amy and Mila's newest adventure has brought the friends into the world of horseback riding, and Mila is now taking weekly lessons at Gray's Equestrian Training in Bowdoinham. The friends have a long term goal of going on a horseback trail ride.

During the school year Amy helps Mila with her assignments and projects. Sometimes they go to the library to do research. They enjoy reading out loud to each other. Amy has noticed that Mila's grades are up and her reading skills have improved. Amy also said that Mila has become a stronger swimmer and her physical strength always impresses her.

When asked how she feels about Amy, Mila shared that, "she likes to do the same kinds of things as me. She is nice and I always think about her. I'm lucky to have a Big Sister like her and she is patient with me." Amy laughed at this last statement as she feels that she is not a very patient person. Perhaps being matched with Mila has helped her to learn better skills in patience. Amy speaks fondly and proudly of Mila when sharing that, "Mila is extremely patient and kind. She is very bright. She is out-going and adventurous and will gladly try anything new at least once. My family has also benefitted from having Mila in our lives and she has become a cherished part. She is absolutely one of my very best friends."

For Amy and Mila joining the BBBS family meant gaining a new best friend. Are you ready to be matched? Contact the BBBS office today at: 729-7736 and learn about a "Little" friend in our community, school, or site-based programs who is waiting just for you.