Trempealeau County Success Story 2011

We are honored to present the story of Lauren H. and David O, as a sucess story that takes plae every week in the halls of Eleva-Strum Elementary School in Eleva, WI. This story began ti unfold in teh fall of 2009 when Lauren, then a 4th grader, was matched with David, then a 10th grader in partnering mentorship program provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters. These are their stories.

 Lauren, an only child, was born to drug addiction parents in the state of Florida who eventually were incarcerated and abdicated their parental rights. Lauren was lovingly adopted as a 3 year old by his father's cousin, Tim and his wife moved to Wisconsin. Lauren came to his new family as a child who had never bonded with a caregiver and suffered from an attachment disorder, who was filled with anxiety and behavioral delays with social/emotional implications.

David, on the other hand, was born to two highly educated professionals who provided him with a rural environment and constant nurturing. He is the oldest of three children but came to the educational environment with socially immature behaviors that caused him to be ousted by his peers on numerous occasions. David was, however, likeable and worked hard to learn new social skills.

The relationship became one of friendship and fun; quiet talks, homework, games of basketball and working out everyday elements that were troubling. Lauren has become much more comfortable in a group setting as has David; both have seen noticable improvement in their academic scores and their families comment on the change seen in their home environment as a result of this school-based friendship. David has stepped out of high school mascot and joined athletic endeavors with much success. Both have truly "blossomed" in these past two years.

This year they will conclude their match and we hope will go forth deeply changed and rewarded by the story of thier time together as "brothers". Thank you for your consideration of this success story.

Big Brothers Big Sisters, Winona Office Succcess Story (2011)

Evan was referred to Big Brothers Big Sisters program in 2007 by his Grandmother Agnes (his primary caregiver). Evan's mother passed away when he was a little boy and his dad has never been a part of his life. When Agnes referred him, she explained, "He's twelve and really just needs another adult in his life, preferably a man who could offer some guidance." She hoped that Big Brother could provide Evan with help in regards to school work, concentrating, and getting his work done.In addition, she hoped that it would provide Evan with someone to talk to and confide in; someone who could potentially be a lifelong friend. Evan was matched with Jamie; a fun, down to earth, music-loving guy. They are a "perfect match" in Grandma's words.

During the three years they've been matched, Jamie and Evan have learned a great deal about what's important when involved in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Jamie explains that he knew entering the match that "Evan wasn't the kind of kid that came from a terrible home or rough circumstances. He was just a kid that needed one more adult in his life. So going in, it wasn't about making big changes quickly; it was more about creating longevity and a truly deep friendship. "When talking with Evan's grandmother, it's clear that she has noticed positive changes in Evan from the beginning of the match. For example, he has always struggled with school, mainly with focusing issues and getting tasks accomlished. However, since being matched with Jamie, she explains that he still struggles, but he is more motivated now and really desires to do better overall.

Evan, too, seems happy about his match with Jamie. He talks about doing many things together, such as cooking, listening to music, playing guitar, and even tackling the occasional shoveling job after a Minnesota snow storm. Often, when thinking about what matches do together, we hear stories about going to a waterpark or shopping, going to concerts or sporting events. And while those things are great for kids to experience, it's important to also remember the little things matches do together. Jamie and Evan enjoy doing things that focus on what they appreciate the most.

Jamie explains that one of the biggest accompishments he believes Evan has made has been his transition form Riverway School to the public high school. The transition from the free flow, learn-at-your-own-pace structure at Riverway School to a more guided, well-stuctured environment in the public high school forced Even to learn to adjust to new surroundings and to go with the flow of learning in a more "real life, adult-type situations." Jamie explains that he was so proud to see how Evan handled the transition because it shows that he will be able to adjust to things later in adulthood. In addition, Evan is now 15 and is talking about college, something his Grandmother is "happy to see!"

Evan has also made great strides in his own development in terms of how he sees those around him. Jamie points out that one of the things he has noticed recently is that Evan seems to be "talking less about the group of kids he knows he should't be hanging around with and is acting more like the kids he has always wanted to be like." Jamie explains this is refreshing to see because it shows how far he has come in their three years together; recognizing that "acting out" isn't going to get him anywhere and that people are much more proud of him when he does well. Jamie states that, "Evan has always been intelligent, funny, respectful, and a cool kid, but now there are obvious changes in his outlook on life, which is very positive and encouraging.

Jamie and Evan have a story much like many of the matches found in our program. They like many of the same things, they enjoy each other's company, and small changes are seen every day. After all, it's not about the things matches do together, it's about the positive outcomes that help ensure these kids become caring and competent adults. Perhaps the words that  come from mentors sum it up best, "We don't make momentous breakthroughs. It is just my hope that Evan can grow into a responsible, caring man. I think he's well on his way."