To the Editor:
This is my second year as a mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters, and there still hasn't been a dull moment.
I have been mentoring the same child from last year, and he has continued to find ways to make every noon hour we spend together a new challenge with new successes. This keeps things exciting for both of us, and I have loved being a part of my mentee's life as he experiences new things and comes across new obstacles.
Whether it is walking in the hallway, putting his old toy away before bringing out a new one, or even not losing his straw on the way to the mentor room, there is always something to celebrate. Watching him grow brings a feeling of success that is different from what you feel with your own accomplishments.
Noon hours spent with my mentee go by way quicker than you can imagine, once I get to the school I am immediately swept up in a whirlwind of imaginary dinosaurs chasing us over lava and under tables, puppets made of play dough attacking plastic monkeys, and high society ladies eating clay noodles; the best part is its all set to the sound track of the Cat in the Hat theme song sung in a robot voice by a six year old. When we aren't doing that, we sometimes go to the gym or the computer lab. Mostly, though, we just make crafts out of well literally anything within reach, including a zipper, one of my broken bracelets, and a shoe lace. There are plenty of supplies available in the mentor room, but sometimes my little guy likes to do things outside of the box. Now that I'm graduating and moving to Regina, I will no longer be able to be a part of my mentee's life.
Although it is kind of hard to imagine, I hope someone comes to take my place next year. Someone will need to continue what the mentorship program has started in this young child in order for him to keep making the amazing changes I've seen in him over the last two years. And it's not just him; there are several incredible mentors who are graduating this year that will need you guys to take their place.
If you don't want to take on a child one-on-one, sign up with a group of friends. I promise you will find the experience rewarding for everyone involved. If you've ever looked at your life, wondering if you can ever make a difference, become a mentor. The experience will change both of you.
Nicole Marchand, Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentor.
