Getting to Know Big Sister Hogan, Little Sister Chloe, and Mother Tyqunia
In October 2024, Big Sister Hogan, Little Sister Chloe, and Chloe’s mother Tyqunia embarked on their Match journey together. “Chloe had one of the biggest smiles I've ever seen; she was (and still is) full of energy and sunshine!” recalls Hogan of their first meeting. Chloe remembers that they took pictures together, and she “thought when we first met, I got a surprise that now I have a Big Sister that keeps me happy and makes me laugh and is fun!” For Tyqunia, she remembers that when “we first met her (Hogan), I just liked the energy she gave off; (it) was just – awesome! They have a happy vibe with each other. Little Chloe is always looking forward to meeting with her Big Sister Hogan!”
When asked about their favorite memories so far, it’s difficult for this mighty Match to choose one amongst the bevy of experiences they’ve shared. For Hogan, “Chloe and I have been to the Winter Wander at Boars Head Resort for the past 2 years, and each year is more magical. Chloe gets to see Santa and then dance to Christmas music!” As for Chloe, “My favorite memory is going on a picnic!” Tyqunia sometimes accompanies Chloe and Hogan on adventures and recalls “our first hang out was Halloween, and it was super dope – whenever we are around her she is so welcoming and happy!”
“Spending time with such a smart, creative, and kind human like Chloe,” is what Hogan feels is most rewarding about being a Big so far. “Also, watching how much Chloe learns and grows over such short periods of time. My activity with Chloe is always one of the highlights of my week; she is so fun and silly- we always laugh so much.”
“Love! Happy! Funny!” are the three words Chloe uses to describe Hogan. “It means a lot to me – she’s protecting me and making sure my surroundings are good. I like the fact that we go places. I like how every time she takes me somewhere fun – like Get Air!”
Tyqunia sees big impacts of this Match for Chloe and her family, including Chloe “just being able to be herself! She gets to get out and hang out without mom! This is a big step for her. She was a little shy in her first meeting people, and now she’s more open to meeting new people, and I thank Hogan for that. Chloe is very comfortable with Hogan. The impact on my family is just that Chloe is so much more open and willing to give them a try, and not being so withdrawn and shy. And now she’s more open – since she has been with Hogan. She loosened up a little. Grandma also adores Hogan!”
Hogan became a Big because she “had wonderful mentors growing up, and they taught me how important it is to have someone who is always on your team, no matter what. I wanted to provide the same support and mentorship I received to someone from the next generation.” Her advice for others considering becoming a Big? “Do it! It's incredibly rewarding and fun!”
Chloe and Tyqunia also have some advice for youth and their families considering becoming Littles. “I would give advice that it’s going to be fun and you will have a great time with your Big, and you get all your laughs out when you go with your Big!” Chloe shared. For Tyqunia, she says, “to listen – hear them out at BBBS, to know they are thorough and hear what they have to say about the Big. You may hear something you may not agree with – but give it a chance!”
