Match Story: Linda & Saliha

A few years into retirement, Linda decided to become a Big Sister. She had always enjoyed working with young people and was looking for a meaningful way to give back to the community while empowering a local youth – and she has certainly done just that! Linda and Saliha embark on a variety of adventures each month. Together, they regularly participate in many of our program offerings, including Big Benefits and the Summer Adventure Quest.

Not long after being matched with Saliha, Linda share that “Becoming a Big Sister has easily been one of the highlights of my retirement. Although initially I worried I was ‘too old’ to be a meaningful presence in a Little's life, my Little has taught me otherwise.”

As summer has geared up, Linda also shared some highlights as to how she and Saliha approach their activities, including the Summer Adventure Quest and use of the Big Benefits program.

“Saliha and I are most excited about seeing our points accumulate in the Summer Adventure Quest! I strive to introduce Saliha to new activities and adventures, and while she is pretty game to try something new, the challenge of a ‘competition’ to win prizes helps keep her motivated. Not all our activities end up being favorites for her, so the recognition for trying is positive feedback that goes a long way. Her favorite activity so far has been the kayaking and swimming, while trying the snack box from Universal Yums. (Snacks, another big positive LOL) She is also looking forward to the Loaves and Fishes class (not a new activity as we participated in the winter.) In fact, we had hoped to do it again anyway so were happy to see it listed as a Quest activity.

I have appreciated all the suggestions and discounts that have been offered to us throughout our Match time. Besides the Loaves and Fishes cooking class, we have also especially enjoyed Alamo Draft House movie tickets, Boar's Head Christmas Light show, and Firefly 2-for-1 discounts. But there are so many more adventures we've shared that have been winners in large or small ways. 

All the programs and offerings help me with additional ideas for our time spent together, as well as allowing us to do things in a most cost effective way, with either suggestions for free activities or to help make 'pay for entry' activities affordable. It also gives me opportunity to instill ideas of value, budget, and appreciation for gifts from others with her. Thank you BBBS for all the support you provide to our Match.”