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Featured Stories
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National Big Sister of the Year 2002
"Sometimes I forget that Crystal isn’t my real sister. I say, this is my little sister, Crystal," when I introduce her. We wear silver necklaces that say "Big Sister' and "Little Sister." But, really, she was given to me by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona, and because of that, we’re best friends.
Crystal was 8 when I got her. I took her to her first museum, her first concert and on her first plane ride. I’ve attended dance recitals, orchestra concerts, and softball and volleyball games. I shoot rolls of film.
She’s now 13 and still holds my hand.
Cystal has slowed me down, made me listen to more music, watch more G-rated movies and eat more ice cream. "I don’t care what we do as long as I’m with you, she says." |
"I believe she can do anything and now she does too." - Karina Bland, National Big Sister of the Year |
"Ted & Mark began their match at San Marcos Elementary in partnership with Intel Corporation where Ted is employed" |
Corporate Sponsorship helps make matches
Big Brother Ted and Little Brother Mark have been matched for two years now, but their friendship seems stronger than length would suggest. They began their match at San Marcos Elementary in partnership with Intel Corporation where Ted is employed. Mark was a third grade student then, and a bit of a troublemaker on campus.
Ted has two daughters of his own, and wanted to build a friendship with a boy, but little did he know what a special place Mark would occupy in his life in such a short time. The two are a perfect fit for each other; they are both playful and zany, and have a passion for all things car and plane related. Ted has taken Mark to practically every car and motorcycle show in the Valley since they’ve been matched, and Mark also got the opportunity to fly a plane courtesy of our agency event, Wings for a New Generation.
Ted is a devoted mentor to Mark as well; he talks with his teacher by e-mail every week and helps Mark with his studies during lunch hour. Due in large part to Ted’s care and attention, Mark has improved his behavior and performance at school this year, and has become a mature and responsible student. Ted and Mark will roll their eyes and laugh when they read this article, but one thing’s for sure: theirs is a friendship that brings magic to their lives, and will last for years to come. | |
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