IMPACT! Recognizing the Value of Relationships

A lifetime of success, including a rewarding career that provides financial stability, begins with the right kind of guidance at a young age. Our partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Jackson County helped one young man reflect on how his pathway changed for the better:

Jim and his “Little,” Mark, have been matched for two years. Mark recently turned 18 and was ready to move on from that mentor relationship. He had this to say about the value of Jim’s support: “Jim has been such a great support and he will always be a part of my life. I would like to see him go and change someone else’s life the way he changed mine.” Mark explained that when he applied to get a Big Brother, he did not have any self-confidence or self-love, and he was in a really dark place. Mark went on to explain that he now has friends and a girlfriend, he values his schooling, and he will always have Jim in his life. At their closure meeting, Mark sincerely thanked BBBS and Jim for changing his life and giving him the hope and confidence he needed to be where he is today.

Mark is on his way toward a successful life thanks to Jim, BBBS and United Way. Your continued support of our work makes outcomes like this possible.