BBBSNEW Blog

January 2019 Match of the Month Door County | Sara Quigley & Alaina

January 1, 2019

 

Each month, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Wisconsin shines a light on the relationships that we are helping build within our community. Please help us congratulate Big Sister Sara Quigley of Brussels and her Little Sister Alaina of Maplewood — our Door County Match of the Month for January.

Where did you hear about Big Brothers Big Sisters?

Sara Quigley: TV, radio ads, other advertising. However, I was at a business conference in Dallas when they brought Bigs and Littles up on stage to discuss how Big Brothers Big Sisters had changed their lives. I left that day with a strong tug at my heartstrings to become a Big and make a difference.

Why did you what to have a Big Sister?

Alaina: To have fun.

What do you do when you spend time together?

SQ: It varies by the week. We have lunch, then either work on an art project, go outside for a walk in the woods, play games or work on homework.

What is your favorite memory with your Big?

A: Playing Apples to Apples and doing Bowl For Kids’ Sake. Bowling with Sara, too.

Is there something in particular that stands out as a memorable time with your Little?

SQ: Over the past few years, there have been a few every year. The last day back after break is by far my favorite day. The smile on her face is huge and she was up for a huge hug! That feeling makes me understand how important it is to be a Big.

Our weekly meetings – art projects are my favorite thing to do with her. Watching her progress and teaching her new skills is a great feeling as well!

Is there something you would like to do together in the future, and why?

A: Maybe in the future I could teach Sara gymnastics.

Is there something in the future that you would like to do together, or that you look forward to experiencing together?

SQ: Anything that will continue to guide my Little in a positive direction. I want her to try all things so she knows that with hard work and persistence – anything is possible.

 What have you enjoyed about being a Big?

SQ: Knowing that I am sharing a lasting experience with a child, making a difference in her life. To see that huge smile and excitement when she sees I am there to pick her up for our meeting makes any day an amazing day no matter what did or did not happen before that moment.

What is something that you learned from your Big?

A: How to make 3D snowflakes, pumpkins, ghosts and stars. I also learned that doing homework is easier with my Big.

 In what way has being matched with a Little affected your life?

SQ: It gives me a positive feeling. To see her smiling and enjoying the time and things we do together reaffirms I’m right where I belong.

How has being matched with a Big made a difference for you?

A: I get impatient waiting for our meetings. They are fun!

What would you say to others about Big Brothers Big Sisters and to others who are thinking about becoming a Big?

SQ: Do it! Don’t wait!