Alycia & Kim

While the average mentoring relationship at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampden County lasts almost two and a half years, there are many that last two or three times longer than that. Big Sister Kim Weir and her Little Sister Alycia are certainly living proof of that. June of 2009 marks the ninth year of their mentoring relationship, and there are no signs of it ending any time soon.

After being together for so many years, Kim and Alycia have really done it all, so these days they tend to stick to the basics and are pretty laid back about making plans to get together. Most often, you’ll find them watching a movie (at home or at the theater), having a bite to eat, or taking a trip to the beach (Rocky Neck Beach in Connecticut is their favorite). According to Kim, “I usually let her choose what we do, but it usually involves eating.” Alycia very much values her experience with Kim and readily speaks up about the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. “I talked to someone recently about getting a Big. I told him that you have a lot of fun. You go to the movies, swimming, the mall, or out to eat. You also get to go to your Big’s house and hang out. They take you golfing or fishing if you like that sort of thing. It gets even better if you stay matched for a long time.” Alycia certainly has first-hand experience when it comes to the benefits of staying matched for a long time!

Already a young woman, Alycia can see some of the things that her friendship with Kim has done for her. “Before Kim, I didn’t have anything to do. Now I have someone I can do stuff with and someone I can tell everything to. I’ve been with her so long; I think of her as another mom. I love her.” Currently, Alycia attends Renaissance High School in Springfield. She’s finishing up the ninth grade and has aspirations to be a pediatrician. Until the day of this interview, Kim didn’t know about Alycia’s plans, and one just couldn’t help but notice the glimmer of pride in Kim’s eyes. In school, Alycia likes science and language arts, certainly a winning combination of the budding pediatrician.

Alycia hasn’t been having all the fun, though. The nine years have also been a real joy for Kim. “Being a Big Sister is very rewarding and gives kids a chance to talk to someone about things they might not normally get to talk about. Alycia is really a great, great young lady, and I help her to continue to maintain her self esteem.” Kim values the power of programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters. In fact, volunteerism seems to be something that runs in the family. Kim explained how her daughter has also become a Big Sister. “I was telling her how rewarding the program is. She really likes the idea of mentoring and was eager to sign up to be a Big Sister the minute she became of age.” Now, Kim’s daughter has had a Little Sister for nearly two and a half years.

All in all, Kim and Alycia have both enjoyed their experiences together, and the future looks a whole lot brighter for this Little Sister. As she gets closer to taking the plunge into college, Alycia can move ahead with confidence knowing that Kim will be there every step of the way.