The following story was provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine, a United Way partner. Your United Way donations support this program.

Big Brother Chris and Little Brother Evan have been matched since September 2017. During the last three years, the two have enjoyed playing basketball, going on hikes, playing cribbage and other card games, and most importantly, building a friendship. Evan’s mother shared, "The match is great.

Evan loves Chris, and I couldn't be happier. The connection is what's important." Chris’s take on the last three years, "to watch someone grow, mature and watch them become somebody else—you are taking an active part in that, and you become part of their life."

While Evan continues to endure the pandemic and significant changes to his routine, he and Chris still make time to connect on a regular basis. Although he cannot wait to see his Big Brother again in person, he is grateful to have someone to talk to and look forward to connecting with again. It gives a little bit of normal in a very abnormal time.