The following account was provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine, a United Way partner program.

Liam was a typical third-grade boy who loved Pokemon cards, playing Jenga and tossing a football. He was often rambunctious and distracting in school, described by adults as having behavioral challenges. His family worried he was unhappy and angry at such a young age. That all changed when he met Jason, a high-school mentor from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine (BBBS).

The two met faithfully for an hour every week after school to talk about sports and friends, play Pokemon games, and simply hang out together. A year later, Liam’s mother Laura says her son has changed dramatically for the better.

“He is happy and much more easy-going,” she says of Liam. “I felt like all of my time was spent trying to keep the peace at home. Now we are enjoying our time together. The only change was getting him into the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Liam thinks the world of Jason. It has been a life saver.”

What a difference that one year can make in the life of a child. BBBS helps clear the way for kids like Liam to be a happy, successful and productive member of our community. “Littles” in the program have higher self-esteem, better grades, stay in school, and are less likely to try substances or to end up in the juvenile justice system. They have better relationships and higher aspirations.

A survey asked former Littles (now adults) how BBBS impacted their lives, and 90 percent said their “Big” made them feel better about themselves. In addition, 81 percent reported that their Big changed their perspective on life.

United Way of Kennebec Valley is proud to partner with BBBS to support children in the Kennebec Valley facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported 1-to-1 relationships that change their lives for the better. For more information about becoming a Big, enrolling a child, or volunteering, contact 207-236-BBBS (2227) or visit bbbsmidmaine.org.

When you donate to United Way, this is a program that you are supporting.