Big Sister Honored by the Mentoring Partnership

A Big Sister in our program, Heidi Semmer, has been selected as this year's recipient of "The Excellence in Mentoring Award" by the Mentoring Partnership. She will be recognized at their Magic of Mentoring event on October 18. Heidi has been matched since 2001 to Little Brother Damon. Heidi’s mother was a Big Sister for several years in the 90's.

Below is an excerpt from the nomination letter submitted by her Match Support Specialist, Kristine Pace:

“Heidi and Damon’s match started out as most do. Enjoying movies, bowling, the zoo, and going out to eat. Heidi has a way to make every outing special and to make Damon feel like the most important kid in the world!

Being matched hasn’t always been easy, but it is through the tough times where a relationship will grow. In 2004, when Damon was just 10 years old, his mother lost her courageous battle with Lupus. Heidi was right by Damon’s side, helping him grieve, cope, and adjust to this new life.

When Damon’s grades began to suffer, Heidi established a daily routine where she would call Damon each day on her way home from work to work on his homework together over the phone. If needed, she would stop by his house to help him with his studies. As you would expect, with this added attention, his grades did improve.

Heidi has always been very creative in the types of outings she and Damon participate in. Damon demonstrated a skill and interest in golf so Heidi enrolled him in the First Tee golf program (through a partnership with BBBS). Heidi also arranged for Damon to participate in basketball camp this past summer. Both are avid readers and the two created a project for the Celebration of Reading Program focusing on the book Ann Frank.

As you can see, Heidi truly represents what the magic of mentoring can accomplish. She has made a difference in our community and most definitely to her little brother Damon.”