PENSACOLA, Fla. – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida announces that Big Sister Laureen Wicker was selected as the Escambia County 2019 Big of the Year. Big Brothers Big Sisters staff chose Laureen for this honor because she is dedicated and passionate about the importance of mentorship especially for her Little, Avis.
Avis’ mom enrolled her in the program because Avis is an only child and she wanted someone that could teach her the importance of school along with show her the many facets of life. Avis’s mom is disabled and is not able to do as much as she would like to with Avis. Due to a past of neglect and
abandonment issues, Avis needed a Big that would be fully committed, consistent, open, and easily approachable. “I remembered thinking ‘This little girl deserves all that Life has to offer her and I’m going to help her get it!’” Says Laureen.
On September 16th, 2016, Laureen and Avis were matched, and their relationship began to blossom right away. Their first match meeting started out with a friendly game of Uno which has now become an ongoing competition between them. They also enjoy going to the park, playing games, and dining at McDonald’s.
Last year Avis received A/B honor roll for the first time ever and then maintained that honor roll the entire school year. Last year Avis joined the swim team and absolutely loves it. She’s entered in competitions and has even won medals. With the help from her Big Sister, she has grown so much
socially and emotionally over the last three years.
“Avis is a joy and it’s been a pleasure getting to know her. She has matured and grown to be a wonderful young lady.” Says Laureen. Avis and her mom describe Laureen as part of their family and they are so thankful that she is in their life.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida has been the area’s leader in one-to-one mentoring for 30 years by serving children ages K to 18. Our mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Last year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of
Northwest Florida served 660 children in Northwest Florida.