Project MARS/AmeriCorps collects “Great Stories” from its members in which they reflect on their experiences mentoring in the classroom and the progress they see in students. This month’s story was written by Renee Deweese Sheppard, pictured below.
This great story focuses on a Big named Will and a Little named Marquavis. I had the pleasure of teaching Will from kindergarten through 5th grade (Will attended the school where I was the librarian). This year, I reconnected with Will as his school engagement coordinator with Project MARS.
Will has been in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program for two years, and he has had the same Little this entire time. Will’s goal was to create a nurturing relationship and to have an impact on his Little’s life.
Will visits Marquavis every week without fail. If his school and work schedule prevent him from visiting at their set time, they make a plan to visit later in the week. Every week he makes sure Marquavis has one-on-one time to study and to share, and always makes sure Marquavis feels important and seen. He has even given him the opportunity to attend football and basketball games when his Big Brother was playing.
The first time I met with Marquavis, he was really quiet and somewhat withdrawn. When I saw him a week ago, we talked non-stop for a half-hour! I feel very certain that his new self-confidence is a result of his visits with Will. I have seen Will grow into a responsible and caring young man.
Renee Deweese Sheppard
