Community Service Builds Confidence

The Beauty of Giving Back


In just ten short months, Little Sister Jeovana has grown from being very quiet and reserved to being able to speak openly and confidently, says her Big Sister, Laquita. 
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What kinds of things have they done together that would lead to such positive growth? Laquita believes that giving back is one of the most character building things one can do; and she has made this the centerpiece of her match with Jeovana.  


When asked about why she makes it a point to have Jeovana’s help in giving back she said, “I want her to grow socially, culturally, and compassionately. The beautiful, yet simple gift of giving back is what I am most proud of to share with Jeovana.  I explained to Jeovana the beauty of helping others by way of volunteering. There are many things that Jeovana has yet to experience and I try to make it possible for her to do so. We talk about social issues, world issues, but we also find time to just act silly and laugh.” 


Laquita said that after she told Jeovana about volunteering with Meals on Wheels, Jeovana was eager to help.  She has now gone with her twice to deliver meals to the elderly and those in need in the Ann Arbor area.  Jeovana’s role is to organize the meals while Laquita drives.  When asked about how Jeovana interacted with the clients, Laquita says, “She was friendly to the people we delivered to and seemed genuinely happy to help. Throughout the delivery process, she constantly told me how cool and good it felt to help those in need".


Jeovana and Laquita's match is a great example of social competencies in action.  Their story highlights Jeovana's development of interpersonal competencies; her empathy, sensitivity, and friendship skills. Interpersonal Competencies are just one of the 40 building blocks of development that researchers have identified to help young people grow into healthy, caring and responsible adults. In keeping with our goal to help children reach their full potential through their social, emotional and academic growth, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Washtenaw County incorporates these building blocks into the training and supports that we provide Bigs, Littles and their families. 


Big Brothers Big Sisters of Washtenaw County is proud to be a part of friendships like Jeovana and Laquita's. We love being able toStart Something that makes such a positive difference in the lives of the children in our community.