We are honored to recognize Monique and John as our MAX Mentors of the Month. As a Big Couple, they show the incredible impact two mentors can have when they step in together with care, intention, and heart.
Matched two years ago, Monique and John have approached their time with Avery with thoughtfulness and a sense of fun. Some of their favorite memories include teaching Avery to fish at Bouctouche Bay, enjoying summer swims, exploring food festivals, attending agency events, and discovering new interests through the agency’s lending library. Every experience has brought them closer together and pushed all of them outside of their comfort zones, creating moments of growth, laughter, and connection.
When Monique and John first stepped into the program, they were embarking on something new together—but excited for the journey ahead. They had clear hopes for their relationship with Avery, and over time, many of those goals have been achieved. Even more meaningful, however, has been watching the positive changes in his life. “Over the years, we’ve learned to allow him to grow at his own pace,” they share, and they’ve loved watching him “become more confident—something we don’t take for granted.” One of the most rewarding signs of Avery’s growth has been how confidently he shares his thoughts and ideas, suggesting activities, giving feedback, and using his voice to shape their time together. Watching him step into this independence has been especially meaningful for Monique and John.
From Avery’s mom’s perspective, their impact goes even further. “They were able to open up doors and opportunities that I myself would not be able to,” she says. “To some, it may only be the gain of a Big Couple, but for Avery and our family, we gained friends who are now forever part of our family.”
Mentoring has brought Monique and John deep joy and a sense of purpose. “The chance to speak into a young man’s life, knowing that we are influencing the man he will become and the choices he will make, isn’t something we would ever change,” they share. It has also given them the opportunity to see the world through the eyes of a young person, which has been rewarding in itself.
Monique and John have seen firsthand how mentorship creates lasting value and they encourage others to step forward: “We would encourage anyone seeking to be involved to know that they can make a positive impact with lasting value.” Their story is a powerful reminder that every Big Couple brings something uniquely their own and it is these authentic, heartfelt connections that create meaningful, lasting change.
If you have ever wondered whether you could make a difference, their story is a reminder that you can. Becoming a mentor can change lives in ways that stay with you forever.
