We are proud to recognize Rachel as our newest MAX Mentor of the Month. Her journey with Ace is a beautiful example of how meaningful connections often grow one conversation, one shared moment, and one brave step at a time.
Rachel and Ace were matched two years ago. In the beginning, they were both a little shy as they learned about each other. Their outings were gentle and quiet, and they appreciated having the BBBS team close by while they settled in. What mattered most was that they both wanted the same thing. They hoped to build a friendship where Ace could explore new experiences, feel supported, and grow socially. That shared hope became the thread that pulled them forward.
As the months passed, their comfort deepened. Ace began looking forward to their time together, and they described Rachel with genuine warmth: “She is patient. She is very caring and always consistent.” They told us that being with Rachel feels easy. “I can be myself now. We can do simple things and I don’t worry about what others think.” Their bond grew even stronger through creative activities, where Ace loved Rachel’s imagination and her way of bringing ideas to life.
They have also shared lots of new adventures, including the day Ace first tried ice-skating. Ace still remembers laughing with Rachel as they wobbled across the ice, discovering something new. It is the same spirit they bring to their art sessions, where Ace loves that “Rachel is not afraid to get messy.”
Their connection has blossomed far beyond outings. Ace’s mom, Patricia, has seen her child grow into someone more confident, expressive, and socially engaged. “Ace always looks forward to their time together. They are more comfortable and outgoing now,” she shared. In the last two years, Ace has joined new clubs at school, formed new friendships, talked about getting a summer job, and even started imagining what post-secondary education might look like. These are big dreams taking shape one step at a time.
Rachel has noticed this shift too. “Ace is very intentional about setting goals now. They are open to new things and willing to step out of their comfort zone. It has been wonderful to see.”
Ace has also begun stepping into leadership roles, including helping at our summer camp. They often ask Rachel for advice about friendships, and those once-quiet car rides are now filled with stories, laughter, and excitement about what is happening in their world.
For Rachel, mentoring has brought just as much growth to her own life. She has gained new perspectives, strengthened her confidence, and discovered a deeper appreciation for shared experiences. “You realize that you grow just as much as your Little,” she reflected. “You build a unique kind of emotional maturity and learn so much from each other.”
And she offers this encouragement to new mentors: Do not get discouraged. If you are willing to move through the early moments that feel a little uncertain, you might discover a relationship that becomes one of the most meaningful parts of your life.
Rachel and Ace’s story shows that mentoring is not about perfection or instant connection. It is about trust, patience, creativity, and the willingness to grow side by side. Their quiet beginning has turned into a friendship filled with joy, discovery, and the confidence to step boldly into the future.
If you have ever wondered whether you could make a difference, their story is a reminder that you can. Becoming a mentor can change two lives in ways that stay with you forever.
