Big Nick and Little Skyler (11) were matched in October 2021. This is their story…
A couple of years ago, Skyler’s mom, Natasha, decided he could use extra support. Skyler’s dad wasn’t involved in his life and Natasha knew Skyler would benefit from having a consistent and caring role model.
Around this time, Nick, a Western University student studying Mechatronics Engineering, was looking for ways to become more involved in the community. He grew up with sisters so having a little “brother” was appealing to him.
From their first visit, Nick and Skyler hit it off. Skyler is interested in computer coding and building things – he could barely contain his excitement when he learned that Nick was studying these things in school. And Nick could hardly believe Skylar’s ability to discuss such complex topics for such a little guy!
Natasha says that Skyler absolutely adores his weekly visits with Nick; he comes home with a huge smile on his face after each one. Nick and Skyler’s favourite match activities include going tobogganing, playing mini-sticks, and watching hockey (they even went to a London Knight’s game).
The benefits of this match go beyond the friendship the pair has formed. Nick says that over the course of their visits together, he’s noticed Skyler become more open and confident. Natasha has confirmed these positive changes and then some. She says Skyler seems happier and has better emotional control. His outlook on the future has also improved and he’s slowly beginning to put more effort into his school work.\
As for Nick, he says he’s valued the carefree time away from his studies and that because he wants to be the best possible role model for Skylar, he feels he’s becoming a better person.
If there’s one thing Nick and Skyler’s match demonstrates, it’s how much happiness a match can bring both the mentor and mentee.