Congratulations to our recent Big Futures graduate, Oley, who will be attending The Ohio State University this fall to study medicine! A creative and talented young woman who is brimming with potential, Oley enjoys music, art, Taekwondo, and spending time with her family, friends, and Big Sister, Tracy.
Oley is the oldest child in the single parent family, and she has two younger brothers. Her family was first referred to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio (BBBSCO) through our agency’s partnership with Move to Prosper (MTP), a program that makes affordable rental housing available in neighborhoods that offer families access to a network of opportunities and resources.
The transition that happens during any big move can be challenging for both parents and kids. However, the acceptance and support from a dedicated adult mentor makes it so much easier to navigate the waves of change. Big Sister Tracy continues to be a mentor, friend, and trusted resource for Little Sister Oley since they were matched in 2019.
Over the years, Tracy and Oley have shared many fun and engaging activities together. They have enjoyed exploring new foods and places to eat, doing crafts, going to sporting events, and spending time together talking about things going on in their lives and in the world. Tracy also exposed Oley to the college experience, taking her on school visits and championing her throughout the application process.
Since her involvement with MTP and BBBSCO, Oley has shown heightened growth in all areas of her development. She has not only developed greater self-confidence, but she is using that self-confidence to explore and embrace leadership roles.
Oley is very thankful for everything that Tracy has done to empower her to reach her goals. She encourages other kids to get involved in BBBSCO because it is a fun and inspiring way to help young people secure their fullest potential. Likewise, Tracy is so happy that she became a Big Sister, and she feels fortunate to be Oley’s Big Sister and to have the opportunity to learn from her as well. She encourages other adults to become Bigs as it is an experience that they will treasure forever.
Tracy and Oley agree that they have accomplished so much during their time together and have made memories that they will cherish forever. Although Oley has graduated from our mentoring program, their goal is to stay connected to one another as they continue to grow together.
