A Special Match
by Sophie Katzman
Though it has been some 6+ years since the first meeting with my Little, I can still feel the excitement of our very first outing. I remember it took a few months to find me a match. At the time, I hadn’t been sure why the match process was so lengthy, but I was pleasantly surprised when upon meeting Lauren, I realized how carefully JBBBS pairs two people – we were very alike! This made our outings seamless, as we shared a love for crafting, baking, beauty pampering, yummy treats and exploring the cities around us.
Before I joined JBBBS, I hadn’t quite found a community outreach program that was as fulfilling and enjoyable. Each time I met with Lauren over our 3 years as a match, I was always excited to see her and plan our next outing. From painting pottery to ice skating, baking cookies and even making slime, I always felt a sense of the carefreeness of childhood coming back to me. It changed my perspective on many things and made me a better person.
Yet, the experience wasn’t so much about me as it is about Lauren. Our relationship gave her time to be the center of attention, ‘choose her own adventure,’ have fun and discover her own interests. We formed a strong bond and friendship.
Our formal ‘sisterhood’ lasted 3 years, before I unfortunately moved out of state. Yet the impact has been lasting even beyond those years. Though we are no longer able to see each other often and I miss our time together, I still keep in touch with Lauren and her family to this day. Lauren recently became a Bat Mitzvah. While I wasn’t able to attend, I felt touched that her family invited me. This shows the connection we made in a few years and the lasting impact it has had on both of us, even beyond monthly meetups. This program has such a special place in my heart; I am grateful for my experience and my relationship with my little sister.
Sophie Katzman is a New York City based education professional and Marblehead Native. She was a Big Sister through JBBS from 2016-2019. Sophie has a bachelor’s in Creative Writing and Sociology from Trinity College and a Master’s in Education from Boston University. In her spare time, she likes to travel, bake, explore the wonders of NYC and spend time with family & friends!