Match Spotlight: Malik and Morgan

Malik and Morgan met in the beginning of the 2010-11 school year. It seemed to be a challenging match at first; Malik did not respect Morgan or himself. He would skip completing his homework and go to baseball practice instead. He also got into a fight with another boy at his afterschool club and had to be suspended. There was no question that Malik was going to be a challenge to work with. His Big Sister Morgan continued to be patient with him; finding positive qualities in him and offering words of encouragement. Instead of trying to change everything about Malik, Morgan focused on building a trusting relationship. It didn’t take long before Morgan and Malik were good friends; laughing and joking whenever they were together. Within a couple months, Malik’s grades started improving as well as his behavior. As Morgan and Malik filled their “My Good Character Book” each week, Malik started to realize how good of a student he could be and how far he had come. Malik was demonstrating respect for Morgan, but it didn’t stop there. He started showing respect for his fellow classmates and most importantly in how he carried himself. Malik is now being responsible in completing his daily homework assignments and participating in class, showing excellent Citizenship. In fact, Malik was recently awarded “Citizen of the Month” at his school! This was a huge accomplishment for Malik and also for his Big Sister Morgan, reassuring her that she was making a difference. If the Big Brothers Big Sisters Mentoring Program had not been there for Malik and his Big Sister had not encouraged him to practice the 6 Pillars of Character Counts!, Malik may not be the successful, outstanding child he is today!