Proudly sponsored by Nelson Auto Glass Specialists
When Julie Marriott was matched with her current Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) buddy, Jay was seven years old. Nearly six years later, Julie is still there. It is that consistency that BBBS Nelson-Tasman Practice Lead Lyndsey Wylie says makes Julie such a special mentor.
“Julie is calm and patient and willing to give anything a go,” Lyndsey says. “Throughout their time Julie has remained steadfast in her role and showed care and encouragement. They have a truly special bond and have grown so much together. Her young person tells us all the time that she loves her time with Julie and wants to be friends with her forever.”
Julie is one of those people who gives back to the community regularly and with no expectations, Lyndsey explains. “She genuinely cares about making a positive impact on the people around her. We think she is phenomenal and she is someone who deserves a little bit of love and recognition for all she does!”
Julie has been a BBBS volunteer for more than eight years, having first become involved in 2018. For her, some of the best moments have been the ordinary ones. “Sometimes it's just the conversations in the car, playing a game, having a hot chocolate, or making up a goofy game or dance, that can be the most meaningful,” Julie says.
Over the years, the pair have shared plenty of adventures, with BBBS and its connections in the community opening up opportunities along the way. But Julie says watching her buddy grow in confidence has been one of the biggest highlights. “It's been so rewarding building a friendship with a young person, sharing fun activities out and about, seeing them grow in themselves, and also teach me things about myself too!”
And Julie’s advice to anyone considering becoming a mentor is simple: “I would highly recommend it to anyone! We've had some amazing opportunities, and the Nelson BBBS team are just so supportive.”
