"20 years. I have been a big sister for 20 years. I never would have guess when I met my little sister, Joline that she would be such a big part of my life 20 years later. But the bond that we created is one that has enriched my life and given me an opportunity to love someone else like no one else. She has given back to me more love and joy that I sometimes think I was the underprivileged person in the equation.

We met when I was in my second year of university (21 years old) and Joline (9 years old) had just moved back to Edmonton with her mom and two siblings. I was in a long distance relationship and didn’t have any family in Edmonton. I knew I would be busy with university but needed to be able to love someone in a joyful, fun way. I had heard of the Big Sisters organization and wanted to try it as I had heard you only had to commit to one year. (little did I know, Joline would settle into a cozy place in my heart and one year would not be enough). I dutifully filled out the application form and had the “interview” and was told about Joline and her family. She was very shy- but who wouldn’t be – I was the lady taking her out and she had to trust her mom and me when we said it would fun. I don’t remember what activity we did – but I bet Joline does- she has a great memory- and we started to see each other every Saturday.

The Big Sister’s provided coupons for cheap movies at the Princess theatre and $5.00 swims at the West Edmonton Mall and we took advantage of them. We also made cookies, just went out for lunch, and hung out. Time went by and I moved to Montreal and Joline’s family moved around too. Joline and I lost touch at times, but by luck or divine intervention we would find each other again and reconnect. When I came back to Edmonton and got married she was apart of our ceremony-just like family. I had my first child in 1995, months before Joline had her first as well. We each had our second child about 9 months apart. She’s a great mom and her family has helped out along the way. Now her two girls are at the top of their classes and are settled with Joline and her famliy. Joline has worked very hard to finish, attend university studies and receive a Teacher’s Assistant Diploma. This has enabled her to work at a nearby high school.

 
We still talk and get together throughout the year and our kids (and spouses) get along famously. When we both realized that we had known each other now for 20 years, I promised her I would write to Big Sisters and tell them our story.

So that’s our story and we hope you share it with other Big and Little Sisters. "