Junior/Senior Friends

Samantha's Story

Samantha’s father passed away just one year before her mother referred her to the Junior Senior Friends Program. Although Samantha’s parents had divorced, she was still very close to her dad and his extended family. Upon his passing his family severed all ties to Samantha and refused to be in contact with her. For a nine year old this was a difficult reality to face and coupled with the grief she had for her dad she now had the loss of a number of people she loved. Samantha’s mother hoped that having a Senior Friend would connect her to a caring adult outside of her mom and step father that could encourage Samantha to enjoy her childhood, laugh, trust, and spend time engaged in fun activities.

Meanwhile, across town there was Tammy; a married woman in her forties who had spent many years pondering becoming a mentor. Tammy had raised her son and now he was off on his own and she felt emptiness in her life. She recalled what a positive experience she had as a child when she was set up with a “big sister” and decided she would take the step herself.

When Tammy and Samantha first met neither ceased to smile and Samantha quickly chimed in to say, “I want you to call me Sammy. That way we’ll be Tammy and Sammy. Okay?” Tammy was quick to agree and so they began what was to become a wonderful friendship.