Real Stories - Heather and Maria

Heather encouraged Maria to pursue her dreams.

For the past five years, Heather has provided friendship and stability to her Little Sister, Maria, who was 11 when they met. Heather’s “try it and see” encouragement has given Maria confidence and shown her she has the ability to achieve her dreams.

When Maria decided to apply to a performing arts high school, Heather was there every step of the way. “She was totally capable of doing it,” Heather said, “but just needed to have someone help her.”

At Maria’s audition, Heather stood in the hall with the other applicants, listening to Maria sing her audition piece, the National Anthem. “I started crying. I was so proud of her.”

A month later Maria told Heather that she had been accepted to the school.

“She’s there no matter what the situation,” said Maria. “She’s like a sister.”

• Matched since: July 2003
• Things they do together: Go out to eat, take classes together, hang out and "talk endlessly," sing in the car and try new things (like sushi)