Big Sister Laurie Stone and Big Brother Mike Lewis honored

In celebration of National Mentoring Month, Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee has named its Mentors of the Year.

Big Brother Mike Lewis and Big Sister Laurie Stone were honored for their impact at a private event in December.

Laurie and Maria
Laurie Stone and Maria were matched in October of 2012. The two consider each other family, and regularly go out to eat and to movies together.

Laurie supports Maria’s extracurricular activities, and regularly provides Maria a ride from volleyball and cheer practice.

The impact of a mentor in Maria’s life is evident: Maria’s grades have improved and she recently received several awards at school. She is more confident in herself, and she is even planning her future after high school.

“Maria is an amazing young lady,” said Stone. “The last three years of her life have been a huge area of academic growth and relationship successes, and she has become involved in track, volleyball, lacrosse, and as cheer team captain on her school squad. She is the leader I knew she’d be, and she is making good choices.”

Mike and Aaron

Mike Lewis and his Little Brother Aaron met in January 2015. The pair enjoys spending time at sporting events and going out to eat.

When Aaron moved to a new home last year, Mike helped his family move in and even performed repairs.

The two place a strong emphasis on school performance, decision-making, respect for others, honesty, accountability, and potential—and the results are evident.

“It has been my pleasure to be able to spend time with Aaron,” Mike said. “He is a big-hearted young man with great potential. My hope is that he continues to see new possibilities unfold before him to experience the brightest of futures.  My life is richer thanks to knowing Aaron.”

“Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee mentors are truly igniting potential in hundreds of area youth,” said BBBS-ETN VP of Programs Kara Finger. “Laurie and Mike are phenomenal mentors who provide a life-changing impact on their Littles, ensuring that Aaron and Maria achieve their biggest possible futures.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee names its Bigs of the Year at a private event each December and announces honorees each January in honor of National Mentoring Month.