After spending six years on the Big Brothers Big Sisters waitlist, Charlie was matched with a mentor who would quickly become an important person in her life. What began as a connection at a library program has grown into a friendship filled with creativity, new experiences, and trust.
Charlie first met Kaeleigh at the Woodstock Public Library, where Kaeleigh works as a children and teen librarian. As a young person from an Indigenous background, Charlie was drawn to Two Row Learning, a program that explores Indigenous knowledge and teachings, presented by Two Row Creeations. Charlie regularly attended the program where she began looking forward to time spent with Kaeleigh.
When Charlie’s mom, Tiffany, mentioned that her daughter had been waiting for a mentor, Kaeleigh decided to apply. After completing the volunteer screening and training process, the two were officially matched in the spring of 2026.
Together, they dive into ambitious projects. They are currently hand-making Charlie’s Halloween costume, complete with a dress and wig inspired by a favorite character. They have also been developing a YouTube series called The Stewart Show, featuring characters they created themselves. Their plans include learning stop-motion animation, experimenting with 3D printing, and even tackling woodworking projects in the future.
“She’s always coming up with ideas that challenge me to learn new things too,” Kaeleigh says with a laugh.
For Charlie, the relationship has become something she eagerly looks forward to every week.
“It’s really nice to just have a break from everything,” she says. “The weeks go by a lot faster because I’m looking forward to seeing Kaeleigh.”
That extra support means a lot for Charlie, who spends nearly two hours each day traveling to and from a specialized gifted program in London. Having someone outside of school and family to talk to, create with, and simply spend time alongside has added a new source of joy and consistency in her life.
Some of Charlie’s favorite memories include exploring bookstores together, discovering new books, and trying foods she had never tasted before. Kaeleigh introduced her to sushi, which quickly became Charlie’s favorite food, as well as smoothies, pomegranate, and other new treats. The pair also enjoy attending community events together, including Big Brothers Big Sisters activities and local pride celebrations.
While Charlie has gained a trusted mentor and friend, Tiffany says the impact on her family has been just as meaningful.
“There are not very many people that we have where I can just not worry,” she explains. “Having Kaeleigh show up and take her, and knowing she’s safe, is incredible.”
For Tiffany, the relationship offers something every parent hopes for: another caring adult who genuinely supports and values their child.
“It’s really cool for her to have another safe person,” she says.
What began as a chance connection at the library has grown into a friendship built on trust, encouragement, and shared interests. Whether they’re sewing costumes, exploring bookstores, experimenting with animation, or dreaming up their next creative project, Kaeleigh and Charlie are learning and growing together. While Charlie has gained a trusted mentor and friend, Kaeleigh has discovered new interests, embraced new challenges, and found joy in seeing the world through Charlie’s curious and creative perspective.