Jadon and Mike have been matched in our Community Mentoring program for seven years, since Jadon was just eight years old. The years since have been filled with growth, both in Jadon’s height and in the match’s relationship. From the beginning, the two created a firm foundation of friendship based on their love of basketball and having fun.
When Mike had to move farther from Jadon’s neighborhood because of his work, he didn’t let that additional distance keep him from showing up and being a consistent presence in Jadon’s life. Mike works to integrate learning and fun into each of their interactions. When Jadon was getting ready to take his driver’s permit test, Mike took him go-karting to test out what it feels like being behind a wheel. Basketball has always been a priority for Jadon, so he and Mike practice regularly and Mike made sure he was there to cheer on Jadon for his first high school game. Academics have also been a priority for the pair. The two regularly spend time together working on homework and towards goals like achieving a higher GPA and taking on honors courses. The pair also try to tackle new challenges together. Mike recently took Jadon rock climbing, while Jadon wasn’t so sure at first, he left the gym motivated and ready to climb again.
Jadon and Mike have found friendship in the small, less flashy moments. Over the years, they’ve really enjoyed biking together and doing simple things like washing Mike’s car and learning how to gauge tire pressure. Mike and Jadon have an easy rhythm and they both excel at taking on life’s challenges with confidence and ease. Together they tackle the small stuff and the big stuff, they set goals and they dream big.