Shannon and Latrice Share Unique Bond

 Shannon and Latrice have been matched in the Friends First program since December 2006. For nearly two years, their friendship has blossomed through their consistent participation in community outings and events, and because they have spent time building a relationship and learning to support one another. Shannon recalls the first few outings, when Latrice was a quiet teenager who demonstrated an eagerness to begin questioning life's lessons. Their relationship continued to grow as they discovered their common interest in dancing and music. According to Latrice, one of their best outings was the day Shannon went to see Latrice sing in her school choir. Latrice loves music and the fact that Shannon made it to her performance meant the world to her.

Shannon and Latrice have participated in a number of Friends First events including the bowling party, a Bears game, and the Friends First holiday party. They even survived a challenging and amusing weekend with other matches during the Friends First camping trip at Camp Henry Horner! The camping trip gave them a chance to participate in rock climbing and a number of other team building projects.  They fully participated in each event and didn't stop smiling throughout the entire weekend.

Latrice and Shannon are known for their teamwork, mutual bond, jokes, contagious laughter and a shared love of trying different foods. One of their favorite restaurants serves Ethiopian food and they both agree that this is a spot that they value as much for the food as for the chance to enjoy "girl talk".  When Latrice has questions or concerns about boys, school exams, family or jobs, Shannon is always there to offer support and guidance. In Latrice's words, "Shannon is the greatest person in my life and I appreciate having her as my mentor."  When asked about the impact that Shannon has had on her daughter, Latrice's mother said, "Shannon has been able to teach my daughter to love herself before she can love others."  This important lesson is reinforced with Latrice each time that they are together, especially when Shannon shares with Latrice that she is "fabulous, sweet, the best mentee, so ready to learn and makes the match so rewarding."

Since being matched with Shannon, Latrice has developed an important appreciation of life. Latrice is active in school, is a member of her school volleyball team, and is giving back to the community through her own volunteer activities at a local soup kitchen.