Match Story: Garrett & Ahsaan

We are celebrating another great year here at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa! This year we made new matches,  supported on-going matches and enjoyed watching these friendships grow. Check out Garrett & Ahsaan’s story- it is sure to warm your heart. They have been matched for more than three years!

Garrett Christeson and his Little, Ahsaan, were first matched in July of 2010, and their time together has been full of fun, excitement and growth for both Garrett and Ahsaan. Garrett has watched Ahsaan grow from a shy, timid and difficult student into a smart, outgoing and courteous young man. “He has improved his grades each year,” says Garrett, “and he seems to be enjoying school more than he was 3 years ago.”

The highlight of Garrett and Ahsaan’s match came this fall when they attended the Iowa vs. Michigan State game on October 5^th. They toured the press box and met ESPN announcers as well as Hawkeye great Ed Podolak and Voice of the Hawkeyes, Gary Dolphin.

The best part? Garrett and Ahsaan even got to stand on the sidelines during the pregame warm-up and be next to the players. As part of BBBSCI’s Kick-Off Kids program, sponsored by Allied Insurance, Garrett and Ahsaan were even filmed on the sidelines and announced on the big screen at the beginning of the game.  “It was a once in a lifetime opportunity and an amazing experience that neither of us will ever forget,” says Christeson.

Garrett and Ahsaan often enjoy outdoor activities together. They like to go to the park, play catch, watch the iCubs and they have even tried ice skating. Garrett encourages anyone who is interested in becoming a Big to do so immediately. “Every moment is an opportunity to make a difference in a child’s life,” says Garrett. “My favorite part is having an excuse to act like a kid again and being able to see the world through the eyes of a child, just as it should be.”

Garrett & Ahsaan at the Iowa vs Michigan State football game!