At 13 years old, Noah’s life was completely upended in an instant when his mother, the only parent he had, unexpectedly passed away. He had to move from his home on the east coast to Portland to live with his aunt, Nicole. Noah was grieving and adapting to a new school, new home, and entirely new circumstances in an unfamiliar city thousands of miles from the life he knew. That’s when Nicole reached out to Big Brothers Big Sisters Columbia Northwest. 

Noah was matched with a Big Sister named Jill. The pair has bonded over their Asian American identities and have enjoyed exploring all the great food Portland has to offer. 

Jill has not only had a positive impact on Noah, but on his aunt as well. When Noah moved in, Nicole became a single parent overnight. She said she’s so appreciative to have Jill as an extra support for their family.    

Noah, now 16, has been struggling with the pressures of being a junior in high school, having a part time job, and competing on the wrestling team. Jill continues to be there for him. 

“When Noah’s having a bad day, Jill is the only person he wants to talk to,” Nicole said. 

Noah has big dreams. Soon, he hopes to return to the east coast— this time to attend an Ivy League college. Jill has been happy to work with Noah on his academics, SAT prep, and college essays. 

Noah had incredible potential this whole time — he just needed a mentor like Jill to help him ignite it.

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