Big Spotlight: Leanne Rack
Check out our Big Spotlight featuring Ellis Co. Big, Leanne Rack! She has been matched with Stella since August 2019. Leanne is the Bigs on Campus president at Fort Hays State and is so passionate about our program. She curates really thoughtful activities for her match and helps other matches do the same. Stella’s mom called her “their golden girl” because she is so attentive, genuine, and thoughtful.
What do you love most about being a Big?
I have loved getting to develop a forever friendship with Stella! Her and I always have a blast when we are together and we both help each other to grow as individuals. I also love that there is never a dull moment with Stella. She always knows how to make my day brighter!
What is your favorite match activity you have done together?
We enjoy doing anything crafty! I love being able to see Stella’s creative side come to life and explore all the different creations we can make together.
What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in your Little since being matched?
I have seen Stella’s confidence grow tremendously throughout our match! It has been such a neat experience and I can’t wait to see everything she accomplishes in the future.
What is one piece of advice you’d give to a new Big or someone considering becoming a Big?
It is SO worth it! Just being there for your Little as someone to talk to or hangout with makes such a big impact on them and will allow them to grow in their everyday life.
What would you say are the keys to success for being a Big?
Being present for your Little and forming an authentic friendship with them would be one of my keys to success. As a Big, you hope that your Little can come to you as a mentor, so it is important to give them the opportunity to do that and foster an environment of trust. I would also encourage Bigs to just be themselves around their Littles! You don’t always have to do fancy, out of this world activities with your Little. Some of the most memorable times between Stella and I have been during simple outings or just hanging out together and chatting! What is one thing you hope your Little learns from you? I hope that I can show my Little how to be confident in herself with all that she does, but also remember that it is okay not to be perfect.
Become a Big like Leanne: kansasbigs.org/be-a-big