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Four years ago, Little Sister Erykah was introduced to her new Big Sister, Jeanine Allsup. This introduction was the start of a close friendship. According to Tracey Spears, Erykah's mother, "Jeanine guides Erykah and assists her in identifying her own achievements. Jeanine's kindness, thoughtfulness, and willingness are a joy and inspiration. I am extremely proud and grateful to her for helping me build and shape my daughter's character."
Erykah was shy and very quiet when she first met Jeanine. Today, she is a bubbly, friendly child who is enjoying performing in drama productions and singing. Erykah attends Governor French Academy and is excelling in her school work.
Jeanine Allsup has been part of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois for more than 15 years. She is a former board member and former staff member who created a counseling program at the agency. After she resigned as a counselor, she decided it was time to become a Big Sister.
President and CEO, Barbara Cempura, said "We are proud that Jeanine was selected as the Illinois Big Sister of the Year. The 18 Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies in Illinois nominated candidates for "Big of the Year". Jeanine is most deserving of this recognition. Jeanine and Erykah both give a lot to their friendship and Erykah's mother, Tracey, supports their friendship."
Illinois Big Sister of the Year named...
Four years ago, Little Sister Erykah was introduced to her new Big Sister, Jeanine Allsup. This introduction was the start of a close friendship. According to Tracey Spears, Erykah's mother, "Jeanine guides Erykah and assists her in identifying her own achievements. Jeanine's kindness, thoughtfulness, and willingness are a joy and inspiration. I am extremely proud and grateful to her for helping me build and shape my daughter's character."
Erykah was shy and very quiet when she first met Jeanine. Today, she is a bubbly, friendly child who is enjoying performing in drama productions and singing. Erykah attends Governor French Academy and is excelling in her school work.
Jeanine Allsup has been part of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwestern Illinois for more than 15 years. She is a former board member and former staff member who created a counseling program at the agency. After she resigned as a counselor, she decided it was time to become a Big Sister.
President and CEO, Barbara Cempura, said "We are proud that Jeanine was selected as the Illinois Big Sister of the Year. The 18 Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies in Illinois nominated candidates for "Big of the Year". Jeanine is most deserving of this recognition. Jeanine and Erykah both give a lot to their friendship and Erykah's mother, Tracey, supports their friendship."
