He got me to think about myself and who I want to be.

Chris and Steve’s Story

Chris first heard about Be the One in middle school. Feeling somewhat lonely at the time, he thought it would be nice to have a mentor to talk to and share some common interests. In Steve, he found that and so much more. Over the past three years, they have played games, had conversations on hundreds of topics, and learned new things from each other. Over Zoom meetings this past year, Chris enjoyed teaching Steve about his favorite video games, and was impressed that Steve actually wanted to learn from him. Chris definitely looks up to Steve. “He’s inspiring. I hope I can be like him—versed in as many topics as he is, and to do as many different things in life as he has done. I want to always be active like he is when I reach that age.

He doesn’t slow down.” According to Chris, Steve has really helped him develop as a person during their times together. “I’m more open to people now and to trying new things. He got me to think about myself and who I want to be. I feel better, more confident, more inspired to do things.” He can trust Steve to talk about anything and knows he will understand. He definitely wants to keep meeting with him through the rest of high school and beyond.