Signal Tribune Newspaper

Big Sister of the Year Lori Heller with her Little Sister Valerie, 14

Signal Hill resident Lori Heller has been named The Angelitos de Oro Big Sister of the Year. She has been matched with Little Sister Valerie, age 14, for five years.
Lori works as a flight attendant for American Airlines and an event coordinator for There4U Incentives.
“I’ve always loved working with children. I wanted to become involved in an organization which would allow me to have a one-on-one relationship with a child,” she commented.
The pair meet regularly, and enjoy shopping, going to plays and musicals, bowling, the park, the beach, and amusement parks.
“Valerie is a bright, mature teenager. Being in a relationship with her has given me a new perspective on the interaction between adult and child. It is sometimes complicated, but always wonderful,” said Heller. “Since I wasn’t blessed with children of my own, this has given me a better understanding of the joys and challenges of influencing a young person’s life.”
Valerie’s grandmother Vera thinks Lori is the ideal choice for Big Sister of the Year. She has seen positive changes in Valerie since she was matched to Lori, watching her become more outgoing and improve her grades in school. Vera remarked, “Lori is part of our family. She has helped Val become a stronger, positive and caring young lady. She has helped Val believe in herself.”

More Information
www.bigbrooc.org
(714) 544-7773