Maria and Dannelys
The pandemic has been hard for everyone, but for Dannelys, this also meant some instability in her family and support systems. “The reason I joined Friends For Youth was because I needed to talk to someone. Someone I could tell how I felt about things. Friends For Youth paired me up with an awesome person. Made me feel a lot more open and great about myself. I also hope to help someone else the same way she helped me,” Dannelys says.
“She is a big role model to me and showed me that your dreams can become a reality.””
Friends for Youth had prepared many virtual activities to get the friendship started, which was a lot of fun. They did coding activities together, Maria taught Dannelys to play chess, and they did lots and lots of virtual yoga. But in the end Dannelys’ favorite activity was just talking. “I learned a lot from her, like to play games and make things. But also things to always keep in mind in my daily life. She is a big role model to me and showed me that your dreams can become a reality,” says Dannelys.
A major highlight for them both was the first time they met in person, going for a hike to the top of a hill overlooking San Mateo. After nearly a year of virtual meetings, it was great to see each other in person.
Dannelys is finally getting the vaccine, which means the pair can finally do indoor activities together soon!
Looking back on the first year, Dannelys says, “We have had a great time together, made so many memories, and we will keep on making so much more.”
