Patti and Chloe’s big sister bond helps them both thrive
By Robin Layton for Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters
When Patti Indelicato first met six-year-old Chloe at Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters in Prescott, neither of them could have imagined the bond they’d grow over the next eight years. Now 14, Chloe is a thriving, ambitious teen with dreams of joining the military and a passion for music. And by her side through it all has been Patti—her Big Sister, mentor, and trusted friend.
Originally from New York, Patti and her husband retired to Prescott seeking new adventures in a close-knit community. A mother of four and a former Girl Scout leader, Patti always had a heart for working with children. Volunteering as a mentor with Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters felt like a natural fit. “I’ve always wanted to help kids do well,” Patti shared. “Mentorship, to me, means using my life experience to help break things down and give children the tools to succeed.”
Their match began at school and then progressed with simple public library visits, sharing books and laughs, gradually growing into a consistent after-school routine: snacks, homework help, walks, hikes, and sometimes a few rounds of pinball—one of Chloe’s favorites.
As the years passed, their relationship deepened. “We think of ourselves as part of each other’s family. Her mother and I get along well,” Patti said. “I’m another safe adult for Chloe, someone she can talk to and rely on.”
It’s clear that trust and connection have made a difference in their match. Chloe is thriving in school, particularly in English, where Patti helps her with test strategies and reading comprehension. She’s an accomplished musician, playing clarinet in the school’s jazz band and dazzling everyone on piano—often composing her own pieces entirely by ear. For her birthday, Patti gifted her music-reading lessons, encouraging her natural talent.
Outside of academics and music, Chloe is setting her sights on military service. With grandparents who served in the military, she’s inspired to follow their path and is interested in Prescott High School’s NROTC program. “She’s a well-grounded girl,” Patti said with pride. “She has such a strong sense of who she is.”
The match has grown beyond one-on-one time. Chloe is now part of a tutoring group at the Prescott Library, learning alongside honors club mentors and making meaningful connections in the community. “She loves the library. She feels safe there. She knows everyone—it’s her space.”
For Patti, being a Big Sister is more than a volunteer role; it’s a purpose. “I’m just happy to be there for her,” she said simply. “I feel all children need some guidance in their lives. I wish I could it for all of them, but we start with one!”
As Chloe continues to chase her dreams, there’s no doubt Patti will be cheering her on—every step of the way.
About YBBBS
For information on Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters’ youth mentoring mission, visit azbigs.org or call the Prescott office at 928.778.5135.
The Arizona Charitable Tax Credit is another way for you to help ensure we can continue our vitally important mission, with no additional cost to you. The new amounts you can give and get back as a dollar-for-dollar credit on your state tax are now $470 filing single and $938 filing as a couple.