NewsChannel 15's Alyssa Ivanson honored as Big Sister of the Year

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - NewsChannel 15's Alyssa Ivanson was honored Thursday afternoon as Indiana's Big Sister of the Year by the state of Indiana’s Big Brothers Big Sisters organization.

Alyssa has been with her little, Jordain King, for six years now helping her through Asperger's Syndrome.

When Jordain was just five years old, specialists said that regular schooling would be too difficult for her. However, Jordain conquered this challenge and will graduate from Wayne High School this year.

One of the activities Alyssa and Jordain first enjoyed together was scrapbooking. The two also go horseback riding and attend movies and plays.

Alyssa has helped Jordain succeed at tasks that were previously very difficult for her, such as making eye contact, ordering at a restaurant, having a conversation and even saying hello to people. 

“I always felt safe with her. She’s been extremely supportive when it comes to me, and she also gives me an honest opinion on whatever I ask. I feel like my life would’ve been completely different if I didn’t have Alyssa as a part of it. She’s a great friend and an even better Big Sister," Jordain said.

Alyssa will be honored at a celebration for all nominees in late July in Indianapolis.

"Being a Big is rewarding in ways I didn’t expect, and I’ve learned more about myself than I ever could have imagined,” Alyssa said.

Alyssa will now compete against 49 other Big Sisters from across the country for the National Big Sister of the Year honor. The national winner will be announced in June in Denver, Colorado.

For more information on Big Brothers Big Sisters, or to find out how you can help, click here .