Lara had been in and out of foster care for the better part of eight years. She had been rejected by her parents, and was unable to create meaningful relationships with her peers.

In the middle of the instability and uncertainty, the constant presence in her young life was her Big Sister Penelope, an IT professional. Among the adults with whom Lara had been involved, Penelope was the only person who was not paid to spend time with her.

Today, Lara is studying at uni. Encouraged by her Big Sister's unwavering commitment, she is now pursuing a computer degree and hopes to become a successful programmer in the future.

Names have been changed to protect identities.