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Collaboration features SRGN Academy youth clinics in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, along with design activation for My Cause My Cleats

NEW YORK, October 25, 2022 – The National Football League announced today a partnership with pioneering shoe customizer Dominic Ciambrone, aka ‘The Shoe Surgeon’. Recognized for his bespoke one-of-a-kind creations, Ciambrone is the founder and creative director of The Surgeon, a household name synonymous with luxury custom footwear. He has continuously transformed the high-end fashion customization and sports landscape by offering his made-to-order services for top football athletes such as Odell Beckham Jr and Jalen Ramsey. The collaboration, consisting of two key initiatives, will empower the local community and youth through fashion, football, and philanthropy.

The first initiative will be a monthly series of SRGN Academy clinics in partnership with Big Brother Big Sisters of America, a longstanding partner of the NFL and through its “Inspire Change” social justice initiative. Each SRGN Academy Workshop will teach fifteen Littles and their Bigs from local Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies about creativity and customization, as they transform a blank cleat canvas into works of art with NFL Clubs and players. These workshops will take place in Las Vegas, Miami, Los Angeles and New York.

“I’m excited to partner with the NFL and Big Brothers Big Sisters to be able to give back and empower the youth with these creative workshops,” said Ciambrone. “Without my mentor, I wouldn’t be where I am today, so it’s important to me that we provide an outlet for our children to create and be inspired.”

“At Big Brothers Big Sisters, we know when kids are provided exposure to diverse experiences and opportunities, it shows them what’s possible and can be game-changing to their trajectory in life,” said Artis Stevens, president and CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “Partnering with the NFL, Dominic, and the SRGN Academy is such a fun, unique experience to engage our youth and showcase the village of mentors who support and empower them.”

For the second part of the partnership, Ciambrone will creative direct a special My Cause My Cleats activation, where he will hand select eight local sneaker customizers and pair them with NFL players in their market. Designers will create one-of-one cleats for each player, creatively displaying the non-profit organization of their choosing. With social content reveals that debut the works of art, the custom cleats will be auctioned off with 100% of proceeds from NFL Auction going to the players’ designated charities via NFL Foundation.

“Philanthropy and community are integral to our organization, and we are incredibly excited to work with a pioneering, creative talent like Dominic to spotlight these pillars,” said Tim Ellis, NFL Chief Marketing Officer. “Our collaboration with The Shoe Surgeon and Big Brothers Big Sisters allows us give back to the local community, inspire future generations through fashion and the game of football.” 

My Cause My Cleats, the player-led campaign now in its seventh season, gives players the opportunity to bring causes to the forefront on gameday, as they choose causes that are important to them and highlight organizations on custom-designed cleats. Causes have included tackling social injustice, supporting youth, addressing mental health, raising awareness for disability research and empowering veterans.

ABOUT THE SHOE SURGEON

Dominic Ciambrone, Creative Director and Founder of the Shoe Surgeon is a pioneer in luxury footwear and customization. Widely recognized for his bespoke one-of-one creations for celebrities such as LeBron James, Justin Bieber, Drake, and more, Ciambrone is transforming the high-end fashion space by offering his made-to-order services to his elite network of clientele –reimagining the product he works on into a one-of-a-kind design. His passion for storytelling and attention to detail elevates every project, making each piece a true, personalized work of art.

From a young age, Dominic always had a desire to create. From backyard forts to Lego sets, he was overwhelmingly drawn to his ability to construct – a creative outlet that later evolved into a flourishing business. Today, The Shoe Surgeon continues to push creative boundaries by teaching the skill and process to aspiring artists and creators at his SRGN Academy, passing along his craft to the next generation.

ABOUT BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF AMERICA

Founded in 1904, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is the largest and most experienced youth mentoring organization in the United States. The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Big Brothers Big Sisters’ evidence-based approach is designed to create positive youth outcomes, including educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence, and improved relationships. Big Brothers Big Sisters has over 230 local agencies serving more than 5,000 communities across all 50 states. For more information, visit: www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.

Tampa, FL (October 10, 2022) – Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States, has announced Ginneh Baugh as its Chief Impact Officer. Baugh will oversee strategic direction, activity and expert guidance across programs and outcomes. She will spearhead the execution of a strong impact strategy that will successfully support and strengthen BBBSA’s mission to make a lasting impact on youth and communities through mentorship. 

As a strategist, innovator, and data storyteller, Baugh brings expertise in program planning and a personal passion to strengthen pathways of opportunity for communities of color across the country. In her previous role as the Vice President of Impact and Innovation at Purpose Built Communities, she led the organization’s efforts to become more impact focused and was responsible for helping the national network of neighborhood revitalization initiatives to know, show and grow their impact. Her diverse professional experience and commitment to community and philanthropy will be a significant asset in strengthening BBBSA’s capacity of leaders, cultivating strong institutional partnerships, strategically incorporating innovations, and telling meaningful progress stories rooted in data.  

“I am thrilled and humbled by the opportunity to be a part of one of the nation’s most impactful legacy organizations and to help continue its mission in promoting justice, equity, diversity and inclusion, increasing access to mentorship, and creating lasting impact in our community,” said Ginneh Baugh, Chief Impact Officer, BBBSA. “I look forward to working alongside changemakers and passionate individuals who are dedicated to providing access to mentorship for every young person.” 

With more than 20 years of experience working in the non-profit and philanthropic sectors, Baugh has spent more than a decade of her career building organizational impact and affinity for some of the top national nonprofit brands in the country. She also held a position at United Way of Greater Atlanta, where she was a driving force behind the development of the Child Well-being Index and helping the organization use data as a catalyst for strategic investments and increasing volunteer and donor engagement. She led internal efforts to activate volunteers and executive leaders around Child Well-Being and was a driving force in garnering more impact-focused donors. 

“I’m pleased to welcome Ginneh to the Big Brothers Big Sisters family as we move into our next chapter of growth and continue to impact lives across the country through more mentorship opportunities,” said Artis Stevens, president and CEO, BBBSA. “Her leadership and expertise bring a wealth of impact strategy, community engagement experience, and personal passion that will elevate our powerful mission.”  

Baugh has also trained and provided strategic guidance to thousands of health and human service nonprofits over the years on program planning, evaluation, and results-based accountability. She is a skilled storyteller and has partnered with several leaders to tell more data-driven stories that inspire and activate stakeholders. 

Baugh holds a master’s degree in Public Policy from The Johns Hopkins University, and a bachelor’s degree from The University of Georgia. She is based in Decatur, Georgia, along with her husband and four children.  

Legacy Organization Announces National Partnership with Lambda Theta Phi Fraternity in Honor of Hispanic Heritage Month  

Tampa, FL (October 3, 2022) – Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the country, has announced its partnership with Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. to expand access to mentorship nationwide through mentor recruitment, volunteering and providing more opportunities for Littles.  

Dedicated to creating a sense of belonging for those in their local communities, regardless of one’s ethnicity, background, or how they identify, this newfound alliance will elevate both organizations’ mutual commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion on a national level.   

“We are honored to partner with such an admirable organization and Lambda Theta Phi Fraternity’s thousands of members across the country who share our values of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO, BBBSA. “Providing access to mentorship for every young person, regardless of their background, is an integral part of Big Brothers Big Sisters’ mission. We are proud to align with Lambda Theta Phi Fraternity to further their mission and recognize the importance of representation this Hispanic Heritage Month.” 

Currently, there are more than 30,000 youth across the country waiting for mentors, called “Bigs,” with most being young boys of color. Studies show that children who have role models are more likely to do better in school, have better connections with family and friends and are less likely to be involved in delinquent behaviors. The partnership will focus on recruiting mentors, where Lambda Theta Phi members will serve as Big Brothers, join local boards, and help open doors to companies and other organizations for advocacy and financial investment to support Big Brothers Big Sisters both locally, and nationally. 

“This partnership will provide Lambda Theta Phi members with the opportunity to leverage our collective power to make a real, tangible impact on the next generation,” said Jeffrey Chavez, National President of Lambda Theta Phi. “We are excited to see our members across the country practice our ideals as they offer support, guidance, and a sense of belonging for those in need.” 

La tradicional organización anuncia su asociación nacional con la fraternidad Lambda Theta Phi en honor al Mes de la Herencia Hispana  

Tampa, FL (3 de octubre de 2022): Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), la principal organización de mentoría juvenil personalizada en el país, ha anunciado su asociación con la fraternidad Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. para ampliar el acceso a la mentoría en todo el país a través del reclutamiento de mentores, el voluntariado y la oferta de más oportunidades para Littles.  

Dedicada a crear un sentimiento de pertenencia para los miembros de sus comunidades locales, independientemente de su etnia, origen o forma de identificarse, esta nueva alianza reforzará el compromiso mutuo de ambas organizaciones de promover la diversidad y la inclusión a nivel nacional.   

“Nos sentimos honrados de asociarnos con una organización tan admirable y con los miles de miembros de la fraternidad Lambda Theta Phi en todo el país que comparten nuestros valores de justicia, equidad, diversidad e inclusión”, dijo Artis Stevens, presidente y director ejecutivo de BBBSA. “Proporcionar acceso a la mentoría para cada joven, independientemente de su origen, es una parte integral de la misión de Big Brothers Big Sisters. Estamos orgullosos de colaborar con la fraternidad Lambda Theta Phi para promover su misión y reconocer la importancia de la representación en este Mes de la Herencia Hispana”. 

Actualmente, hay más de 30,000 jóvenes en todo el país esperando mentores, llamados “Bigs”, (grandes) y la mayoría son niños de color. Los estudios demuestran que los niños que tienen modelos a seguir tienen más probabilidades de mejorar en la escuela, tienen mejores conexiones con familiares y amigos y menos probabilidades de estar involucrados en la delincuencia. Nuestra asociación se centrará en reclutar mentores, donde los miembros de Lambda Theta Phi se desempeñarán como Big Brothers (hermanos grandes), se unirán a las juntas locales y ayudarán a las empresas y a otras organizaciones a abrir las puertas para promover e invertir financieramente para apoyar a Big Brothers Big Sisters tanto a nivel local, como nacional. 

“Esta asociación proporcionará a los miembros de Lambda Theta Phi la oportunidad de aprovechar nuestro poder colectivo para causar un impacto real y tangible en la próxima generación”, comentó Jeffrey Chavez, presidente nacional de Lambda Theta Phi. “Nos entusiasma ver a nuestros miembros de todo el país poner en práctica nuestros ideales al ofrecer apoyo, orientación y un sentido de pertenencia a quienes lo necesitan”. 

TAMPA, FL (September 30, 2022) – Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the country, has announced the BBBSA Youth Equity and Empowerment Scholarship with support from the Deloitte Foundation. The scholarship program will provide young people with financial support for college and credentialing programs through the awarding of 60 scholarships.

High school juniors, seniors, and post-secondary students under 25 years old and enrolled in Big Brothers Big Sisters’ mentoring program during the 2022-2023 academic year are eligible for scholarships through the program. The scholarships will be for those with career interests in accounting, finance, economics, engineering, computer engineering, computer science, information systems, technology, data science, data analytics and math. Scholarships will be available to youth living or planning to go to school in 13 markets: Chicago, IL, Hartford, CT, Kansas City, MO, Milwaukee, WI, Minneapolis, MN, Nashville, TN, New York, NY, Omaha, NE, Parsippany, NJ, Philadelphia, PA, Pittsburgh, PA, Seattle, WA and Tampa, FL.

“We know when young people gain exposure and access to educational and career opportunities, it widens their view to the possibilities and potential ahead of them in life and career,” said Artis Stevens, president and CEO, BBBSA. “With the support of organizations like the Deloitte Foundation, we continue to empower the next generation on a path to graduate with a plan for their futures.”

“We are thrilled to be able to support an organization that continues to change lives through mentorship,” said Erin Scanlon, president, Deloitte Foundation. “Big Brothers Big Sisters of America uplifts communities and helps to empower youth so that they can aspire to fulfilling lives and careers.”

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About The Deloitte Foundation

The Deloitte Foundation, founded in 1928, is a not-for-profit organization that supports education in the U.S. through a variety of initiatives that help develop the next generation of diverse business leaders, and their influencers, and promote excellence in teaching, research and curriculum innovation. The Foundation sponsors an array of national programs relevant to a variety of professional services, benefiting high school students, undergraduates, graduate students and educators. Learn more about the Deloitte Foundation.

The Celebration Comes Just as Over 8,000 People Complete the Be There Certificate, a Free Online Course For Peer-to-Peer Mental Health Support

Toronto, Ontario (August 8, 2022) – Jack.org and Born This Way Foundation met in Toronto to celebrate the Be There Certificate’s positive impact on youth mental health since its launch in early March of this year. The meeting brought together staff and youth from both organizations, including a pledge from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America to support the Be There Certificate and promotion of the certificate at Lady Gaga’s Chromatica Ball Summer Stadium tour stop in Toronto.

The Be There Certificate is a free, self-paced, interactive online mental health course designed to increase mental health literacy and provide youth with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to safely support anyone who may be struggling with their mental health. Since its launch, over 8,000 people have completed the Be There Certificate, available globally in English, French, and Spanish. 

Jack.org, a Canadian charity supporting education and action for youth mental health, and Born This Way Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting youth mental health and working with young people to build a kinder, braver world, collaborated to create the Be There Certificate. The goal of the Be There Certificate is to connect young people with a simple, actionable framework, teaching them how to recognize when someone might be struggling, understand their role in supporting that person, and learn how to connect that person to the help they need and deserve. 

“Young people want to be there for their own and their peers’ mental health. Through the Be There Certificate, we have an opportunity to connect young people with free, accessible mental health resources and the tools to support themselves and each other,” said Cynthia Germanotta, Co-Founder and President of Born This Way Foundation. “The Be There Certificate provides a unique opportunity to encourage comprehensive, inclusive, and kind mental health support.”

As an example of the Be There Certificate’s ongoing success, the preeminent youth mentorship organizations, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, are partnering with Jack.org and Born This Way Foundation to introduce the Be There Certificate to more than 10,000 people throughout their networks and are pledging their local agencies to complete the certificate. 

“Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada proudly supports the Be There Certificate. We know that young people need access to a web of supportive individuals who are prepared and ready to support their unique needs, like facing mental health adversities. That’s why we commit to challenging our Big Brothers Big Sisters colleagues across Canada to earn their Be There Certificate,” said W. Matthew Chater, President and CEO of Brothers Big Sisters of Canada.

“Big Brothers Big Sisters is the leading organization championing mentorship experiences for young people across the country and the right leader to help provide youth with the relationship supports to address the mental health crisis in our nation,” said Julie Novak, Chief Youth Protection Officer, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “Our commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (JEDI) is an integral part of Big Brothers Big Sisters’ values and mission. We strive to empower the full potential that is within all of us by ensuring that all voices and perspectives are heard, honored and supported. We are proud to partner with Jack.org and Born This Way Foundation to bring the Be There Certificate program to our network.”

Throughout their collaboration, Jack.org and Born This Way Foundation have fostered a close working relationship with one goal: to uplift youth and connect them to the help they need. Following a survey, those who have taken the course have said that the Be There Certificate “was an easy-to-use, straightforward and interactive way to further strengthen the ways I can be there for my loved ones” and 98% of learners feel better able to safely support someone who is struggling with their mental health. 

“We are thrilled to see the growing momentum around the Be There Certificate. Five short months from launch and already thousands of people are better equipped to support their young peers, friends, and loved ones experiencing mental health struggles. We’re proud to be working with these outstanding partners to rapidly spread awareness and uptake of this freely accessible and engaging resource across Canada, the US, and beyond,” said Shane Green, VP Programs at Jack.org.

To learn how to pledge with your organization, contact bethere@jack.org.

To learn more about the Be There Certificate, visit BeThereCertificate.org.
The Be There Certificate is funded in part by RBC Future Launch and other generous partners who supported the development of the Be There program through their partnership with Jack.org.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States, has named Travis Gibson as its Chief Technology Officer. In this role, Gibson will lead the long-term strategic planning and implementation of information technology investments for BBBSA and its network of over 230 agencies. In addition, his leadership will establish and oversee enterprise network architecture to ensure system interoperability and information sharing, maintaining information security and privacy across the organization’s network.

Gibson brings expertise as a senior technology leader and corporate strategist from a diverse range of technologies across multiple industry settings. He has served as the Chief Information Officer and Chief Information Security Officer advisor for organizations including LVMH, DeBeers Diamond Jeweler’s, Cox Automotive, Michael Kors, Council of School Supervisors (NYC), Vera Wang, and others. During his early career as an IT engineer, he worked for Amazon, Choice Hotels International, and a large medical network in Arizona.

“I am thrilled to join the organization at such a pivotal time and honored to lead the highly talented IT team here at BBBSA,” said Gibson. “The vision and opportunity to advance our systems for the entire Big Brothers Big Sisters network will help deliver on our mission today and in the future.”
Prior to joining BBBSA, Travis was the Head of Cybersecurity, Infrastructure and IT Operations for Make-A-Wish America, with responsibility for developing and maintaining the enterprise cybersecurity program, the enterprise IT infrastructure, application support, and IT operations for over 10,000 employees and volunteers in the U.S. and territories.

“The foundation of our work is human connection and today’s technology developments offer the opportunity to transform relationships by empowering every single constituency of our network—donors, partners, volunteers, parents, staff, boards and young people,” said Artis Stevens, president and CEO, BBBSA. “I am looking forward to collaborating with Travis on our digital transformation across the organization and ensure agencies are able to create more accessible and innovative ways to support life-changing mentoring experiences for our Bigs and Littles.”

Gibson will remain based in Arizona with his wife and three children. Additionally, Gibson serves as the IT and Cybersecurity Advisor of the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce playing a key role in identifying high school curriculum to support youth career development in technology. He is also a member of the Information Systems and Control Association and holds several industry professional certifications in Technology, Cybersecurity and Business.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the country’s preeminent leader in one-to-one youth mentoring, has appointed Suzy DePrizio, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer for Centene Corporation, as its newest board member. In addition, Michael Carrel, president and CEO of AtriCure, is named the new national board chair and Tony Coles, president of the Black Information Network, division president of the iHeartMedia Markets Group, is named board vice chair for the organization.

DePrizio brings a powerhouse of marketing experience to the board. In her role at Centene, a diversified healthcare enterprise serving more than 26 million under-insured and uninsured people across the country, DePrizio leads brand development, marketing strategy, advertising, and communications.

“Suzy not only brings a wealth of expertise to our board, but also passion for our mission,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “Her diverse background in marketing, organizational leadership and nearly a decade of military service will further support the organization’s long-standing mission to empower all young people with a mentor whose impact lasts a lifetime.”

DePrizio joins current BBBSA Board members, including executives from Fortune 500 companies.

“It’s an honor to join the BBBSA board at such a crucial time for our nation’s youth,” said DePrizio. “Together with the board and tremendous leadership at BBBSA, I look forward to creating even greater access to powerful mentorship experiences that can help set our youth on the path to lifelong success.”

Along with DePrizio’s announcement, Michael Carrel has been appointed BBBSA’s national board chair and Tony Coles as BBBSA’s national board vice chair.

Having been involved in Big Brothers Big Sisters for over 30 years, Carrel has a deep commitment to BBBSA serving on the national board for the past year. Carrel previously served as a Big Brother in the Chicago area and continued his work in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area as a board member for the local Big Brothers Big Sisters agency.

In addition, Coles brings expertise in media and a passion for mentorship, especially in reaching communities of color, to BBBSA to increase equity and make a lasting impact on the lives of young people. In his role as Division President of Metro Markets for iHeartMedia, he oversees the complete profitability for 21 iHeartMedia markets across the U.S. In 2020, he was instrumental in the launch of BIN, the first and only audio network that provides 24/7 news and objective information with a full focus on the Black community and as president, leads all operations for the Network.

“I’m incredibly inspired by the important work of Big Brothers Big Sisters and its 230 member agencies around the country,” said Carrel. “The impact these groups and individuals have on the youth of America is profound, and I’m humbled and excited to help represent and advocate for the needs of our agencies, mentors, and the broader community as Chair.”

“I am honored to work with Michael and Tony as they lead us into the next chapter of our work,” said Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “Both leaders’ exceptional commitment to Big Brothers Big Sisters will continue to advance our mission to create greater equity and access to mentorship experiences for all young people across the nation.”

Bigs and Littles of The Year Serve as Ambassadors to Increase Awareness of the Need for More Volunteer Mentors

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States, announced the Bigs and Littles of the Year at the 2022 Bigger Together celebration, hosted by Multi-Platinum Recording Artist and Actress Jordin Sparks. The awardees consisted of two volunteer mentors (“Bigs”) and two youth (“Littles”) who were selected out of the 400,000 Bigs, Littles and families participating in the program each year.

The award ceremony was held in Indianapolis, Indiana during Big Brothers Big Sisters of America’s annual “Bigger Together” National Conference, supported by Comcast/NBCUniversal and Centene.

“It is truly an honor to celebrate the life-changing connections and growth that we see with our Bigs and Littles as they’ve developed meaningful relationships. We’re thrilled to honor Jerome and Jaylen, and Kathy and Lucian as our Bigs and Littles of the Year,” says Artis Stevens, president and CEO, BBBSA. “Both matches showcase the true power of mentorship and connection – serving as examples of the extraordinary bonds made every day through Big Brothers Big Sisters.”

Each year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America honors two outstanding matches to serve as the nationally recognized representatives of Big Brothers Big Sisters. These matches are nominated by their local agency to illustrate how the mentoring relationship helps Littles achieve their biggest possible futures and also makes a long-lasting impact on the Big.

Big Jerome and Little Jaylen

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles (BBBSLA)

“My Big Brother Jerome has shown me how to conduct myself in public, by being an example and trying new things. I also believe I taught him to take chances on things that he would not normally do, like watching a scary movie or riding a rollercoaster.”

Big Brother Jerome and Little Jaylen first matched in September 2016, with Jerome’s goal of providing his own great experiences to help guide a young man’s path to success. With a common interest of sports, Jerome bought every sports ball he could find in an effort to make Jaylen feel comfortable for their first outing at a park. From that outing, their relationship has grown, and they have experienced amazing moments together including the Superbowl LVI in February 2022.

Throughout Jerome and Jaylen’s experience together, they both have seen each other grow in many ways. Jerome realized through this mentorship that he wanted to do much more with the organization and joined the BBBSLA Junior Board. As the current Junior Board Co-Chair, he helps build a community amongst the Bigs, enrich the match experience, and increase overall awareness of the mentoring program through the Los Angeles County. In addition to his time on the board, Jerome serves on the BBBSLA Fund Development Committee, regularly volunteers to provide meals to the homeless and helps provide resources for financial literacy to his network – setting a great example for Jaylen.

Jaylen is aware of all of the hard work that Jerome does for his community and sees the impact that he makes for BBBSLA. Jaylen is proud of all the work that his Big Brother does and is grateful for all of the experiences they have had over the past six years. He wants to let those who are entering the mentorship program to remember the following: “Embrace every experience that you and your Big may have together. Listen and learn by example.”

Big Kathy and Little Lucian

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Atlantic & Cape May Counties

“Kathy still is the most stable thing I have in my life thus far, and has been for the past six years.”

Looking back on the past couple of years, Lucian remembers that 2016 was one of the hardest years of his life, but Big Sister Kathy was always there to help support him as much as possible.

Throughout the last two years, Lucian struggled with identity and mental health throughout the pandemic. By having such a strong relationship, Lucian felt comfortable enough to share with Kathy at one of their outings that he no longer identified as a girl and explained how he has been feeling internally. Lucian not only has grown and learned from Kathy, but he has taught her how to be your most authentic self. “Lucian taught me that being honest with yourself was one of the most valuable things you could do. In two short hours, he taught me how to “think outside of the box”.”

Lucian is grateful for Kathy for showing nothing but love and care throughout their relationship and for inviting him into her family as if he was her own. His piece of advice to all Bigs in the program to remember to listen: “The biggest piece of advice I can give you is to simply listen to them. Learn about their interests and engage with them. You can be completely clueless about what they’re talking about but just knowing that someone is listening to them and trying to understand what is being said is so reassuring.”

Former Bigs and Littles recognized for their commitment and impact made through mentorship

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the preeminent one-to-one youth mentoring organization in the United States, announced the first class of inductees to its inaugural Alumni Hall of Fame, honoring former Bigs and Littles that have championed the power of mentorship throughout the organization’s 116-year history. BBBSA recognizes these leaders whose dedication and achievements have significantly furthered its mission of inspiring young people’s passions and empowering them to achieve success in life and career.

The induction ceremony was held in Indianapolis, Indiana, during Big Brothers Big Sisters of America’s annual ‘Bigger Together’ National Conference, supported by Comcast/NBCUniversal and Centene. Nearly 3,000+ in-person and virtual attendees from across the country joined host, Kate Snow, former Big and current NBC Nightly News Sunday Anchor and NBC News Senior National Correspondent, to honor the inductees as they shared inspiring stories about the role we all play in empowering young people and encouraging others to get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Featuring changemakers and leading executives in business, entertainment, politics, real estate and more, the Big Brothers Big Sisters Alumni Hall of Fame’s goal is to honor those whose mentorship impact has left a legacy across the organization and has seen firsthand the life-long impact that these relationships can have on one’s life.

The inaugural members of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Alumni Hall of Fame are (in alphabetical order):

• Emily Chen Carrera, Former Big and current BBBSA Board Member, Private Wealth Real Estate Specialist & Chief of Research, Olshan Realty, Inc.
• Tory Green, Former Little and current Special Agent, U.S. Secret Service
• Kate Snow, Former Big and current NBC Nightly News Sunday Anchor and NBC News Senior National Correspondent
• Steve Soboroff, Former Big, Businessman and Los Angeles Police Commissioner
• Mark Tillman, Former 3X Big and past General President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity
• The Honorable Robert Wilkins, Former Little and current United States Circuit Judge
• Don Wolf, Former Big and former president of BBBSA’s national board, President Emeritus, Do it Best Corp. (posthumous)

“We are honored to celebrate these former Bigs and Littles as the first class of inductees into our Alumni Hall of Fame and recognize their personal journeys as they look back on their mentorship experiences and reflect on how it made an impact on where they are today,” says Artis Stevens, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. “Among the estimated 20 million alumni Bigs and Littles, these individuals know firsthand the life-long impact that mentorship can have on one’s life and they are true champions of our vision to empower every child with a plan for their future, and a mentor whose impact can last a lifetime.”