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In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, our CEO, Sandy Morales shared her experiences as a Mexican American. What is your ethnic background? Mexican. Both of my parents were born in Mexico and immigrated to the United States about 44 years ago. What elements of your culture are most important to you? I really value my indigenous roots and history and…
Mentoring has many advantages, but there are many misconceptions that go along with it. Here are some myths versus realities surrounding mentoring relationships: Myth: Because my Little is quiet, it means they do not like me and want to hang out with me.Reality: Sometimes it can take a few outings for your little to open up and learn to trust…
From the beginning, Alex has been dedicated and committed to Ja’Ziah. Not only is Alex a role model and a friend to Ja’Ziah, but they see each other as family. (So much so that Alex had Ja’Ziah be in her wedding, which was a beautiful and memorable occasion.) Alex helps guide Ja’Ziah by helping her build self-confidence, dream big, and…
What inspired you to become a Big? I became a Big because I wanted to make an impact and be involved directly in a young person’s life. There are so many volunteer organizations but none as unique as Big Brothers Big Sisters with a direct match and relationship with a youth that builds over time. What do you and your…
From BBBS Staff: Victoria and Christy have a very strong bond with each other, despite having gotten matched a little later than most, when Victoria was already a teenager. They do a variety of activities together, such as hiking, visiting gardens, and going to Overture Center shows. They’re often seen together at BBBS program and fundraising events, and were even…
Big Brother Jacob reflects on why he's a Big and how his Little Brother has affected his life in a positive way. "I first became a Big because it seemed like a uniquely fun way to volunteer. The idea of having an impact in my community while simply playing with, teaching, or just chitchatting with a friend was so appealing.…
Bruce and Di have been involved with BBBS for over 40 years, serving as Bigs for three Little Brothers. Bruce started as a Big to Little Brother Erik when he was still single, and the Match continued as Bruce and Di got married and started their family. Bruce was able to help Erik through some very difficult times, which made…
For some Matches, there isn’t always an immediate spark - connection takes time. That was the case for Big Sister Ann and Little Sister Fatou. When the pair were first matched in 2012, Ann never knew quite where she stood with her Little Sister. Fatou was reserved, giving one-word answers to Ann’s questions. But Fatou kept showing up each Friday,…
Big Brother Dan was matched with Kordell in 2018, and they hit it off immediately on their first outing to Java Cat, where they connected over hot chocolate and games. They continued getting together weekly, with Dan showing up for Kordell’s soccer games and birthday parties. When COVID hit in 2020 and they had to move their relationship online, they…
BBBS Board Member Kiah Calmese Walker shares why mentoring is important to her: In February, my elementary school principal, childhood mentor, and role model, Dr. Feager A. Coe-Pertilla, passed away. This amazing woman provided such a beautiful, poised, classy, firm, highly-educated, and controlled representation of Black Leadership for me. When black excellence was rarely recognized in the educational systems, she…