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Mar 10
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Womens History Month - Celeste Roberts

Women’s History Month- Celeste Roberts

By Uncategorized

This Women’s History Month, we proudly honor Celeste Roberts a visionary leader, a lifelong mentor, and a champion for the young people and families of East Tampa.  As a former Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay volunteer Big Sister, she built a bond so strong that she still keeps in touch with her Little Sister Ciera today.  That commitment to showing up, staying connected, and believing in a young person’s future continues to shape everything she does.

As Co-Founder and CEO of the Skills Center, she has transformed sports into a pathway for academic success, life skills, and generational change.  Her leadership has driven major milestones, including a multi-million-dollar development project and the organizations 2021 expansion into a permanent home.  Recognized as a 2024 Businesswoman of the Year and Onyx Magazine’s 2025 Women on the Move, Celeste continues to uplift youth, families, and communities with the same heart she brought to her years as a Big Sister.  A proud Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc sister, her legacy is rooted in service, equity, and mentorship. 

Celeste’s journey began when she shifted from a business career to youth development after launching a college prep program.  She discovered her calling in serving underserved, predominantly minority youth, a mission that mirrors the heart of our Edgecomb Mentoring Circle Initiative, which focuses on East Tampa’s young people and families.

In Her Own Words:

“When you invest in a young person, you’re not just changing their life, you’re changing the trajectory of a family, a neighborhood, and a community.  That’s why I do this work.”  ~Celeste Roberts~

Celeste’s love for East Tampa is woven into every program she builds and every young person she lifts up.  Her work embodies the spirit of Women’s History Month.  Women who create pathways, open doors, and build futures.  Her leadership reminds us that mentorship is not a moment; it’s a legacy.

As we honor Celeste Roberts, we also honor the countless women who mentor, advocate, and lead with purpose.  In East Tampa alone, 75 young people are waiting for a mentor who will believe in them the way Celeste believes in her community.

This month, we celebrate her story and we invite others to follow her example. 

Become a mentor. Change a life. Strengthen a community. 

Click the link below for more info: 

Be A Big – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay

Mar 09
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a big couple and a little having icecream

Big Couple Spotlight

By Match Stories, Uncategorized

When Jorge was 12 years old, his mom Carmen enrolled him in Big Brothers Big Sisters with a simple hope: that her shy son would have a supportive role model who could help build his confidence, offer encouragement, and open the door to new experiences. As a single parent raising Jorge and his younger sister, Carmen knew the power of one-on-one attention, especially for a young person navigating adolescence with limited support from his father, who lives in Puerto Rico and has a history of arrest.

At the time he entered the program, Jorge struggled with school engagement, had low self-esteem, and was managing mild ADHD. He was quiet, unsure of himself, and unsure of his future. What he did not know was that he would soon be matched with not one, but two dedicated mentors who would walk alongside him during some of his most formative years.

Jorge was matched with a Big Couple just before his 13th birthday. Nearly two years later, that match continues to thrive. From the beginning, the connection was built through shared experiences. Together, they have explored museums, tried international foods, solved escape rooms, attended orchestra performances, played board games, and turned everyday moments like car rides into opportunities for fun and conversation. One of Jorge’s unexpected favorite activities quickly became museum visits, including trips to the Dali Museum, the Tampa Bay History Center, and the Holocaust Museum, which aligned with what he was learning in school. After one particularly heavy visit, the day ended with bowling and ice cream, a balance of reflection and joy that reflects the care his Bigs bring to their relationship.

Over time, Jorge’s outlook on school and his future has shifted. His ability to set goals, reflect on his progress, and take responsibility for his choices has grown significantly. Each year, Jorge and his Bigs participate in a goal-setting tradition where he identifies three personal goals and revisits them quarterly, scoring himself and discussing next steps. Through this practice, Jorge has developed greater self-awareness, confidence, and communication skills. These strengths recently showed up in a tangible way when he started his first job at Publix, navigating new responsibilities with pride and maturity.

Carmen has noticed the difference. She shares that Jorge listens closely to his Bigs and has been exposed to opportunities she may not always have the time or resources to provide. Most importantly, she sees her son widening his horizons and growing into himself.

For the Big Couple, the impact has been just as meaningful. They joined the program because they love learning, trying new things, and spending time with young people. Mentoring together allowed them to bring different perspectives to the relationship while supporting Jorge as a team. What they discovered is something they now say often: strong connections are built on shared experiences, regardless of age or background.

Today, Jorge is a curious, thoughtful 10th grader with growing confidence and a clearer sense of direction. His Bigs describe the match as one of the greatest joys in their lives, a relationship that has expanded their world and deepened their belief in the power of mentorship. They are passionate advocates for the Big Couple program and frequently share their experience with friends, colleagues, and professional networks, helping others see mentoring as something that can be done together.

Jorge’s story is a powerful reminder that when caring adults show up consistently, stay curious, and create space for connection, young people do not just grow, they thrive.

Mar 08
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bbbs womens history month

Women’s History Month- Doretha Edgecomb

By Uncategorized

Throughout Women’s History Month, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay is celebrating women whose leadership, service, and dedication have strengthened our community and shaped the lives of young people across Tampa Bay.

Few individuals embody that impact more than Doretha Edgecomb.

A pillar of strength, education, mentorship, and community in East Tampa, Mrs. Edgecomb has spent decades advocating for children and families. As an educator, Hillsborough County School Board member, community leader, wife, and mother, she has dedicated her life to ensuring that every child has access to opportunity, encouragement, and support.

Her work has left a lasting imprint across our region, inspiring generations of young people and community leaders. That legacy lives on through the Edgecomb Mentoring Circle, a Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay initiative focused on expanding mentorship opportunities for youth in East Tampa. The program continues the work Mrs. Edgecomb championed by empowering young people, strengthening community connections, and ensuring every child knows they matter.

Mrs. Edgecomb is also a proud and longtime member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., carrying forward the sorority’s tradition of sisterhood, scholarship, and service in everything she does. Her life’s work is a powerful reminder that mentorship can change the trajectory of a child’s future.

As Mrs. Edgecomb has said, “Children rise when someone believes in them, and every one of us has the power to be that someone.”

Today, 75 children in East Tampa are waiting for a mentor. While that number has decreased from 80, it is still far too many young people waiting for someone to show up for them. You can help continue the legacy of leaders like Doretha Edgecomb by becoming a volunteer mentor. Together, let’s invest in the next generation and ensure every child has someone in their corner.

Become a Big today!

Jan 23
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Robyn and Clinton sitting with Fox 13 for interview

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay Featured on FOX 13 to Highlight National Mentoring Month Partnership

By In The News

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay was proud to be featured live on FOX 13 during the station’s noon broadcast to highlight National Mentoring Month and a powerful new community partnership.

Joining the segment were Robyn Ostrem, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, and Clinton Johnson, Board Member of Benchmark International. Together, they shared how BBBS, Benchmark International, and the Tampa Bay Lightning have come together this January to shine a spotlight on mentorship and encourage more adults to step up as Big Brothers and Big Sisters.

During the interview, Robyn spoke about the urgent need for mentors in Tampa Bay, where more than 1,000 children are currently waiting for a Big. Clinton shared why Benchmark International is proud to support BBBS through this partnership and why investing in mentorship strengthens the entire community.

The conversation focused on how becoming a Big does not require special skills or a large time commitment, just consistency, care, and a willingness to show up. With a two week push underway to recruit 50 new Bigs, the message was clear: now is the time to get involved.

National Mentoring Month is a reminder that small moments of connection can create lifelong impact for a child.

👉 Watch the full FOX 13 interview here.

👉 Interested in becoming a Big? Visit bbbstampabay.org/be-a-big to learn more and sign up.

Jan 08
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Big Sister and Little sister of the year image looking at each other

Our 2026 Big Sister & Little Sister of the Year

By Match Stories

A Quiet Start, a Powerful Bond

Some mentoring stories are loud and full of big moments. Others unfold gently through patience, trust, and showing up exactly when it matters most. Sandra Tidd and her Little Sister, Allyson, remind us that growth does not have to be rushed to be extraordinary.

We’re honored to celebrate Sandra and Allyson as our 2026 Big Sister and Little Sister of the Year 💚

From Small Steps to Big Confidence

Allyson was just 6 years old when she joined Big Brothers Big Sisters. She lived with her single mom and older siblings, and opportunities to explore new places or activities were limited. She had never met her biological father and was incredibly shy. Quiet, introverted, and often hesitant to communicate.

Her family hoped a Big Sister could offer something special. A positive female role model, new experiences, and someone who could gently help Allyson build confidence.

That someone was Sandra.

Their match started simply. Board games at home, low-pressure conversations, and time spent building trust. Slowly, outings expanded beyond the house, and with each shared experience, Allyson grew more comfortable stepping outside her comfort zone.

Growing Together Over Nearly a Decade

Over 9.5 years, this match has blossomed in ways both big and small. Today, Allyson is 16 years old, in 10th grade, and recently earned A–B honor roll for the first time since elementary school. A huge milestone.

She is more social, more independent, and more confident navigating the world around her. From riding public transportation and spending time with friends to trying new foods and learning to cook, Allyson has gained skills that extend far beyond academics.

Sandra has been right there alongside her. Thrifting, visiting museums, attending BBBS events, swimming, cooking, and modeling communication, resilience, and problem-solving every step of the way.

Standing Strong Through Life’s Hard Moments

Like any long-term relationship, this match faced challenges. When Allyson was around 12, a family trip coincided with the loss of a loved one, and she withdrew emotionally for months. Sandra worked closely with the family, offering support without pressure. When the time was right, their bond picked up right where it left off, anchored by their annual holiday tradition.

Later, roles briefly reversed when Sandra was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2024. During a pause in activities, Allyson showed patience, understanding, and care. Today, Sandra is in remission, and the match has joyfully returned to spending time together, stronger than ever.

A Life-Changing Relationship for Both

Sandra describes her relationship with Allyson as life-changing. Mentoring has brought her joy, purpose, and companionship, especially during challenging seasons in her own life. Watching Allyson grow, celebrating her wins, and sharing everyday moments has deepened Sandra’s connection to the BBBS mission.

As Sandra beautifully shared:

“She has given me the opportunity to do things I love to do and the need to mentor and love a child in my life.”

For Allyson, the impact is clear. She is still thoughtful and introverted, but now she is confident, curious, and willing to try. She has learned independence without losing her gentle nature, and she knows she has a consistent, caring adult in her corner.

Why This Match Inspires Us

Sandra and Allyson reflect the heart of mentorship. Patience, trust, and steady presence over time. Their story shows that even the quietest beginnings can lead to powerful outcomes, and that showing up consistently can change a life.

We are proud to celebrate them as our 2026 Big Sister and Little Sister of the Year and grateful for the example they set for our entire community.

Inspired by Sandra and Allyson? You can make this kind of impact, too. Becoming a Big does not require special skills, just consistency, care, and a willingness to show up. Whether you want to learn more or are ready to take the next step, we are here to support you.

Learn more about becoming a Big

Jan 08
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2026 Big Brother and Little Brother of the Year

Our 2026 Big Brother & Little Brother of the Year

By Match Stories

Celebrating Big Impact

Some mentoring relationships are special from the start. Others grow stronger with time, consistency, and showing up again and again. Russell Nelson and his Little Brother, Yulon, are a powerful example of what can happen when one caring adult stays the course.

We’re proud to name Russell and Yulon our 2026 Big Brother and Little Brother of the Year 💚

A Match That Grew Up Together

Yulon was just 10 years old when he was matched with Russell. His guardian was raising multiple children and hoped to connect Yulon, an energetic kid who loved sports, with a positive male role model who could offer guidance, structure, and encouragement. At the time, Yulon was navigating ADHD, an Individualized Education Plan, and speech therapy.

Enter Russell.

What began as a mentoring match quickly became a steady, trusted relationship, one that has now lasted more than seven years. Over that time, Russell has been there through school challenges, behavioral hurdles, and major life transitions.

Showing Up Through Every Season

Life did not always move in a straight line for Yulon. Like many kids, he faced setbacks, especially during the pandemic and throughout adolescence. When school disruptions, discipline issues, and even an expulsion threatened to derail his progress, Russell did not disappear.

Instead, he doubled down.

From homework help and regular check-ins to tough conversations and constant encouragement, Russell remained a calm, consistent presence. When Yulon missed part of a sports season due to a school incident, Russell helped him work through the disappointment, stay focused, and get back on track for graduation.

Today, Yulon is graduating high school and exploring next steps, whether that is college athletics or a future connected to boating. Along the way, Russell has been right there. He cheered at senior night, celebrated birthdays, and even shared the joy of his own wedding day with Yulon by his side.

A Two-Way Impact

Ask Yulon what makes Russell such an incredible Big, and he will tell you it is simple. He listens. Russell models leadership, humility, and empathy, helping Yulon think through challenges and make better decisions. Yulon says he would not be the same person without his Big, and that kind of impact lasts long after a match ends.

For Russell, mentoring Yulon has been just as meaningful. Walking alongside him on senior night stands out as one of the most significant moments of his life as a mentor. Watching Yulon grow from a shy child into a confident young adult has been an honor he does not take lightly.

As Russell puts it:

“One person’s steady presence can change the direction of a life. Choose to be that presence. Choose to be Big!”

Why This Match Matters

Russell and Yulon represent what Big Brothers Big Sisters is all about. Long-term relationships, consistent support, and the belief that every child deserves someone in their corner. Russell has gone above and beyond as an ambassador for our mission, sharing his story, participating in events, and always putting what is best for Yulon first.

We could not be prouder to celebrate them as our 2026 Big Brother and Little Brother of the Year.

Inspired by Russell and Yulon? You can make this kind of impact, too. Becoming a Big does not require special skills, just consistency, care, and a willingness to show up. Whether you want to learn more or are ready to take the next step, we are here to support you.

Learn more about becoming a Big

Dec 29
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Meet Elena: One of the First to Say Yes to Robyn’s 100 New Bigs Challenge

By Match Stories

When Robyn launched the 100 New Bigs Challenge, Elena didn’t hesitate. She was one of the very first people to sign up, not because she wanted recognition, but because she believed in the power of showing up when it matters most.

For Elena, becoming a Big felt personal.

She believes deeply in the impact of consistent presence and credits the supportive adults in her own life with helping her feel seen, encouraged, and confident. Mentorship, to her, isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about listening, building trust, and letting a young person know they’re not alone.

“Being a Big felt like a meaningful way to show up consistently for a young person,” Elena shared. “Just by being myself and genuinely caring.”

Elena currently lives in St. Petersburg and works in the health and wellness space as a coach and instructor, supporting women as they build strength, confidence, and self-trust. Those same values naturally carry into her role as a mentor.

What makes her story even more meaningful is that this isn’t her first time as a Big. Over a decade ago, while attending the University of Vermont, Elena served as a mentor through Big Brothers Big Sisters. That experience stayed with her and ultimately brought her back.

“Returning to BBBS at this stage of my life feels incredibly full circle,” she says.

Elena’s early commitment to Robyn’s 100 New Bigs Challenge is a powerful reminder that mentorship starts with a simple yes. One decision. One step forward. One life-changing connection.

There is still time to join Elena and be part of this challenge before the end of the year. If you’ve been thinking about becoming a Big, now is the moment to step up, show up, and make a lasting difference.

Sign up today and help us reach 100 new Bigs before year end.

Nov 14
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Shop for a Cause This Holiday Season

By In The News

This holiday season, giving back is as easy as shopping where you already love to shop. From Macy’s and Nordstrom Rack to Crocs, HEYDUDE, and Dove products at Walmart, every purchase you make can help Big Brothers Big Sisters create more life-changing mentoring matches for youth across Tampa Bay and beyond.

Here are all the ways you can make an impact while you shop this year:

Macy’s – The Most Wonderful Stories Start Here 

From November 1 through December 24, Macy’s and Big Brothers Big Sisters are teaming up again to help make wonderful mentorship stories come to life. You can donate online or round up your in-store purchase at checkout to support BBBS youth mentoring programs.

Plus, 50% of the purchase price from select special gifts—designed by kids in BBBS programs—goes directly back to BBBS.

Your support helps empower youth to reach their full potential through the power of mentorship. Learn more: macys.com/purpose

Hashtags: #BeBig #BiggerTogether #MissionEveryOne

Nordstrom Rack – Sponsor-A-Moment Cards

Since 2019, Nordstrom Rack has raised nearly $4 million to help create meaningful mentorship moments nationwide. Now through December 31, you can make a BIG difference by purchasing a $10 Sponsor-A-Moment card in stores.

Every card helps fund mentoring opportunities that ignite the potential of youth across the country. Learn more: nordstromrack.com/bbbs

Hashtags: #BiggerTogether #BBBSxNordstromRack

Crocs + HEYDUDE – Step Up to Greatness

Crocs, Inc. and its brands, Crocs and HEYDUDE, are stepping up for mentorship this holiday season. From November 19 through December 31, you can donate in-store or online, and Crocs/HEYDUDE will match every donation up to $50,000!Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay had the special opportunity to take part in this national partnership through local store events that created unforgettable moments for our Bigs and Littles.

Over the course of three evenings, seven Big & Little matches visited Crocs and HEYDUDE store locations across Brandon, Tampa, and the surrounding area. Each store rolled out the red carpet with personal tours, goodie bags, food, and- much to our Littles’ delight- a brand-new pair of shoes.

Beyond the shoes, it was the kindness and hospitality from store staff that made the experience so memorable.

As one match shared: “Thank you so much for the generous gift and the warm hospitality. It was a fun and thoughtful gesture, and we appreciate the team members that made our visit extra special.” – Donesha & Le’Arie

We’re so grateful to Crocs x HEYDUDE and to the local store teams who made our matches feel seen, welcomed, and celebrated.

Hashtags: #BiggerTogether #BBBSxCrocs #BBBSxHEYDUDE

Dove + Walmart – Keep Her Confident

Did you know that 45% of girls drop out of sports due to low body confidence? That’s why Dove and Walmart have teamed up with BBBS to keep girls in the game through mentorship. Throughout 2025, when you shop Dove products (excluding Dove Men+Care) at Walmart stores or online, a portion of your purchase helps fund mentorship programs for young women and girls—building self-esteem, confidence, and community.

Learn more: dove.com/confidentsportsHashtags: #BBBSxDove #BBBSxWalmart #KeepHerConfident #BiggerTogether

Every Purchase Makes a Difference

Whether you’re shopping for gifts, self-care favorites, or a new pair of comfy shoes, your purchases this holiday season can help Big Brothers Big Sisters continue to ignite potential and create brighter futures for local youth.

Thank you for shopping with purpose, and making this season a little more meaningful.

Nov 10
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good day tampa bay picture

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay Featured on FOX 13’s Good Day Tampa Bay for National Mentoring Day

By In The News

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay was honored to be featured live on Good Day Tampa Bay (FOX 13) in celebration of National Mentoring Day, a day that highlights the power of mentorship and the impact of relationships that help young people reach their full potential.

Joining the morning show were Carl and Calab, our 2025 Big and Little Brothers of the Year, along with Robyn Ostrem, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay and a former Big Sister.

The live discussion, hosted by the FOX 13 team, focused on how simple acts of connection can make a big difference. Robyn shared her perspective as both a former mentor and now CEO, emphasizing the urgent need for more volunteers, especially men, to step up for the more than 1,000 children currently waiting for a Big across the Tampa Bay area.

Carl and Calab shared their story as well, reflecting on how their match has grown over time and the many experiences they have shared, from community events to one-on-one time just hanging out. Their friendship embodies what mentorship is all about: consistency, connection, and growth.

“[Before Carl] I was shy and nervous,” Calab said. “I wouldn’t want to speak up if we went somewhere. He basically built my courage and built me out of that stage- helping me speak up and grow into who I am now.”

When asked what it is like to be a Big Brother, Carl said, “It’s one of the greatest experiences of my life.” 

As National Mentoring Day reminded viewers, there’s no better time to get involved. Whether you can give a few hours a month or volunteer for one of our special programs, your time can spark a lifetime of impact.

👉 Watch the full FOX 13 segment here: Watch Now
👉 Ready to become a Big? Visit bbbstampabay.org/be-a-big/ to sign up for an upcoming orientation and learn how easy it is to get started.

Oct 15
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school to work image of girl at hospital

How School-to-Work Is Opening Doors for Tampa Bay Students

By School-to-Work

For many teens, the question of “what’s next?” after high school can feel overwhelming. The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay’s School-to-Work program helps turn that uncertainty into opportunity by connecting local students with mentors and real-world experiences that inspire them to dream bigger and prepare for their futures.

Learning by Doing

Through partnerships with local school districts and corporate and community partners, School-to-Work gives high school students (Littles) a chance to step into professional workplaces once a month, meet caring mentors (Bigs), and explore career paths they may never have considered. Together, they spend time building workplace skills, learning about different industries, and talking about goals while developing lasting relationships that encourage Littles to stay in school and plan for life beyond graduation.

A Hospital Partnership That’s Making Headlines

One of the newest and most inspiring partnerships launched this year is with Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital in St. Petersburg, where 25 students have been paired with hospital staff members. For these teens, each visit offers a first-hand look at how a hospital operates, from the emergency department to labs and clinical care.

Among them are Carly Gerdes, a sepsis clinical coordinator, and her Little, 16-year-old Dorine Banyeretse. The two have been meeting monthly since last spring, and their bond has quickly grown beyond the walls of the hospital.

“It’s a nice experience,” Dorine told Bay News 9. “Overall, you get to make new friends, and meeting your Big is just a wonderful connection to have.”

Dorine dreams of becoming a neurologist, and Carly has made it her mission to help her explore that path, making sure Dorine gets to observe stroke alerts and understand the many ways neurologists interact with emergency and intensive care teams.

“It can help them decide what path they might want to take,” Carly said. “Even though I work in sepsis and the ER, I’m showing her all different sides of the hospital so she can see what fits her.”

Their story is one of hundreds happening across Tampa Bay. Together, they represent what School-to-Work is all about: exposure, encouragement, and empowerment through mentorship.

From Hospitals to Hockey Arenas

Beyond healthcare, the program is also expanding into new industries that excite and inspire students. This year, Big Brothers Big Sisters proudly launched a new partnership with the Tampa Bay Lightning, offering high schoolers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the region’s most dynamic sports organizations.

From community outreach and event operations to marketing and business management, Lightning staff are showing students that the world of sports extends far beyond the rink. These experiences help Littles see that their interests, whether in healthcare, business, or athletics, can lead to fulfilling careers right here in Tampa Bay.

Creating a Stronger Future Together

The impact of School-to-Work reaches far beyond the classroom. For students, it builds confidence and career readiness. For mentors and employers, it fosters connection, purpose, and pride in giving back to the community.

“Programs like this remind students that they’re not alone,” said Laura Petitt, Program Director for School to Work. “It’s about helping them navigate that transition from high school to life after and making sure they have a plan in place to be successful.”

With more than 400 students currently participating across Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk, and Pasco counties, the program continues to grow, powered by the belief that mentorship changes everything.

Learn more about how your organization can become a School to Work partner: https://bbbstampabay.org/programs/school-to-work/

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