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Jun 17
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ConGRADS to Our Students!

By In The News

Krina, a volunteer mentor, shared an update as a Big at IEL Shipping Solutions in our School-to-Work (STW) program. She attended her Little’s graduation from Jefferson High and had some positive news to pass along:

“Just wanted to share and again thank everyone at BBBS. I went to Becca’s graduation and met her entire family, which was amazing. Her mom and I were lowkey tearing up together and it was the sweetest thing ever! I genuinely want to thank you guys for this program. I truly did gain a little sister for life through this and we’re already making plans!

“To my Little Sister: I am so beyond proud of you. Being your mentor and watching you grow for the past three years has been such an honor! I can’t wait to see you flourish in this chapter.”

Big Sis Krina and Little Sis Rebecca met in December of 2022 in the School-to-Work program. They have communicated regularly and built a solid, deep relationship. Becca shared with us that her favorite thing about being in the program was just being able “to talk with Krina about life — past, present, and future.” Becca has been accepted to FAU and plans to start in the Fall! Now, Big & Little are planning to continue their relationship in our Big Futures program!

Let’s Get Started

In 2024, 2,500+ children were paired with caring adult mentors throughout Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk, Pasco, Citrus, Hernando, Marion, Sumter, and Alachua counties. Do something BIG for a Little in your community. Learn how to become a Big and be a positive, supportive mentor for youth in the greater Tampa Bay area at a Virtual Big Orientation & Training session.  View the schedule to get started making an impact on local youth with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay now! One benefit of mentoring with BBBS is flexibility. You choose when and how you volunteer with BBBS of Tampa Bay!

May 19
Love0

May We Say Hello

By In The News

Big Sister Jaclyn and Little Brother Jacory have been matched for nearly 8 years! Over time, they have grown a strong bond and refer to one another as “Big & Little J.” Initially, Jacory was a little hesitant about being paired “with a girl because they don’t like sports.” Jaclyn quickly showed him that “girls can be fun and participate in sports” and so much more! Now, Jacory feels grateful for his Big Sister; their match has blossomed into a true, joyful friendship. Their time together has been filled with fun and learning; Jacory introduced Jaclyn to gardening and now they swap plants. Other activities over the years include painting pottery, cheering on the Rays, building sandcastles, and cozy homework sessions at bookstores.
As Jacory transitioned into high school, their connection has strengthened. During the pandemic, they kept in touch using technology to make sure they stayed connected. Soon, Jacory will have a special role in Jaclyn’s wedding ceremony and has been part of the planning leading up to the big day! Their story is testament to how a meaningful match, nurtured with time and effort, can grow into a lifelong friendship. We are so honored to watch Jacory and Jaclyn grow and learn together. And who knows, we might just see Jaclyn standing by Jacory’s side on his big day!

Do you feel inspired by Jaclyn and Jacory’s story? You, too, can make a lasting difference in the life of a child and your community by becoming a Big! Mentorship is a powerful way to create positive change, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you’re ready to start your journey as a mentor, reach out today to learn more about how you can get involved. Together, we can build brighter futures, one match at a time!

Click Here to Learn More and Sign Up!

Apr 30
Love0

A Thirst For Knowledge

By In The News

Congratulations to 3 of our high school Littles who were awarded scholarships through the Coke Florida Refreshing Minds Scholarship program! These scholars are a testament to what’s possible when our community comes together to invest in youth potential. Raise a big, tall glass of Coke to Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC  for their continued support of education and empowerment.

Our scholars from left to right: Ba’kierra Henry, Kaliyah Preston, and Camila Suarez, recipients of a 2 year, 4 year, and 2 year scholarship, respectively.

About Coke Florida

Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC is a family-owned Coca-Cola bottler. Founded in 2015, the company is the sixth largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States. In 2025, Coke Florida was named a U.S. Best Managed Company Gold Winner by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal, following four consecutive years of recognition. The designation recognizes outstanding U.S. private companies and the achievements of their management teams in four key areas: strategy, ability to execute, corporate culture, and governance/financial performance. Coke Florida operates 18 sales and distribution territories and four manufacturing facilities across the state—in Jacksonville, Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. Each facility holds a GreenCircle Zero Waste to Landfill certification, which evaluates all waste leaving the site, including packaging and manufacturing waste generated prior to products reaching retail shelves. The designation acknowledges that 100 percent of the waste produced at the facility is recycled, repaired, reused, or converted into energy, demonstrating a commitment to preventing pollution and protecting the environment. Coke Florida is committed to the communities it serves and focuses on three (3) primary pillars: Sustainability, Economic Empowerment, and Education.

Let’s Get Started

In 2024, more than 2,549 children were paired with caring adult mentors throughout Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk, Pasco, Citrus, Hernando, Marion, Sumter, and Alachua counties. Do something BIG for a Little in your community. Learn how to become a Big and be a positive, supportive mentor for youth in the greater Tampa Bay area at a Virtual Big Orientation & Training session.  View the schedule to get started making an impact on local youth with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay now! One benefit of mentoring with BBBS is flexibility. You choose when and how you volunteer with BBBS of Tampa Bay!

Apr 15
Love0

Big Draft Spotlight: BBBS Tampa Bay Featured on ABC Action News

By In The News, Uncategorized

We’re excited to share that ABC Action News recently spotlighted Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay and our Big Draft campaign—our bold push to recruit 60 mentors in 60 days before the NFL Draft this April.

The news story highlights how our local chapter is stepping up during National Volunteer Month, encouraging the community to join our mission to empower youth through mentorship. This effort is part of a national collaboration with the NFL Inspire Change initiative, aligning our call for Bigs with the NFL’s recruitment season.

“Mentorship is game-changing,” said Chris Letsos, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay. “Just like in football, kids need a strong team behind them. Our Bigs provide the support, encouragement, and opportunities to help a young person succeed.”

Watch the segment below to meet some of the amazing Bigs and Littles changing lives across Tampa Bay:

Why Mentorship Matters

Mentorship is proven to deliver long-term impact. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America released a Harvard research study showing that:

  • 20% more likely to enroll in post-secondary education
  • 15% more lifetime earnings
  • Closes two-thirds of the economic opportunity gap for youth facing adversity

Whether you’ve thought about becoming a mentor or are just learning about us, this is your sign to get in the game. Join our team of Bigs and be the reason a child in your community feels seen, supported, and inspired.

Be Part of the Big Draft

If you’ve got four hours a month and a heart for giving back, this is your moment to step up. Become a Big and help us meet our goal of recruiting 60 new mentors before April 24.

Read the full ABC Action News story here:
 Big Brothers Big Sisters holding ‘Big Draft,’ looking for next team of mentors

Mar 25
Love0

Meet Our March Match

By Uncategorized

Since October 2020, Joyce and Yaretzi have shared an amazing bond of friendship and mentorship. Joyce has been an incredible role model, helping Yaretzi make wise choices and encouraging her to do her best. They even share the same zodiac sign—both Geminis with birthdays just five days apart!

Their adventures include visits to Dinosaur World, the RP Funding Center, Sea World, and even “Burger King car picnics” before movie nights. Yaretzi credits Joyce for helping her make better choices, especially in school, and describes her Big Sister as “fun, nice, smart, and exciting.” 

It’s been a joy to watch their relationship grow, and we can’t wait for the many more memories they’ll create together!

 

 

Mar 03
Love0

Suncoast Credit Awards $10,000 Grant to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa to Support Youth Mentoring Programs

By In The News

TAMPA, FLA. (March 3, 2025) — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay is honored to announce a generous $10,000 grant from Suncoast Credit Union. As a leading organization dedicated to mentoring and empowering youth, this grant will help expand and enhance mentoring programs to achieve the bold goal of serving 5,000 youth, making a significant impact on the lives of young people throughout the community.

The funding will be used to support one-to-one mentoring connections and impactful experiences for young people. By investing in mentorship and personal development Big Brothers/Big Sisters honors its mission to provide support, guidance, and opportunities for growth to youth who face various challenges, both personally and academically.

“We are grateful to Suncoast Credit Union for another year of support,” said Chris Letsos, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay. “This funding will allow us to reach more youth, enhance our programs, and provide essential tools to help students achieve their goals and build a brighter future. We are proud of this relationship with Suncoast Credit Union as part of their legacy in uplifting education, health, and the well-being of our young people.”

Alignment with the community is essential for the success of mentoring programs and expanding services to a larger audience.

“We remain committed to supporting organizations that create meaningful, lasting change in the lives of youth within our communities” says Jeff Kunberger, Executive Director of the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation. “Big Brothers Big Sisters shares our vision of mentorship, empowerment, and creating opportunity. We believe connection and engagement can create meaningful relationships and we are pleased to contribute to the worthy cause of mentorship.”

 

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay is part of the nation’s largest donor and volunteer-supported mentoring network and holds itself accountable for children in its program to achieve measurable outcomes, such as educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence, and better relationships. More than 2500 children were served in 2024 through one-to-one match relationships and group mentoring experiences across a 9-county service area: Alachua, Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Marion, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Sumter. Amongst those served, 83% received free/reduced lunch, 72% lived with a single parent or other caregiver, and 79% of the youth were children of color. For more information, please visit us at www.GoBigtampabay.org

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Suncoast Credit Union is the largest credit union in the state of Florida, the 8th largest in the United States based on membership, and the 10th largest in the United States based on its $18.4 billion in assets. Chartered in 1934 as Hillsborough County Teachers Credit Union, Suncoast Credit Union currently operates 81 full-service branches and serves more than 1.2 million members across Florida. As a community credit union, anyone who lives, works, attends school, or worships in Suncoast Credit Union’s service area is eligible for membership. In 2021,

Suncoast Credit Union’s field of membership was expanded to include public K-12 teachers, college educators, and educational support staff from all of Florida’s 67 counties. Suncoast is passionate about community support. Since its founding in 1990, the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation has raised and donated more than $53 million to organizations and initiatives that support the health, education, and emotional well-being of children in the communities that the credit union serves. For more information, visit suncoast.com

Jan 28
Love0
bbbs tampa bay big brother and big sister of the year

2025 Big Sister and Big Brother of the Year

By In The News

We are thrilled to announce the 2025 Big Sister and Big Brother of the Year: Janae and Carl! These extraordinary mentors have gone above and beyond in their commitment to making a difference in the lives of their Littles and their communities. Janae and Carl embody the spirit of mentorship, compassion, and resilience that are at the heart of our mission.

Janae and Taniya

Janae comes from a multi-generational Big family, her father having been a Big. Working in the Department of Juvenile Justice, she had seen many children in the community struggle. She felt like she could make a difference by helping them think a little bigger and gain different experiences.

Starting their match when Taniya was just 7, she is now 16 and maintains her honor roll status. Their lunch outings provided an escape from the world, providing some sense of normalcy, especially during times of adversity and housing instability.

“I’m proud of what she’s accomplished and where she’s gone; she has come so far. She didn’t always talk to me and express herself, but we’re working on talking things through. Her confidence went up, she is very articulate, and we chat non-stop now.
“I act as an external person who can talk to her and let her vent. Some of these kids have been let down so many times by other adults in and out of their lives.

Janae offers as a final piece of advice to future Big mentors: What we do is not extraordinary. It doesn’t take much time. It’s about consistency. To quote Dr. Seuss: Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”

Carl and Calab

“So many people say you can’t change the world, but I think you can.” Carl had a solid foundation growing up and later became a father. After the nest had emptied, he wanted to help young men without father figures. Now, Carl is proud of the mutual trust and understanding he shares with his Little Brother Calab.

Carl shares, “At first you might think ‘How am I going to entertain this kid?’, but BBBS makes it so easy. “Even from the beginning, we had lots of fun and didn’t have to try too hard. “Just show up and they know they can count on you.”

Calab is the oldest child out of four siblings – and the only boy. “There is a lot of love in that house, and I have a lot of admiration for Calab’s mom. She teaches them to be respectful. It was always ‘Mr. Carl’ when we first got together.”

Over the years, learning opportunities have come up, such as financial responsibility and opening an investment account. Calab’s A-B grades earn him frequent visits to a popular fast-casual Mexican food chain. His confidence has improved, resulting in better relationships inside the home and at school.

“Nothing is more important to the future than our kids. At the grassroots level, BBBS is shaping this future.”

Do you feel inspired by Janae and Carl’s stories? You, too, can make a lasting difference in the life of a child and your community by becoming a Big! Mentorship is a powerful way to create positive change, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you’re ready to start your journey as a mentor, reach out today to learn more about how you can get involved. Together, we can build brighter futures, one match at a time!

Click Here to Learn More and Sign Up!

Oct 07
Love0

Let’s Get Out The Vote!

By In The News

Voting is an important civic duty to engage in as an American citizen.

Tuesday, November 5 is General Election day, but you don’t have to wait until then to make your voice heard! To encourage voter participation, we are sharing polling locations, early voting dates, and other important information regarding the 2024 General Election. Please check your county’s Supervisor of Elections website for the most up to date information on voting locations and times. Early voting provides many location options. You must vote in your assigned precinct on Election Day. Please use the election poll locator to ensure you vote in the correct precinct or your vote will not be counted. Check your voter status and poll location here: https://dos.fl.gov/elections/for-voters/check-your-voter-status-and-polling-place/voter-precinct-lookup/

Key election dates to remember

  • Deadline to register to vote: October 7, 2024
  • Deadline to request that ballot be mailed: October 24, 2024
  • Early voting period: October 21 – November 3, 2024 (Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Polk Counties.)
  • Election Day: November 5, 2024

Need to register to vote or update your information?
Go to the Florida Division of Elections website. Update your location to ensure your vote will be counted. You can register to vote until October 7.

What should I bring to my polling site?
Bring one or two forms of current identification that include your signature and photo. You must have the cards with you — pictures of ID cannot be accepted. If you forget your ID, you may vote using a provisional ballot, which will later be evaluated by the Canvassing Board for eligibility.

Acceptable photo IDs for voting (bring 2 forms)

  • Florida Driver License
  • Florida ID Card issued by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
  • U.S. Passport
  • Debit or Credit Card
  • Military ID
  • Student ID
  • Retirement Center ID
  • Neighborhood Association ID
  • Public Assistance ID
  • Veteran Health ID (issued by VA)
  • Concealed Weapon License (issued pursuant to s. 790.06)
  • Government Employee ID

If your photo ID does not include your signature, you will be asked to provide another ID that has your signature. Its suggested that you bring your sample ballot with you to the polling place, marked with notes on how you plan to vote. Being prepared means the lines move faster for all voters.

If you received a Vote By Mail ballot and want to cast that ballot, you do not have to stand in line or go through the check-in process. Just look for the Secure Ballot Intake Station and drop your ballot off. If you requested a Vote By Mail ballot but have decided to vote in person instead, your Vote By Mail ballot will be canceled and a new ballot will be printed for you at the Early Voting site.

Pinellas County

Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections website:  www.votepinellas.gov
Early Voting: October 21 – November 3, Daily, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Election Day Voting Hours: November 5, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m

Pinellas County Early Voting Locations

  • Countryside Recreation Center – 2640 Sabal Springs Dr., Clearwater, FL 33761
  • Gulfport Neighborhood Center – 1617 49th St. S., Gulfport, FL 33707
  • J.W. Cate Recreation Center – 5801 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33710
  • Supervisor of Elections Office – Election Service Center – 13001 Starkey Rd., Starkey Lakes Corporate Center, Largo, FL 33773
  • Supervisor of Elections Office – County Building – 501 First Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701
  • Supervisor of Elections Office – Pinellas County Courthouse – 315 Court St., Room 117, Clearwater, FL 33756. Voter parking spots will be designated in courthouse parking lots
  • The Centre of Palm Harbor – 1500 16th St., Palm Harbor, FL 346

Hillsborough County

Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections website:  votehillsborough.gov/
Early Voting: October 21 – November 3, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Election Day Voting Hours: November 5, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m

Hillsborough County Early Voting Locations

  • Apollo Beach Recreation Center – 664 Golf and Sea Blvd, Apollo Beach, FL, 33572
  • Bloomingdale Regional Public Library – 1906 Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico, FL, 33596
  • Bruton Memorial Library – 302 W McLendon St, Plant City, FL, 33563
  • C. Blythe Andrews, Jr. Public Library – 2607 E Dr. MLK, Jr. Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33610
  • Fred B. Karl County Center – 601 E Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33602
  • Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library – 3910 S Manhattan Ave, Tampa, FL, 33611
  • Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library – 2902 West Bearss Avenue, Tampa, FL, 33618
  • Keystone Recreation Center – 17928 Gunn Hwy, Odessa, FL, 33556
  • Maureen B. Gauzza Public Library – 11211 Countryway Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33626
  • New Tampa Regional Library – 10001 Cross Creek Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33647
  • North Tampa Branch Library – 8916 North Blvd, Tampa, FL, 33604
  • Northdale Recreation Center – 15510 Hooting Owls Place, Tampa, FL, 33624
  • Northwest Regional Office – 4575 Gunn Hwy, Tampa, FL, 33624
  • Port Tampa Community Center – 4702 W McCoy St, Tampa, FL, 33616
  • Providence West Community Center – 5405 Providence Rd, Riverview, FL, 33578
  • Riverview Branch Library – 9951 Balm Riverview Rd, Riverview, FL, 33569
  • Robert L. Gilder Elections Service Center – 2514 N Falkenburg Rd, Tampa, FL, 33619
  • Robert W Saunders, Sr. Public Library – 1505 N Nebraska Ave, Tampa, FL, 33602
  • Seffner-Mango Branch Library – 410 N Kingsway Rd, Seffner, FL 33584
  • Southeast Regional Office – 10020-S US Highway 301, Riverview, FL, 33578
  • SouthShore Regional Library – 15816 Beth Shields Way, Ruskin, FL, 33573
  • SouthShore Regional Service Center – 410 30th St SE, Ruskin, FL, 33570
  • Temple Terrace Public Library – 202 Bullard Pkwy, Temple Terrace, FL, 33617
  • Town N Country Regional Public Library – 7606 Paula Drive, Tampa, FL, 33615
  • USF Training Center (PTB-Training Room) – 13309 USF Plum Dr, Tampa, FL, 33620
  • Victor Crist Community Center Complex (University Area Community Center) – 14013 N 22nd St, Tampa, FL, 33613
  • West Tampa Branch Library – 2312 W Union St, Tampa, FL 33607

Polk County

Polk County Supervisor of Elections website: www.polkelections.com/
Polk County Early Voting: October 21st – November 3rd
Election Day Voting Hours: November 5, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m

Polk County Early Voting Locations

  • Polk Street Community Center: 1255 Polk Street
  • Polk Sheriffs NE District Office, Community Room, 1100 Dunson Road
  • Haines City Library – 111 N 6th Street
  • NE Polk Government Center – 200 Government Center Blvd
  • Lake Wales Family Recreation Center – 1001 Burns Avenue
  • Polk County Government Center – 930 E Parker Street
  • Simpson Park Community Center – 1725 Martin L King Jr Avenue
  • Mulberry Civic Center – 901 NE 5th Street
  • Poinciana Community Fitness Center, 397 Marigold Avenue
  • Nora Mayo Hall – 500 3rd Street NW
Aug 01
Love0

National BBBS Month is Coming Up – National Big Brothers Big Sisters Month

By In The News

Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies across the United States and Canada will celebrate Big Brothers Big Sisters Month throughout the month of September. Our volunteer mentors support 41,000 youth in Canada and 109,254 in the United States. Big Brothers Big Sisters nationally has 230+ agencies in over 5,000 communities in all 50 states. Big Brothers Big Sisters Month — first founded by our neighbors to the north in Canada — recognizes the “critical importance of mentoring relationships, especially now, when our commitment to young people and the essential intervention service we provide is being challenged like never before.”

We aim to inspire youth from five through young adulthood. The pandemic has tested our collective resolve for more than a year now, but our kids, staff, and volunteers have shown strength and resiliency. Thanks to the generosity of our donors and the agility of program stakeholders, we were able to quickly and easily transition to a virtual environment. Kids are less likely to feel isolated and depressed when they have a consistent adult they can count on.

The numbers show that overall our matches are lasting longer than ever, with “typical Site-Based matches lasting nearly one and a half years – 34% longer than the average match length 10 years ago.”

Additionally, our Littles surveyed nationally last year made qualitative improvements in the eight outcome areas: Social Competence, Academic Performance/School Grades, Educational Expectations, Emotion Regulation, School Connectedness, Depressive Symptoms, Risky Behaviors – School Discipline, and Risky Behaviors – Bullying.

Ignite the power and promise of youth through one-to-one mentoring. Become a mentor or Big, and you can help a child reach their full potential with just a few hours of your time every month. It’s all about authenticity, and BBBS gives you access to trained staff to support your mentoring match. You don’t have to be perfect – just show up, be yourself, and have fun! #GoBig

 

Jul 29
Love0

School Supplies, Uniforms Tax Exempt

By In The News

August is here. Temperatures are still steamy, and it’s back to school time. At least we have the always-anticipated tax exempt period, this year from July 29 – Aug 11.

Most clothing, uniforms, shoes, school supplies and even laptops are eligible under the annual tax holiday in Florida. Join the community in back to school giveaway fun at various sites around Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco counties offering free and reduced price school supplies in a family-friendly atmosphere. Keep reading for the list:

  • The Suncoast News reports plenty of places in Pasco and Hernando counties offering goodies. Click here.
  • In the Brandon – Riverview area, ECHO offers some of the back to school basics. Click here for more information in English and Spanish.
  • Across Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties are multiple low cost and no cost fairs and functions

We hope the tips provided here help with a smoother summer to school transition.

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