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Oct 16

Agency Receives Honoree Status of Tampa Bay Business Journal’s One Tampa Bay Award

By In The News

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay was chosen as an honoree for the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s 2023 One Tampa Bay Award. Criteria for nonprofits focused on program efficacy, operating expenses, and strategic vision of the agency. Local businesses that engage in philanthropy and who embody corporate social responsibility will also be honored. The staff and volunteers The Tampa Bay Business Journal has celebrated nonprofits and philanthropy through its Nonprofit of the Year awards since 2005. Click here to meet all fifty of this year’s nonprofit and corporate honorees of the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s 2023 One Tampa Bay Award.

Oct 12

WEDU PBS Honors Volunteers at Annual Be More Inspired Event

By In The News

On October 5 at the Tampa River Center, WEDU PBS and Ernest Hooper from United Way Suncoast hosted leaders, volunteers, and sponsors to celebrate and honor the critical work of various nonprofits in our community. One of our Big Brothers, Darrell, was selected by our program staff to be filmed by WEDU PBS about his experiences as a volunteer and recognized at this special event. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay thanks Darrell, his Little Brother, and all of our friends at WEDU PBS!

See event photos below and watch Darrell’s WEDU PBS video highlight here. 

 

 

Oct 01

Deloitte Scholarships to Fund STEM Students in Tampa

By In The News

Our National office recently announced the return of 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. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America will award post-secondary scholarships to young people through the BBBSA Youth Equity and Empowerment Scholarship—with support from the Deloitte Foundation. This scholarship opportunity will help create pathways to opportunity for the workforce of tomorrow. Young people currently enrolled in Big Brothers Big Sisters during the 2023-2024 academic year as well as those formerly enrolled, are encouraged to apply.

Learn more about application requirements and complete your application here. 

Eligible applicants are:

  •  Senior high school student OR current post-secondary student up to 24 years of age.
  •  Enrolled in a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program during the 2023-2024 academic school year or formerly enrolled in a mentoring program.
  • Must select or plan to pursue one of the desired majors/fields of study outlined below.
  • Applicants must have participated or resided in the following market locations:

Eligibility is limited to students with career interests and academic pursuits in one of the following areas:

  • Accounting
  • Finance
  • Economics
  • Engineering
  • Information Systems
  • Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Technology
  • Data Analytics
  • Math
  • Aligned stackable credentials (i.e CLOUD, Cyber Security, FPNA)

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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.

Aug 30

Gamma Zeta Lambda Initiative Strengthens Big Brothers Big Sisters Partnership

By In The News, Match Stories

Gamma Zeta Lambda Initiative Strengthens Big Brothers Big Sisters Partnership

Innovative Program Serves as a Model for Serving Local Youth and Growing BBBS Mentoring Matches

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. – Gamma Zeta Lambda Chapter (GZL/Tampa Alphas) celebrates the second year of an expanded partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay (BBBS of Tampa Bay).

In honor of the 100th anniversary of Alpha Phi Alpha’s Go-To-High-School, Go-to-College, in 2022, GZL launched the dual-purpose Alpha Phi Alpha 100 Hours Initiative in Tampa. It’s a campaign to strengthen the fraternity’s Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBS) national partnership by increasing the number of Alphas signing up to become Bigs while developing a pipeline of young men for the chapter’s Men of Tomorrow (M.O.T) program, which offers opportunities for personal development, academic enrichment, and college readiness activities through 12th grade.

Gamma Zeta Lambda pledged to match with nine and ten-year-olds who, after spending 100 one-to-one mentoring hours with their Alpha mentor in BBBS community-based program, will be positioned to get involved with M.O.T. Studies show that formal mentoring relationships improve or maintain outcomes in areas from school attendance and academic performance to socialization with peers and self-confidence. The 100 Hours Initiative is a forward step in meeting the critical need for Black role models in the communities we serve.

For their increasing impact and introducing innovative ways for Alpha Phi Alpha to scale partnerships across the country, GZL received the inaugural Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Chapter of the Year Award at the 97th Anniversary General Convention in Dallas, TX.

The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Gamma Zeta Lambda Chapter was chartered in Tampa, Florida, in 1945 and has run the Men of Tomorrow program collaboratively with the GZL Educational Foundation since 1987.

Submitted by:
Brothers Jake Earl and Antwan Key
Gamma Zeta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity

August 26, 2023 | Gamma Zeta Lambda Chapter, Tampa, FL

Aug 04
Closeup of a "fistbump"

Do Something BIG for a LITTLE | 100 Men in 100 Days

By In The News, Resources

UPDATE: Have made a total of 32 connections so far thanks to Alpha Phi Alpha Gamma Zeta Lambda and other community members. The majority of the children on our waiting list are boys in need of a positive male role model to serve as a mentor and friend.

With 1 in 3 kids growing up without a mentor, from August 1 through November 9, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay is searching for 100 Men in 100 Days to volunteer and become a mentor to a boy in need of a positive role model. An overwhelming number of kids on our waiting have requested a Big Brother, or mentor, to connect with. While many of our Littles have at least one caring parent or guardian at home, studies show that a formal mentoring relationship improves or maintains outcomes in areas such as school attendance, academic performance, socialization with peers, and self-confidence. To aid in our quest for 100 Men, we’re sharing some basics on what it takes to be a volunteer Big Brother with BBBS of Tampa Bay:

 

Consistency is Key

The kids in our programs need stability and positivity. Keep your promises; show up when you say you’re going to show up. Throughout the relationship, simply being there is really what it’s all about. We understand there might be some hesitancy to join, but we match you with a Little Brother based on shared interests to ensure the relationship feels as natural as possible.

 

Use Your Resources

As a Big Brother with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, you have access to various resources such as conversation starters and invitations to exclusive Match events (see your match support team member and look in your Promotions folder email) where you’ll meet other volunteer Bigs. Your assigned Match Support Specialist (MSS) will check in with you, your Little Brother, and your Little Brother’s family member. This helps ensure the match continues to be sustainable and positive for all parties involved.

 

Why Volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay?

One benefit of mentoring with BBBS is flexibility. You choose when and how you volunteer with BBBS of Tampa Bay. Depending on the program, you’re required only to commit 4-8 hours per month or about every other week for 12-15 months minimum. You’re not only changing the life of your Little but you’re also bound to learn things about yourself. Mentoring really is a two-way street! Are you ready to be one of the 100 Men by doing something BIG for a Little?

 

Let’s Get Started

In 2022, more than 2,096 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!

Mar 09

Bigs of the Year 2023

By In The News, Match Stories

Our Matches of the Year are chosen annually by our Program staff. After a thorough selection process, we are proud to announce:

BIG & LITTLE SISTERS OF THE YEAR

Big Sister Deen and Little Sister Ariyanah

Big Sister Deen and Little Sister Ariyanah have been matched for 3 years in the community-based program. They enjoy the simple things like sharing a meal, watching a movie, or completing a craft, just as long as they’re together they have a wonderful time. Ariyanah’s self-confidence has exploded since being matched with Deen. Once a quiet, yet friendly, little girl, Ariyanah is now an outspoken advocate for herself and others. Ariyanah is quick to help out at home and at school, setting the example for her younger siblings and peers. Ariyanah approaches others to strike up conversations and passes out compliments regularly. Her high emotional intelligence and increased self-confidence allow Ariyanah to spread even more positivity to those around her. Ariyanah’s mom, Anita, credits her blossoming sense of self to having a gentle and encouraging Big Sister like Deen. Ariyanah says Deen is a great person who helps her to be a great kid. Ariyanah is inspired by Deen’s travel stories and Deen encourages her to work hard and dream big so she can achieve her goals — one of Ariyanah’s current goals is to keep her status as one of the Top 5 students in her grade academically. Deen is truly changing Ariyanah’s self-perspective and outlook on life.

 

BIG & LITTLE BROTHERS OF THE YEAR

Big Brother Brian and Little Brother Angel

Big Brother Brian and Little Brother Angel have been matched since 2014. Over the course of their near-decade-long Match, they have experienced all sorts of activities together like boating, fishing, visiting SkyZone trampoline park, volunteering at Metropolitan ministries, and exploring new places to eat. The duo fully engages in all of the perks provided by the agency such as tickets to the Monster Jam monster truck rally, Bucs & Rowdies games, and of course Bowl For Kids Sake. Brian partnered with Angel’s mom, Maryli, in finding community resources available to them, like free dental care. Brian helped his Little Brother prepare his resume and hone his interview skills – resulting in Angel landing a position that he has held for three years now. Angel has taught Brian about his Mexican culture and how to celebrate and appreciate their diversity. Though he is a junior in high school – with responsibilities as a shift lead at his job – he still makes outings with his Big a priority; they intend to stay in touch forever. Angel is grateful for his Big and recommends every child have a chance to get a Big.

Feb 22

Chris Letsos Named New Agency CEO

By In The News

We are proud to introduce Chris Letsos as our new agency CEO at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay. Chris was selected given his strong nonprofit leadership experience. Chris served as the President & CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay, where he worked for 14 years in progressive leadership roles. Most recently, Chris served as the Florida Department of Children & Families Family Wellbeing Director. Chris believes in the power of mentorship and is excited about the opportunity to lead our Agency in support of our essential mission. Welcome, Chris!

The Tampa Bay Times interviewed Chris. Read the article here.

 

Feb 13

Winners Announced For Deloitte Scholarships to Fund STEM Students in Tampa

By In The News

Update! The recipients of the BBBSA Youth Equity and Empowerment Scholarship with support from the Deloitte Foundation have been announced! The scholarship program will provide young people with financial support for college and credentialing programs through the awarding of 60 scholarships that will total $350,000 nationally. The winning Littles in our local area are:

Brianna B.
Mathew B.
Kenny D.
Jia W.

Littles in a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program with career interests in accounting, finance, economics, engineering, computer engineering, computer science, information systems, technology, data science, data analytics, and math were eligible. The Deloitte Foundation Scholarships were available to youth living or planning to attend a higher learning institute in 13 areas, including right here in Tampa, FL! Other regions were: 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.

“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, of the 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.”

BIG thanks to the Deloitte Foundation and our National office for making this opportunity possible.

 

 

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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 Deloitte 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.

Dec 17

Macy’s Launches Multi-Year Partnership to Empower Youth Through Mentorship

By In The News, Match Events

Thank you, Macy’s, for the VIP shopping experience for more than 120 of our Littles this holiday season! Our kids were treated to this private shopping session at multiple Macy’s locations throughout Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties at Brandon Town Center, Countryside Mall,  Tyrone Square Mall, Westshore Mall, and Wiregrass Mall.

After our Matches enjoyed breakfast (also provided by Macy’s), our Littles opened their curated gift bags, each one featuring a $50 Macy’s gift card inside! Then everyone got to shopping for the perfect presents, mailing their letters to Santa, and wrapping everything up with a bow!

We are honored to partner with Macy’s as part of their Mission Every One community empowerment initiative. You can still help spread the cheer: Until Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 2022, Macy’s shoppers have the option of donating online at macys.com, or rounding up in-store purchases.  “Mission Every One helps Macy’s direct our social impact work to the causes and communities that help shape a brighter future for all, but most importantly for young people,” said Bobby Amirshahi, senior vice president of Macy’s, Inc. Corporate Communications and head of Macy’s community and social impact work.

Read more about the Macy’s partnership with our National office, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

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.

 

Oct 13

Deloitte Scholarships to Fund STEM Students in Tampa

By In The News

Our National office recently announced the creation of 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 that will total $350,000 nationally.

Littles with Big Brothers Big Sisters that are current high school seniors year will be eligible to receive scholarships through the program. The scholarships are for students 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 attend school in 13 markets, including right here in Tampa, FL: 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

“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.”

“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.”

 

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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.

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