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Aug 30
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Macy’s Launches Multi-Year Partnership to Empower Youth Through Mentorship

By In The News

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
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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.

Sep 10
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BID NOW!

By Fundraising Events, In The News

BIDDING IS CLOSED! Thank you for your generosity! The Art of Helping Children’s silent auction is now live! Click here to view items and bid from the heart! We kindly recommend creating your user profile before making your selections. No need to be present to win! Happy bidding!

Aug 09
Love1

Vote BBBBSTB and Donate While Dining

By Fundraising Events, In The News

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay is excited to be a part of the 25th Annual Columbia Restaurant Community Harvest Program. Simply select Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay on the ballot that arrives with your check.

Through this program, The Columbia donates 5 percent of all guests’ September lunch and dinner checks to the charitable organizations chosen by their customers. Just select Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay on the form that is provided with your check, and the restaurant will set aside 5% of your total bill. The Columbia Community Harvest takes place in all of the Columbia locations including Ybor City in the historic district of Tampa, St. Armands Circle in Sarasota, St. Augustine, Sand Key on Clearwater Beach, Central Florida’s Town of Celebration, the Columbia Cafe on the Riverwalk in Downtown Tampa at the Tampa Bay History Center and the Columbia Restaurant Cafe at Tampa International Airport. All Columbia locations are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. For more information, see www.ColumbiaRestaurant.com

Over the past 21 years, the Columbia Restaurant Community Harvest has donated more than $2.5 million to non-profit organizations throughout Florida.

The original Columbia Restaurant was founded in Tampa’s Historic Ybor City in 1905 by Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez, Sr., and has now expanded throughout the area with the addition of Columbia locations at St. Armands Circle in Sarasota, the Historic District in St. Augustine, Sand Key on Clearwater Beach, Celebration in central Florida, and the Columbia Cafe on the Riverwalk in Tampa and the Columbia Restaurant Cafe at Tampa International Airport.

Follow on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Please see www.ColumbiaRestaurant.com for more information

Jun 21
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Agency Honored with 2021 Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Quality Award

By In The News

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay Honored with 2021 Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Quality Award

The agency is recognized for outstanding team leadership in providing 1-to-1 mentoring programming for local youth

Tampa, FL June 21, 2022 – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay has been recognized as a 2022 Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) Quality Award Winner. Every year, BBBS agencies are recognized by BBBSA Nationwide Leadership Council, made up of local Big Brothers Big Sisters agency leaders and board members, for excellence in the organization’s signature 1-to-1 youth mentoring program. Out of approximately 230 Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies across the country, BBBS of Tampa Bay is one of 53 organizations to receive this top honor.

“Thanks to everyone who contributed to this great achievement, which is all about our focus on quality at our agency at every turn,” said Stephen Koch, president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay. “This is really impressive, and I hope everyone recognizes this accomplishment!”

For over 100 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters has been dedicated to advancing equity, impact, and growth across the organization, making a lasting impact on the lives of young people. Today, the organization creates and supports one-to-one mentoring relationships helping build self-confidence and emotional well-being, and empowering young people on a path to graduate with a plan for their futures and a mentor whose impact can last a lifetime.

“Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies across the country are finding innovative ways to serve young people and strengthen communities,” said BBBSA President and CEO Artis Stevens. “We congratulate these agencies for leading the way in transforming mentorship for our communities, and most importantly, our young people.”

The Quality Award Winners will be formally recognized at the 2022 Big Brothers Big Sisters “Bigger Together” National Conference, held June 19 through June 22 in Indianapolis.

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