Match Stories

One of the most powerful aspects of mentoring is that the relationship does not always end when the program does. In the best cases, it evolves into something lasting, something that continues to shape lives for years to come. That is exactly what happened with Mike and his Little, DJ.

Mike, now the CEO of Habitat for Humanity Gulfside, is no stranger to the nonprofit world or the transformational power of investing in others. Throughout his career, he has dedicated himself to strengthening communities and creating opportunities for families to thrive. Long before his current leadership role, Mike was making an impact in a more personal way, one relationship at a time.

He and DJ were first matched in 2009, when DJ was just nine years old and in the fourth grade. At the time, DJ and his two siblings were being raised by their grandparents, and having a consistent, supportive adult in his life meant everything. Mike quickly became that person.

Their bond grew through simple, meaningful moments, connecting over sports, attending games, and even helping coaches during practices. It was not about grand gestures. It was about showing up. Those shared experiences created a foundation of trust, stability, and encouragement that would carry them forward.

“DJ did relatively well in school and progressed through grades well,” Mike recalls. “When he got to high school, his mom was granted custody and he moved to Illinois, which officially ended our match.” But for Mike and DJ, that was not the end of their story. It was simply a new chapter.

They stayed connected over the years, continuing to support one another through life’s milestones and challenges. When DJ graduated high school in 2019, Mike was there cheering him on, just as he had always been.

Today, DJ is 25 years old and thriving back in Florida as a warehouse supervisor at Pinch-A-Penny. While life keeps them both busy and their time together is less frequent, their connection remains unchanged. Every conversation feels familiar and picks up right where it left off.

Mike reflects on their journey simply. “I’m so proud of him.”

For Mike, mentoring was not just an act of service. It was a reflection of the values that have guided his career, showing up, investing in people, and believing in their potential. His experience with DJ reinforces what he sees every day in his professional life. When you give someone consistent support and opportunity, the impact can be truly transformational.

Their story is a powerful reminder that mentorship is not confined to a set number of years. It is about building relationships that endure, rooted in trust, care, and a shared belief in what is possible.

Stories like Mike and DJ’s remind us why mentorship matters. Sometimes, the true impact reveals itself years later, in a graduation celebration, a career milestone, or simply in knowing that someone will always be in your corner cheering you on.

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

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

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.

A Bond Beyond Words: Alyssa & Bianca’s Story

This Hispanic Heritage Month, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay is honored to share the story of Alyssa and Bianca, a Big Sister and Little Sister whose connection grew stronger through trust, love, and their shared language.

When Alyssa first considered becoming a Big Sister, she worried she didn’t have enough time. But something told her to make space. “It’s been more rewarding than I ever expected,” she says. “I’ve received so much more than I’ve given, especially love.”

Her Little Sister, Bianca, couldn’t agree more. “I’m fully grateful,” she shares. “She’s someone I can trust, my go-to for advice.”

The two were first matched when Bianca was just six years old. Both shy by nature, they discovered comfort in speaking Spanish with each other and quickly realized how much they had in common. Alyssa recalls one of the early moments that defined their bond: helping Bianca find the courage to step onto a stage, despite her shyness. “I had to help myself in order to help her,” Alyssa explains. “We’re mirrors of each other.”

Now 17, Bianca dreams about her future. After years of changing her mind about college and careers, she has set her sights on the military, hoping to one day serve as a guidance counselor. Through every step, Alyssa has been there to encourage her.

“Where would I be without her?” Bianca wonders. “I’ll forever cherish the memories. It’s been a rollercoaster of fun since I was six years old.”

Alyssa says she found something she didn’t even know she was missing: “The world needs more people willing to give their hearts and their time. The bare minimum to be a Big is having love to give, and that’s all you need.”

Their story is also a reminder of how important accessibility is. When Alyssa joined, BBBS staff explained the program in Spanish, making her feel welcome and confident. Today, she encourages others, including her own husband, to get involved. “She will always be my Little,” Alyssa says with a smile.

For both Alyssa and Bianca, what began as a school-based match has grown into a lifelong friendship. It is proof that mentorship not only changes lives, it creates family.

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!

Big Sister Cheryl & Little Sister Destynee have been matched in our Community-based program since December 2016. They have grown close to each other over the duration of their match, and they have been a consistent support for each other through life’s transitions and trying times during the pandemic. Destynee views Cheryl as an important person in her life, and a safe person for her to speak to and spend time with. Cheryl describes Destynee as a social butterfly who likes to cheer up those around her!

They both enjoy bird watching and eating at IHOP and Denny’s. Destynee’s reading skills have improved; Cheryl noticed Destynee was able to read and play the activity games on IHOP’s children’s menu. Further strengthening Destynee’s reading skills, she started reading more books after realizing she could get a prize at the library for every book she reads. When Destynee and Cheryl cannot see each other in person, they video chat with one another. Destynee often uses that time to practice her YouTube influencer skills and shows Cheryl her evening routine activities.

Cheryl stays engaged with our agency and goes above and beyond in advocating for BBBS with other potential volunteers. Cheryl consistently and intentionally shows up for Destynee; their match is a great example of how mentoring can positively impact a young person’s life.