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Community Partners Help Equip Littles for a Successful School Year

By July 27, 2026Match Stories

As a new school year approaches, children across our community are preparing to head back to the classroom with fresh opportunities to learn, grow, and dream BIG. Thanks to the incredible generosity of The Baldwin Group, Macy’s, Progressive,  and David Weekley Homes, many of the Littles in our programs will start the year with the supplies they need to succeed. 

Together, these dedicated community partners donated backpacks filled with essential school supplies, helping ensure our youth are equipped and confident as they begin the school year.  

Cathryn Yanoski, from the Baldwin Group shares, “Supporting organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay reflects our commitment to strengthening the communities where we live and work. We are grateful for the opportunity to help provide students with the resources they need to start the school year prepared and to remind them that an entire community is cheering them on.”  

At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, we know that success starts with opportunity. While our professionally supported mentoring relationships empower young people to reach their full potential year-round, having the basic tools needed for school helps set the stage for academic success and builds confidence from the very first day of class. 

“We are incredibly grateful to our friends at The Baldwin Group, Macy’s, Progressive , and David Weekley Homes for investing in our youth,” said Robyn Ostrem, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay. “Research shows that young people with mentors are more likely to stay engaged in school, graduate, and pursue higher education. Pairing the support of a caring Big Brother or Big Sister with the school supplies children need to start the school year prepared helps build the confidence, stability, and sense of belonging that allow them to thrive in the classroom and beyond.” 

Every stuffed backpack, every donation made, and every act of kindness reminds our Littles that they are supported by people who believe in their future. 

To everyone at The Baldwin Group, Macy’s, Progresive,  and David Weekley Homes, thank you for helping our Littles walk into the new school year prepared, confident, and ready to achieve great things. Your generosity is making a lasting impact, and we are grateful to have partners who share our commitment to empowering the next generation of future leaders!  

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