Big Brothers Big Sisters Honors Volunteer “Bigs” of the Year at Match Appreciation Event

More than 350 “Bigs” & “Littles” Enjoyed a Rock Star Experience at Mahaffey Theater 

  Largo, FL (October 7, 2010)- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pinellas County honored volunteers and children served with an annual Match Appreciation party at Mahaffey Theater.  The evening’s program recognized volunteers and children served, volunteers of the year, and event sponsors.  Attendees enjoyed a “Rock N Roll Star Experience” theme including limousines, red carpet, volunteer paparazzi and star themed activities.  

  Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pinellas, Citrus, and Hernando Counties serves an average of 1,500 children a year.  While each volunteer “Big” contributes something amazing to the program, the agency highlights a select few volunteers that have made a significant impact on their “Little”.  Volunteers from both the Community Based Program and School Based Program were recognized by the agency.  Community Based volunteers enjoy a one-to-one friendship with a child a few hours a month and enjoy activities in the community.  School Based volunteers also enjoy a one-to-one friendship with a child but the place and time are usually set in a school setting. 

  “Positive relationships with caring adults can have a lasting impact on a child’s life,” said Susan Rolston, Chief Executive Officer.  “We are overwhelmed by the dedication and support of our volunteers who are dedicated to making a lasting impact in the lives of children.  It was especially nice to honor those volunteers who have made an astounding difference in the program.”  

  2010 “Bigs” of the Year:  

  Community Based Big Brother of the Year, George Root III, has been matched with his “Little” since 2007.  As a former student at Stetson Law, George involved his “Little” in on-campus activities and volunteer recruitment for Big Brothers Big Sisters.  George’s consistency and perseverance have truly made a long-term impact for his “Little” and has helped to guide him in decision making. 

  Community Based Big Sister of the Year, Jane Kucin, truly understands the potential of her “Little Sister”.  Jane has consistently encouraged and praised her “Little” during times of self doubt.  This encouragement has enhanced her school work, friendships, and home life. 

  School Based Big Brother of the Year, Mark Dawson, has been a consistent face for his “Little” for the past two years.  Mark’s employer, Wachovia Bank, a Wells Fargo Company, is a Corporate, School Based Partner for the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.  Once a week, during his lunch hour, Mark visits with his Little at a nearby school.  Mark’s “Little” surprised him at the event and even had a special letter to read him. 

  School Based Big Sister of the Year, Jennifer Waggoner, has been known to go above and beyond to brighten the day of her “Little”.  Jennifer arrives with her arms full of fun things to enjoy with her “Little” each week to enrich their match experience. 

  High School, School Based Big of the Year, Courtney Benter, a high school student, has been matched with her “Little Sister” for more than a year who attends Chi Chi Rodriguez Academy.  The pair enjoy a variety of outdoor activities together, including golf.  Courtney has taught her “Little” the importance of school performance and friendship. 

  Event sponsors include:  The Gagnon Family Foundation, Outback Steakhouse, Progress Energy Center for the Arts-Mahaffey Theater, Ambassador Limousine and Sedan, Pepsi, and Best Buy.  

  About Big Brothers Big Sisters serving Pinellas, Hernando & Citrus Counties 
Big Brothers Big Sisters helps vulnerable children beat the odds.  The organization depends on donations to help recruit volunteers and reach more children.  Funding is used to conduct background checks on volunteers to ensure child safety; and provide ongoing support for children, families and volunteers to build and sustain long-lasting relationships.  Big Brothers Big Sisters is proven to improve children’s odds for succeeding in school, behaving nonviolently, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and breaking negative cycles.  Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pinellas County serves Pinellas, Hernando, and Citrus Counties. For more information, visit www.bbbspc.org.

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