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Created to give Matches fun, meaningful activities during what can be isolating winter months, the Manifest Quest encouraged Bigs and Littles to set a goal and embark on an activity quest. Through intentional planning and teamwork, Matches worked towards their goal and had a chance to win an awesome prize.
For Big Brother Jamel, Little Brother Logan, and Aunt Kathy, their Match journey began in July 2020 under some challenging circumstances – the COVID pandemic. Having shifted from all in-person interviews and trainings with Bigs, Littles, and families to Zoom sessions, Big Brothers Big Sisters got creative in working through these important processes, finding ways to host initial Match meetings, and keeping everyone engaged and safe.
While Big Sister Haritha, Little Sister Ariyah, and Mother Shicora met in-person for the first time in July 2025, you would never know that they are just eight months into their mentorship journey.
When Little Chloe first met her Big Sister, Hogan, she remembers taking pictures together at the BBBS office. What she did not know in that moment was just how special that meeting would become. Chloe says she felt like she got a surprise that day. Suddenly, she had a Big Sister who keeps her happy, makes her laugh, and is always fun to be around.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – Each January, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge (BBBSCBR) celebrates National Mentoring Month, recognizing the life changing impact of mentorship and the power of consistent, caring relationships. This year, the organization is honoring the impact of mentoring across the greater Charlottesville area while welcoming new leadership and uplifting a long-standing Match that reflects what is possible when young people are supported.
Jayson and I first met in 2015, when he was just six years old. I had been living in Charlottesville for a little over two years and was looking for a meaningful way to give back to the community. Big Brothers Big Sisters felt like the right fit, and I appreciated how intentional the matching process was — taking time to understand what I was hoping for in a Little Brother. Still, when the day came to meet Jayson, I was both excited and nervous. I wanted him to like me. I wanted us to connect.
From their first meeting at the BBBS office, Little Brother Justyn and his Big Brother Alan hit it off instantly, turning shared goals into unforgettable adventures like running a first 5K and mastering orienteering in the woods. Their friendship has sparked confidence, laughter, and new experiences for Justyn while giving his Big the joy of guiding a young person toward their dreams.
Big Sister Khadra and Little Sister Findia’s match is filled with warmth, laughter, and genuine connection. From their very first meeting, the two clicked naturally, sharing stories, new experiences, and a mutual love of learning and community. Over time, their bond has grown stronger—built on trust, encouragement, and shared joy. Together, they’ve created memories that highlight the heart of mentorship and the positive impact of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program.
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge, it is not unusual for us to have siblings—even twins—in the program. It is unique, however, for us to have three siblings matched at once. While meaningful for the family, it is not lost on us how meaningful it also is to our Bigs and our entire BBBSCBR community to have each child matched with a mentor who believes in them and wants to help nurture their inherent potential.
Thrifting is a great way to find unique items, save money, and shop more sustainably. It is also a low-cost activity you can do with your Little! Whether you're a complete beginner to thrifting or looking for ideas on how to thrift with your Little.