Big News
Manifest Quest Success
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.
From the Pandemic to Today: Big Brother Jamel, Little Brother Logan, and Aunt Kathy Journeying Together
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.
Getting to Know Big Sister Haritha, Little Sister Ariyah, and Mom Shicora
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.
Getting to Know Big Sister Hogan, Little Sister Chloe, and Mother Tyqunia
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.
In My Own Words by Marc Paulo Guzman
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.
Getting to Know Big Brother Alan, Little Brother Justyn, and Mom Minnie
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.
Getting to Know Big Sister Khadra, Little Sister Findia, and Mother Frances
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.
Big Hearts, Big Family, Big Impacts
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.
Budget-Friendly Match Activity: Thrifting with Your Little
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.
Q & A with Little Sister Justyce and Big Sister Cathy
Meet Big Sister Cathy and Little Sister Justyce. Their Match has grown stronger since the very first time they met. What started with practicing multiplication and reading has turned into a friendship filled with fun, learning, and new experiences. They’ve celebrated birthdays, cooked meals together, and tried creative projects. This past summer, they participated in the Summer Adventure Quest where they volunteered at the Albemarle County Fair. It has been wonderful to see this Match grow and create lasting memories.
Q&A with Big Brother Frank and Little Brother Jax
We’re excited to introduce one of our newest matches—Big Brother Frank and Little Brother Jax! Though they were just recently matched, these two have already built an incredible connection. Frank, a longtime former board member, has supported our mission for years, and it’s inspiring to see him now stepping into this new role as a mentor. We can’t wait for you to hear more about their journey so far. Read on for a Q&A with Frank and Jax!
Match Story: Linda & Saliha
A few years into retirement, Linda decided to become a Big Sister. She had always enjoyed working with young people and was looking for a meaningful way to give back to the community while empowering a local youth – and she has certainly done just that! Linda and Saliha embark on a variety of adventures each month. Together, they regularly participate in many of our program offerings, including Big Benefits and the Summer Adventure Quest.
Big & Little, Real Talk: Q&A with Alexys and Ziah
Alexys and Ziah were matched in 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic—proving that even in uncertain times, connection and mentorship can thrive. What began as virtual meetings soon grew into one of our strongest matches, built on trust, shared experiences, and a deep commitment to showing up for one another. Over the past five years, Alexys has been a consistent and inspiring presence in Ziah’s life, helping her see her own strength and potential. Their story is a powerful example of the lasting impact a caring adult can have, and how BBBS relationships often grow into lifelong friendships.
Charlottesville Summer Camp Guide 2025: Explore, Learn, Thrive!
Summer is just around the corner, and Charlottesville, Virginia, is brimming with amazing opportunities for kids and teens to learn, grow, and have fun. Whether your child is into sports, arts, academics, or outdoor adventures, there’s a camp that fits their interests. At BBBS of the Central Blue Ridge, we’ve handpicked the best local summer camps to make it easy for you to find the perfect match. Get ready for a summer full of discovery, excitement, and lasting memories!
Let’s Go Fishing!
Fishing season is upon us and the local area is filled with beautiful places to visit – for Bigs and Littles to enjoy this activity near the water.
A Year of Friendship, Growth, and Cheeseburgers: Melanie & Lianna’s Inspiring Match
Melanie and Lianna have been matched in our community-based program for a year now—and what a wonderful year it’s been! Their match recently hit the one-year milestone, and the bond they’ve built is something truly special.
Annual Spring Hike at Sherando Lake
Despite the chilly weather, our matches had a great time on a 1.5-mile hike around Sherando Lake, led by our amazing friends at the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club! Bundled up and full of energy, everyone enjoyed the crisp air, scenic views, and time spent connecting in nature. Big thanks to PATC for guiding such a memorable adventure!
Mentorship in Action: Alan and Justyn’s Journey
Big Brother Alan and Little Brother Justyn's story is a powerful example of mentorship at its best. From their first nervous encounter to sharing exciting experiences like running races and trying Taekwondo, their journey has been all about growth, support, and building a meaningful friendship. Through their time together, they've witnessed the profound impact a mentor can have on a child’s life. Learn more about their inspiring journey in this Q&A.
Match Activity Ideas: Let’s Get Creative in 2025!
As our BBBS matches look toward this shiny new year of 2025, our staff is here to support you! Maybe your Little is into making things? Building models, arts and crafts or other hands-on activities.
Exploring Bright Futures: A Little Sister’s Journey to Virginia Tech and Beyond
For Little Sister Alaja, the future's looking bright! A high school junior with a passion for architecture, Alaja has spent the past year diving deep into her dream of becoming an architect. With her Big Sister Erin by her side, Alaja has been exploring college campuses to find the perfect fit for her goals. Together, they recently visited Virginia Tech to tour the campus and its renowned architecture school.