Big News
Challenge Accepted: Generous Matching Gift Opportunity Helps Leverage Giving to BBBSCBR
For Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge, dedicated volunteers, generous donors, committed advocates, and an enthusiastic network of partners and supporters are key to our ability to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.
Ulta Beauty and Big Brothers Big Sisters
Since 2016, the Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation (UBCF) has been on a mission to make a difference in the communities where they live and work, particularly by empowering the well-being of women and teens. In 2023, UBCF expanded its partnership commitment with Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) from a local agency partnership with BBBS of Metropolitan Chicago to the national level, expanding its investment broadly after seeing the value of the impact BBBS makes in the communities it serves.
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!
With Every Step: Thank You, Charlottesville Track Club and Charlottesville Ten Miler Team
The connections between the race and the Club with BBBSCR run deep, from leadership volunteers (yes you, Mark Lorenzoni and Diane Rosin Okusa) to assistance with hosting annual run/walk events, and more. BBBSCR was proud to be named a secondary beneficiary of the 50th running of the Charlottesville Ten Miler, contested on March 22.
Gratitude for a New Partner: Buffalo Wild Wings
We are grateful to the Buffalo Wilds Wings Foundation for their grant of $5,000. Nathan Frazier, General Manager/Franchise Learning Administrator for the Charlottesville and Culpeper restaurants, nominated Big Brothers Big Sister for support from the Foundation.
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.
The Value of Partnerships
Active collaboration with local schools, organizations, youth-serving entities, and businesses enhances Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge’s ability to serve area children and collectively leverage community impacts and resources. These strategic partnerships help fill service gaps effectively, ensuring our programming complements rather than overlaps with existing initiatives, making BBBSCBR a unique and essential contributor to our community's youth development landscape.
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.
Support BBBSCBR and the Charlottesville Ten Miler!
BBBSCBR is excited to be a secondary beneficiary of the 50th running of the Charlottesville Ten Miler on Saturday, March 22! The race is a community tradition that has benefited many nonprofits over the years, including us. In turn, we are spreading the word about registration and plan to support the runners on race day.
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.
Magic on the Mall
Winter in Charlottesville is a season full of excitement, community spirit, and festive charm—all happening right on the Cville Downtown Mall! To help you make the most of this magical time, we’ve gathered a list of FREE events happening at the Downtown Mall, perfect for Bigs, Littles, and families alike. Wishing you all a warm and joyful season—happy holidays!
The Big Serve Makes a Big Impact
On October 19, BBBS hosted its inaugural pickleball tournament – The Big Serve. The morning started off chilly, but sunshine and the enthusiasm of 19 teams and a cadre of volunteers quickly warmed things up. The competition was friendly and fun with groupings for Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced teams.
Serving Up Success: Meet the BBBS Matches Who Competed in The Big Serve
On October 19, 2024 at Darden Towe Park, we held our inaugural pickleball tournament, The Big Serve. Several of our matches came together for a day of fun and friendly competition.
Celebrating One Year of Mentorship: Big Sister Shevya & Little Sister Azaria’s Pottery Adventure!
Over the past year, they’ve shared many fun experiences together, but their recent outing to Lazy Daisy Ceramics in Charlottesville stands out as a special one. This creative adventure, painting pottery, brought smiles and lasting memories for both Shevya and Azaria.
BBBS Fall Hike 2024: A Day of Nature and Community
We had an incredible time during the BBBS Fall Hike on the Frazier Discovery Trail! A huge thank you to Ranger Whitney for being our guide and sharing fascinating insights into the natural wonders we encountered along the way.
Be a Part of the Action – Join Us for The Big Serve
Learn about the different ways to get involved with The Big Serve. Join the tournament, volunteer, donate equipment or sponsor a match are just some of the ways you can be part of TBS.
Serving Up Success with The Big Serve
On October 19, BBBS will host its inaugural pickleball tournament – The Big Serve. Based on feedback from our Board of Directors, Matches, and community interest, BBBS opted to sunset the run/walk and Fall Fair events in favor of this fresh, new endeavor.
Playing Ball and Changing Lives - Match Spotlight: Big Brother Andrew and Little Brother Egypt
Egypt and Andrew’s story began one year ago, August 2023. Since then, they have formed a remarkable bond. Egypt's mother has noticed significant positive changes.