Big News
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.
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.
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.
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.