Big News
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.
Supporter Spotlight: Mark Lorenzoni
We are thrilled to shine this month’s Support Spotlight on Mark Lorenzoni, former BBBS Board Chair and a devoted supporter. For Mark, supporting BBBS is a family affair, and we are proud to call the entire Lorenzoni family our friends.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge Announces Director of Philanthropy
Born and raised in Norfolk, VA, Sarah received her BA in Political Science from then Virginia Wesleyan College, now University. While getting her degree, she also started her now 30+ year career in the nonprofit sector, first as a work study and then a parttime staffer in the Office for Development and PR. As part of small team full of mentors ready to help her grow and explore the field, Sarah was introduced to alumni and donor relations, capital campaigns, data management, event planning, grant writing, public relations, strategic planning, and so much more.
National Volunteer Week Spotlight: Celebrating Big Sister Theresa and Little Sister Liz
In celebration of National Volunteer Week, we're shining a spotlight on one of our most heartwarming matches at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge: Big Sister Theresa and her Little Sister Liz. Since 2017, Theresa and Liz have shared countless memorable experiences, from leisurely outings to bookstores like Barnes & Noble to enjoyable dinners together. This week, we honor Theresa's dedication as a Big Sister and the significant impact she has made on Liz’s life.
National Volunteer Week 2024
This week, April 21-27, 2024, marks National Volunteer Week, a time dedicated to recognizing the selfless contributions of volunteers across the country. At Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Blue Ridge, we are taking this opportunity to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our Bigs and Board Members whose unwavering dedication and volunteer service are crucial to our mission.