A Commitment to Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona (BBBSAZ), we are deeply committed to creating and cultivating a safe environment where every individual feels respected and valued. As we mark Hispanic Heritage Month, we proudly stand with the Hispanic and Latinx communities, reaffirming our commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
We are thrilled to celebrate the vibrant contributions of over 12,000 Latinx Littles and nearly 5,000 Latinx Bigs nationwide who are integral to our Big Brothers Big Sisters of America family. These numbers include 134 Latinx Bigs and 349 Latinx Littles that we serve right here in Central Arizona. Your steadfast dedication and commitment to our communities are truly inspiring, and we are grateful for your contributions each and every day.
At BBBS, J.E.D.I. (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) is not just a set of principles but the very essence of who we are. This month, as we honor Hispanic Heritage Month, we take a moment to reflect on and celebrate the rich cultures, resilience, and invaluable contributions of the Hispanic and Latinx communities that enhance the fabric of our nation. Here are two inspiring match stories we’d love to share.
Little Brother Andon and Big Brother Gabriel
Andon’s mother enrolled him into the BBBS program because she wanted him to have a positive male role model. Andon’s mother also wanted him to have a mentor with whom he could build a healthy friendship with. Gabriel became a Big Brother because he wanted to give back to the community by being a mentor for youth. In February 2017, Little Brother Andon and Big Brother Gabriel were matched. The pair enjoys participating in sports-related activities, like playing soccer and going to community football games. Little Brother Andon and Big Brother Gabriel also enjoy talking about their shared interests, which include sports, books, and school. The two always look forward to their next match outing together, and they share a common goal of discovering fun local community events.
Little Brother Michael and Big Brother Juan
Michael’s mother enrolled him into the BBBS program to gain a positive role model. She also wanted Michael to have a mentor who would introduce him to new activities out in the community. In January 2015, Little Brother Michael and Big Brother Juan were matched. Over the years, Juan and Michael have done so many different things togethering on their match outings. The pair enjoys going to sporting events, fishing, swimming, hiking, and going to skate parks. Juan has supported Michael by helping him with his academics over the years and has also taught Michael some life skills; Juan has been a consistent and positive influence. Michael and Juan have truly created a wonderful friendship throughout the years.
Thank you for being a vital part of our journey. Let’s continue to celebrate, support, and uplift each other as we move forward together.
Ready to take the next step and become a Big? Learn more on our website at www.bbbsaz.org/volunteer
#BeBig #HispanicHeritageMonth
