On January 23, 2025, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona hosted a memorable night at the BIG EVENT, Celebrating mentorship and honoring the selfless volunteers who make a lasting impact in the lives of children. The evening, emceed by Brian Wood of MARS Coaching, was a heartfelt celebration of mentorship and community.
Among the highlights were the awards presented to outstanding individuals and teams:
- Big Brother of the Year: Jamal Galloway, whose unwavering support for his Little has been a lifeline.
- Big Sister of the Year: Michele Mitchell, who has been a pillar of strength as a Big Sister creating memories together and continuing to give back to the organization with mental health initiatives. Ashley Doyle, Emily Salazar and ED Stokes were also celebrated for their leadership and compassion in supporting BS Michele
- Site-Based Big of the Year: Dennay King, recognized for her dedication and impactful mentorship.
- Couple Match of the Year: Matt Manoogian & Natalie Emery, whose ongoing commitment to their Littles exemplifies the power of long-term, selfless mentorship.
- Linda Searfoss Award: Jocelyn Bogar, whose exceptional work ethic and commitment to the team have made a huge difference .
- Barry Starr Award: Renewal By Anderson ; honored for their extraordinary partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters, providing invaluable support to the organization’s mission and helping to create brighter futures for young people in the community.
The evening was a beautiful reflection of the power of mentorship, celebrating mentorship and showcasing the deep, lasting connections between Bigs and Littles. The community came together to celebrate the impact of our volunteers, as they continue to shape a brighter future for the next generation.
Thank you to all our Bigs and supporters – your dedication and generosity inspire us every day, and together, we will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the next generation!
