(Phoenix, AZ) – More than 100 volunteers, board members, staff, and alumni gathered on January 22, 2026, to celebrate the power of mentorship at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona’s annual Big Event, held in recognition of National Mentoring Month. The evening honored the dedicated volunteers whose one-to-one mentoring relationships are helping shape brighter futures for youth across the community.
The time, encouragement, and guidance that Bigs provide play a critical role in helping young people navigate life’s challenges, discover their strengths, and reach their full potential.
Kurt and DeAnna Mangum II emceed the evening, bringing together celebration, connection, and recognition of the incredible dedication shown in support of the BBBSAZ mission.
Barry Starr Award
Each year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona honors an individual whose contributions rise above the rest with the Barry Starr Award, named for the founding Director of Valley Big Brothers. Barry Starr, a former police and probation officer, served as Director from 1976 to 1983 and later pursued a career in public service, including roles on the Phoenix City Council and as Vice Mayor of Phoenix. He was known for his kindness, compassion, and dedication to the community.
This year, the award was presented to Leah Luther, a parent of a Little in the program. Leah has been an active member of the Parent Advisory Council, supported recruitment of Bigs and Littles, and served on the Big Night Out Gala Committee. Through her leadership and advocacy, she has amplified the impact of mentorship in her family and the broader community.
Big Heart Award
The Big Heart Award honors companies whose partnership and support significantly advance the mission of BBBSAZ. This year, the award was presented to Amazon for their exceptional commitment to empowering youth through mentorship.
Thanks to the leadership of Nick Araujo and Lacey Rodriguez, BBBSAZ hosted its first 5K run since the early 1980s, with more than 550 participants at State Farm Stadium. Amazon fully funded the event, and employees volunteered to make it a success. The company also contributed more than $15,000 through a volunteer-led car wash, bringing their total support since 2012 to nearly $70,000. Amazon’s dedication to mentorship and community engagement exemplifies the spirit of the Big Heart Award.
Linda Searfoss Award
Big Brothers Big Sisters would not be the agency it is today without the hard work of its incredible staff. The Linda Searfoss Award celebrates an individual staff member who has made exceptional contributions to the agency’s success. The award is named after Linda Searfoss, who served as Executive Director of Big Sisters of Arizona beginning in 1972 and later Valley Big Brothers Big Sisters after the organizations merged in 1986. Under her 31 years of leadership, the agency grew to become one of the largest in the country.
This year, Alma Albarran was recognized as the 2026 Linda Searfoss Award Winner for her outstanding contributions to the agency, including leadership in marketing, communications, and volunteer engagement.
Bigs of the Year
The most anticipated moment of the night was the announcement of the 2026 Bigs of the Year. Selected from more than 700 active volunteer mentors serving youth across Maricopa County, these honorees represent the very best of mentorship:
- Big Brother of the Year: Alex Smith
- Big Sister of the Year: Maria Cable
- Site-Based Big of the Year: Felicia Chiverton-Wren
These volunteers were chosen for their dedication, consistency, and the powerful impact they have made in the lives of their Littles. Research shows that young people with mentors are more likely to succeed academically, build strong relationships, and make positive life choices, while being less likely to engage in risky behaviors.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona also extends heartfelt thanks to Jade Palace Restaurant for their generous in-kind donation and catering support for the event. Their contribution helped create a welcoming and celebratory atmosphere as we honored our Bigs of the Year and valued community partners. Support from local businesses like Jade Palace plays an important role in making moments like this possible for our mentoring community.
“This event was a powerful reminder of the heart behind this work,” said Jared Byrd, Vice President of Programs at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona. “I’m incredibly grateful to the committee, staff, and volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, and to the Bigs who showed up and represented our mission so beautifully. Seeing the community come together in support truly highlighted the trust families place in us and the strength of the network surrounding this organization. As someone still new to the team, it was inspiring to witness that level of care, collaboration, and pride firsthand.”
ABOUT BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF CENTRAL ARIZONA
For more than 70 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona has operated under the belief that inherent in every child is the ability to succeed and thrive in life. As part of the nation’s largest donor- and volunteer-supported mentoring network, BBBSAZ creates and supports one-to-one mentoring relationships between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and youth (“Littles”), ages six through 18. These meaningful, professionally supported relationships have a direct and lasting impact on the lives of young people.
For more information, contact BBBSAZ at 602-264-BIGS or visit www.bbbsaz.org.
