2026 Big Futures Celebration

In the Theater at The Nevada Museum of Art the excitement was real. It felt like a true milestone. A celebration of growth, consistency, and the powerful impact of mentorship in action. 

Big Futures concluded its 10-session experience created to prepare the next generation for life after graduation. Through guidance, real-world exposure, and meaningful conversations, Littles were encouraged to actively pursue one of the Three E’s: Enrollment in college, Enlistment in the military, or Employment in a living-wage career. Each session was designed to open doors, expand perspectives, and remind every Little that their future is full of possibility. 

And this celebration was about honoring that journey.

Enrollment

When our Big Futures Class visited the campuses of The University of Nevada, Reno, and Truckee Meadows Community College, they were stepping into a space where they could begin to see themselves belonging. 

Throughout the visit, they explored what higher education can truly offer. From learning about different majors and the enrollment process to understanding campus resources, student organizations, and support systems, Littles gained a clearer picture of how college can shape their future. They asked questions about the application process, financial aid, and what it takes to succeed once they get there.

Through these personalized tours and hearing real stories of student life, this session of Big Futures helped break down barriers and replace uncertainty with direction. Curiosity turned into confidence. Possibility turned into a plan. 

Employment

Through hands-on experiences, Littles explored what it means to step into the workforce with confidence.

At Greater Nevada Field, home of the Reno Aces, Matches went behind the scenes to explore the inner workings of the sports and athletics industry. They saw firsthand how teamwork, meticulous preparation, and leadership converge to operate a massive stadium on game day. A standout memory for the group was stepping onto the field to talk with the grounds and maintenance crew, gaining a true appreciation for the behind-the-scenes hustle.

At Corwin Ford Reno, the focus shifted to financial responsibility and independence. This session focused on the ins and outs of car ownership, how to navigate major life milestones, and even a peek under the hood of some vehicles. This tour sparked immediate, real-world opportunities: one participant landed a job-shadowing experience, while another Little committed to a summer internship in administration.

Finally, a trip to Shortie’s Candles with She Means Business offered an interactive look into entrepreneurship and goal setting. Participants even got to craft their own candles. This session was the overwhelming crowd favorite, leaving both Bigs and Littles deeply impressed by what it takes to start, operate, and scale a business. In fact, some argued that our “Three E’s” should officially welcome a fourth: Entrepreneurship.

These experiences were pivotal opportunities that built real-world confidence, expanding what our Littles thought was possible in any career field.

Enlistment 

Big Futures also created intentional space for Littles to explore Enlistment as a meaningful path forward.

Through guided conversations and exposure to real experiences, our youth began to understand what service truly represents—not just a career, but a commitment to something bigger than themselves. They explored the different branches of the military, discovering how the structure, discipline, and deep sense of purpose offer a gateway to long-term opportunity, personal growth, and resilience.

These sessions went far beyond surface-level information. At our shared table, Littles were encouraged to engage, ask honest questions, and challenge their own assumptions. One Big shared, “I was asking questions, knowing my Little wanted to pursue Enlistment, but he kept telling me the answers before the speakers could. He was able to explain what he knew and dig much deeper into the process than before.”

2026 Big Futures: Reflection

By the end of the program, the investment our youth made was clear. While Littles were recognized for their consistency and earned tools to support their next steps, what they gained goes far deeper.

• Confidence to actively plan for their own future.
• Clarity about the pathways available to them post-graduation.
• Skills that will act as an anchor for every step they take.

Most importantly, these sessions helped ignite the belief they already have in themselves. This celebration was about honoring the potential within every Little and the professional stewardship it takes to grow into it.

At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada, we know that it takes little to be BIG. Through Big Futures, these Littles are stepping forward as the next generation of leaders, ready to build a future they believe in.

Thank you

As many know, it takes a supportive village to make a high-impact program like this a reality. From the immersive tours with the Reno Aces, Shorties Candles, and Corwin Ford, to the classroom sessions with the Boosted Diplomas, the success of this program was made possible by the dedicated individuals who shared their stories and opened doors to the many pathways of life.

A special thank you to The Office of Senator Catherine Cortez Masto and Senator Jacky Rosen, who honored each of our participants with Senate Certificates, and to Bekah Kessler, Board Member, who dedicated her sabbatical to building out this incredible curriculum. And of course, this wouldn’t be possible without the professional stewardship of the entire staff at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada, especially our very own Carrie Acosta, Special Programs Coordinator.

By coming together, these partners have provided a steady anchor for our youth, empowering them to pursue a BIG future.

If you are interested in joining our shared table and supporting the 2027 Big Futures Program, please reach out to Carrie Acosta.