07-09-2026
NEWS:
IGNITE | July 08, 2026
BBBSNN Power and Promise Updates
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada, we believe that consistent advocacy requires consistent communication. These quarterly updates are a testament to our commitment to stewardship in our community. By sharing our data, challenges, and wins, we ensure that our stakeholders remain aligned with our mission. Your investment in our work allows us to defend the potential of our youth with precision and integrity.
As we moved through the second quarter of 2026, our focus remained on creating meaningful opportunities for connection, celebration, and growth. From recognizing student achievements to strengthening community partnerships and preparing major fundraising events, every initiative reflected our commitment to defending the potential of young people across Northern Nevada.
25th Anniversary Celebration
This year we are proud to celebrate 25 years of impact in Northern Nevada. On June 10, we hosted a celebration that brought together many of the sponsors, partners, and supporters who have helped make our mission possible over the years.
Guests had the opportunity to see firsthand the space where our work happens, learn more about the programs they support, and connect with the staff dedicated to defending the potential of local youth. The event also introduced opportunities for sponsors to leave a legacy through named rooms and spaces within our office, showcasing their continued commitment to mentorship and the young people we serve. If you or someone you know would like to be part of that impact, reach out to Nichole Schembre, Director of Development.
It was a meaningful celebration of community, partnership, and the collective impact that has shaped the past 25 years of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada.
2026 Biggest Little Golf Tournament
The 2026 Biggest Little Golf Tournament brought together sponsors, volunteers, golfers, and community supporters for a day dedicated to defending the potential of local youth.
Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, especially our presenting sponsor, Weigl Concrete, silent auction donors, volunteers, and participants, the tournament was a tremendous success. Beyond a day on the course, the event served as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when a community comes together to invest in mentorship. We are incredibly grateful to all 288 golfers, 35+ sponsors, and over 25 volunteers who helped make this year’s tournament possible.
Community Partnerships Relaunch
Thanks to the 2026 cohort of Interns, we are proud to announce the relaunch of our Community Partnerships initiative. This creates new opportunities for local businesses and organizations to support mentorship throughout Northern Nevada.
The relaunch included updated resources, refreshed communications, and renewed efforts to connect Bigs, Littles, and families with businesses that believe in our mission. These partnerships help expand opportunities for matches while increasing community awareness of the impact mentorship creates.
As part of this relaunch, we also introduced a new Community Partnership Interest Form on our website. This tool makes it easier for businesses and organizations to express interest in partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada. By streamlining the connection process, we hope to create more opportunities for collaboration and continue growing a network of community champions dedicated to supporting local youth.
Program Updates
Big Futures Celebration
Designed to prepare Littles for life after high school through exposure to the Three E’s: employment, education, and enlistment. Big Futures challenged participants to think intentionally about their futures. The program concluded with a celebration recognizing the dedication and growth of our 18 participants.
Through immersive experiences, guest speakers, and hands-on learning opportunities, Littles explored what is possible beyond graduation and gained valuable tools to help them pursue their goals with confidence.
High School Graduation
We had the privilege of celebrating one of the most meaningful milestones in a young person’s journey, high school graduation. Surrounded by mentors, families, supporters, and BBBSNN staff, our 2026 graduating Littles were recognized for their hard work, perseverance, and accomplishments both in school and throughout their time in our program.
The celebration was filled with scholarship awards, heartfelt moments, and reflections on their achievements, highlighting the lasting impact of mentorship and the bright futures ahead. As they prepare for their next chapter, we are proud of the resilience, determination, and confidence they have developed along the way.
Matches in Motion
At the heart of our work are the Matches, and this quarter provided meaningful opportunities for Bigs and Littles to learn, grow, and connect through shared experiences.
One highlight was The Discovery Museum, where Bigs and Littles participated in an immersive Flight Academy experience. Together, they built and tested balsa wood gliders, launched compressed-air rockets, piloted drones through obstacle courses, designed lunar bases, and created custom mission patches. Through hands-on STEM activities and teamwork, Matches strengthened their relationships while exploring new ideas and skills.
Thank you to The Discovery Museum and our community partners for helping create experiences that inspire curiosity, confidence, and connection.
Stewardship in Action
MENtor Mixer
The 2026 MENtor Mixer was an important opportunity to inspire and recruit the next generation of Bigs while strengthening the existing community of MENtors. The evening brought together current Bigs, prospective Bigs, community members, and supporters for meaningful conversations. Through shared stories, friendly competition, thanks to the Reno Cornhole Club, and authentic connections, attendees gained a deeper understanding of our programs and the lasting difference Bigs can make on a young person’s life.
With more than 60% of our waitlist being boys, the need for male Bigs remains. Events like MENtor Mixer help raise awareness of that need while encouraging more men to step forward and become positive role models for local youth.
Office Revamp
Behind the scenes, our team has been hard at work transforming our office into a space that better reflects the heart of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada. Designed to be more welcoming, functional, and mission-driven, the refreshed environment creates an improved experience for staff, volunteers, families, supporters, and every young person who walks through our doors.
The office revamp also provided an opportunity to proudly showcase the incredible community that makes our work possible. New displays highlight our sponsors, partners, and supporters whose investments help defend the potential of youth across Northern Nevada. The refresh reflects our values, celebrates our partnerships, and creates a vibrant environment where meaningful connections can continue to grow.
Interns Leaving an Impact
We also recognize the contributions of our interns, Samuel Rea Ramirez and Makenzie Pina who have played an important role in advancing our mission.
From supporting marketing initiatives and event planning to strengthening community outreach and storytelling efforts, our interns have helped expand our capacity and bring fresh perspectives to our work. Their dedication, creativity, and commitment have left a lasting impact on our organization, and we are grateful for everything they have contributed during their time with us.
Looking Forward
As we move into the second half of 2026, we remain inspired by the generosity, commitment, and passion of our community. To our Bigs, Littles, families, donors, volunteers, community partners, and supporters, thank you. Get ready for MORE mentorship in 2026 with the 2026 Match Picnic, Paint the Town Green (September 13-19), The Big Chefs Big Gala, PBS Kids Days, and so much more!
Big Chefs Big Gala
One of the most anticipated events of the year! The 2026 Big Chefs Big Gala is BACK on September 26, 2026. This year we are coming together to celebrate 25 years of finding hope, creating resilience, and highlighting the bright futures of youth across Northern Nevada.
This anniversary event honors the silver linings of the last 25 years. The steady hand, the listening ear, and the unwavering belief that unlock our youth’s inherent potential.
Savor gourmet bites and smoked cocktails from our favorite local chefs while celebrating 25 years of life-changing mentorship through inspiring stories and a high-stakes live auction. Then, keep the energy alive at the exclusive after-party with live music, dancing, and a community united in defending potential. Secure your table here.
2026 Golf Cart Raffle
Get ready for an exciting chance to win the innovative Denago Nomad XL, the ultimate low-speed vehicle that combines style and functionality! This incredible electric golf cart is perfect for cruising around the golf course or enjoying leisurely rides in your community. With its spacious design, eco-friendly features, and smooth handling, the Denago Nomad XL is a game-changer!
Purchase your tickets here.