Big Brothers Big Sisters Summer Picnic Recap: Celebrating Our Matches!

Last week, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada (BBBSNN) hosted our annual Big Brothers Big Sisters Summer Picnic in the Park, celebrating the fantastic matches in our community! We were joined by community partners from the Reno Tahoe International Art Show, University of Nevada Football, and Washoe County 4-H Youth Development, who helped make this event fun and inviting for everyone. 

The Big Brothers Big Sisters Youth Summer Picnic: An Embodiment of Our Mission 

At BBBSNN, we believe that every child has incredible potential, and it’s our purpose to defend it. Events like our Big Brothers Big Sisters Summer Picnic are crucial because they create the space for these meaningful connections to deepen and flourish. 

When matches last a year or longer, our Littles experience the greatest impact, with survey data reporting increased social competence at 25%. This shows how they begin to own their potential with the consistent support from their Big. This picnic fostered those critical connections, strengthening our community by helping the youngest among us reach their biggest possible futures. Ma’Kayla Porter, Volunteer and Community Outreach Specialist, emphasizes the profound impact of coming together:  

“The relationship between a Big and a Little is so special, and there are a lot of moving parts that go into fostering then nurturing that connection. It’s so invaluable to see an established match having a blast at the picnic and be reminded all the little things we do our roles add up to create these big moments.”  

Interactions that Foster Potential 

The Big Brothers Big Sisters Summer Picnic truly exemplified our mission. It was heartwarming to see so many of our matches come together, enjoying good food, fun games, and creative activities. From sizzling hot dogs and juicy burgers served by our members of the board, Danny Schenker and Mike Givens, to spirited rounds of volleyball with UNR Public Health Professor, Dr. Angela Heinemann, there was something for everyone to ignite their potential. Big Sister, Erika, shared engaging moments with her Little Lilly who shared,

“This is the best picnic of my life.”  

These authentic moments, featuring Bigs and Littles, are the most meaningful ways to inject humor, joy, and emotion into our stories. They highlight the one-to-one nature of our work and our profound impact, showcasing how individual interactions bring our mission to life. 

Building Mentorship: How Our Community Partners Empower Potential! 

This Big Brothers Big Sisters Summer Picnic wouldn’t have been possible without the amazing support of our community partners. A huge thank you to the Reno Tahoe International Art Show, University of Nevada Football, and Washoe County 4-H Youth Development for their incredible contributions, helping us make this picnic extra special. Their dedication and community interactions empower us to continue championing the power of action and clearing the path to a child’s biggest possible future in Northern Nevada. Every individual who interacts with our organization, including our cherished community partners, acts as a Defender of Potential. If you are interested in supporting our matches and becoming a Defender of Potential, please visit our website or reach out. 

Mentorship Matters 

The energy throughout the evening was a testament to the powerful impact of mentorship. Seeing Bigs and Littles sharing smiles, making memories, and strengthening their bonds is at the heart of what we do here. We are confident that we are bettering our communities when we empower potential. 

For those who joined us at the Big Brothers Big Sisters Summer Picnic, we hope you had as much fun as we did! And for those who couldn’t make it, we missed you! Keep an eye out for our next exciting event – we can’t wait to see all your faces as we continue to stand with you today and empower potential. 

Stand with us today! 

Looking Forward 

Finally we ask you to stay tuned for more updates and opportunities to get involved.