What did Big Sister Adriana and Little Sister Katrina do to celebrate being named Bigs and Littles of the Year?
They cooked together — of course! 💚

Big Sister Adriana has been a significant presence in Little Sister Katrina’s life since the moment they were matched five years ago. From the very beginning, Adriana intentionally created meaningful traditions that continue to shape their relationship today.

At the end of every outing, Adriana and Katrina write in their journals, recording their adventures and documenting the new activities they try together. These journals are filled with joyful memories and reflections. Documenting their shared experiences has brought the match even closer and given them something truly special to cherish when their match eventually comes to a close.

Adriana consistently prioritizes meaningful match experiences that support Katrina’s growth, encourage her goals, and help her discover new passions. On one outing, the pair visited Crumbl Cookie, where Katrina tried and loved a strawberry shortcake cookie. She asked Adriana if they could recreate it during a future home visit. As always, Adriana jumped into action, encouraging Katrina to search for a recipe. After finding their favorite, they baked the cookies together—and Katrina proudly declared that their version tasted even better than Crumbl’s. They’ve continued recreating these special cookies and experimenting with new recipes, inspiring Katrina to develop an interest in baking beyond the match.

Another powerful moment of support came during an outing to a bookstore. Katrina was feeling nervous about starting middle school when Adriana came across The Survival Guide to Middle School. The book quickly became a lifeline for Katrina as she navigated new academic and social challenges. She read the book aloud to Adriana during every car ride and still refers back to it today when a difficult situation arises. Thanks to this resource—and the meaningful conversations that followed—Katrina is no longer anxious about middle school and is truly thriving

Today, the match continues to grow stronger as Adriana and Katrina enjoy activities that reflect Katrina’s evolving interests. In addition to their shared love of baking, Big Sister Adriana and Little Sister Katrina attend BBBSNHVT events, participate in monthly Home Depot workshops, create art in Adriana’s ceramic studio, enjoy their favorite meals at T-Bones, and visit local fairs together.

We are constantly impressed and inspired by the lasting relationship Big Sister Adriana has built with Little Sister Katrina. She consistently goes above and beyond to provide guidance, encouragement, and opportunities to try new things—experiences that have helped shape Katrina into the confident young person she is becoming.

OUR SECOND AWARD GOES TO:

BIG BROTHER KEVIN AND LITTLE BROTHER SHAUN!

Big Brother Kevin and Little Brother Shaun exemplify the true strength of mentorship. Shaun has been without a father figure since his father tragically passed away in 2016. Since their match began in 2018, Kevin has naturally stepped into that role, offering consistent guidance, encouragement, and support in countless ways.

Big Brother Kevin faithfully attends Little Brother Shaun’s football, basketball, and baseball games and intentionally teaches him important life skills, including how to communicate effectively, apologize when needed, and advocate for himself in school. From the moment this match was assigned to my caseload, it was immediately clear that Kevin plays a deeply meaningful role in Shaun’s life.

Kevin shared that Shaun has invited him to “Grandpa and Special Friends Day” at school for the past two to three years—an invitation that speaks volumes about the bond they share. During a check-in, Big Brother Kevin also recalled receiving a heartfelt Father’s Day voicemail from Shaun a few years ago, thanking him for the fun they shared and expressing genuine appreciation for his presence.

Kevin fondly remembered another moment when Shaun insisted that he be included in a family gathering, saying, “Big Brother is family too—he needs to be invited.” Shaun’s mother, Leslie, wholeheartedly agreed. With Shaun’s older brother serving in the Army and not around as often, Shaun deeply values the time he spends with Kevin.

OUR THIRD AWARD GOES TO:

BIG BROTHER COLIN AND LITTLE BROTHER COWAN!

Congratulations to Big Brother Colin and Little Brother Cowan, our Bigs and Littles of the Year! 🎉

Little Brother Cowan and Big Brother Colin have shared an amazing journey for nearly four years, and their bond is truly inspiring. From the very beginning, they clicked instantly—Cowan’s mother even said they were “like two peas in a pod.” If there’s an outdoor activity to try, you can almost always find Big Brother Colin and Little Brother Cowan jumping right in.

Over the years, they’ve discovered countless shared interests, including hiking, skiing, kayaking, skateboarding, disc golf, woodworking, and even playing Minecraft online from time to time. Their love for the outdoors and creativity has turned every meeting into an adventure.

Cowan’s mom describes Big Brother Colin as relaxed, patient, and a great listener, and shared how much his consistency and dedication mean to their family. At different times, both Big Brother and Little Brother have expressed that they couldn’t ask for a better match. Cowan sums it up perfectly with his favorite saying: “Big Brother days are fun-day Sundays!”

This match is a shining example of what mentorship is all about—connection, growth, and shared joy. Here’s to many more years of friendship and fun! 💚