Big Brothers Big Sisters - Southern Lake Michigan Region

06/18/2025

Dear Friends of Big Brothers Big Sisters SLMR,
It is with deep gratitude and a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Big Brothers Big Sisters SLMR, effective July 1, 2025.
Since opening our doors 57 years ago, we have been privileged to witness the transformative power of mentorship. Together, we’ve built bridges between generations, created lifelong bonds, and helped thousands of young lives grow with confidence, hope, and purpose. The past several years have tested us all in ways we never could have imagined.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced us to walk a thin line—balancing our mission with the realities of an uncertain world. While we pushed through with resilience and determination, the wick has slowly run out. Despite our best efforts, the challenges have taken a lasting toll, and we’ve reached a point where continuing is no longer sustainable.

To our Bigs, thank you for your unwavering dedication and the countless hours you've invested in shaping futures. To our Littles, thank you for your courage, your dreams, and for letting us be part of your journey. To our donors, sponsors, local businesses, and community partners, your generosity and belief in our mission have made every success possible. You have been the backbone of this organization.

While our chapter as Big Brothers Big Sisters SLMR is coming to a close, the story of mentorship in our community is far from over. The mission has not ended. The impact we’ve made together will ripple forward—through every life touched, every lesson shared, and every connection made.

We are incredibly proud of the impact we’ve had—made possible by supporters like you—and we encourage you to continue giving generously to organizations in your community. These past few years have been challenging for so many, and your continued support where it’s needed most can make all the
difference. Mentorship must carry on. And we believe it will—because of you.

With heartfelt thanks,
Big Brothers Big Sisters SLMR Board of Directors

03/26/2025

https://www.wndu.com/2025/03/26/michiana-area-jersey-mikes-give-100-sales-big-brothers-big-sisters-today/

Jersey Mike’s locations across the country are donating 100% of all sales on Wednesday to more than 200 local charities as part of its annual “Day of Giving.”

01/06/2025

This month, we’re raising awareness about the transformative power of mentoring and honoring the incredible role mentors play in shaping young lives. To kick off our celebration, we’re highlighting an extraordinary match:

Match of the Month Spotlight: Christopher and Bob.

Christopher and Bob have been matched since 2017, starting as a site-based match at Christopher's elementary school. Over the past seven years, their friendship has grown tremendously, overcoming challenges and evolving into something truly special. Recently, they expanded their match into the community, demonstrating their unwavering dedication to one another. Their journey highlights the incredible impact of consistency and the deep value of mentorship.

Since expanding their match, Christopher and Bob have enjoyed trying new activities together, including exploring local restaurants. One favorite is the South Side Soda Shop in Goshen, where they’ve created new memories and strengthened their bond.

As a junior in high school, Christopher is preparing to join the local Fire Fighter’s Program. Bob plays an active role in supporting his academic and personal goals, regularly communicating with his school and attending meetings to ensure he stays on track. This hands-on mentorship has been instrumental in helping Christopher build confidence and a clear vision for his future. When asked to rate their friendship, Christopher gave it a 10, saying, “Bob has always been there for me when I need him; he’s just an awesome, awesome guy.” Their story exemplifies the positive impact mentorship has on both mentee and mentor.

This National Mentoring Month, celebrate the power of mentorship by recognizing matches like Christopher and Bob. Consider becoming a Big or supporting BBBS to help ignite potential in young people. We can create a brighter future, one match at a time.

01/06/2025

January is National Mentoring Month, and Big Brothers Big Sisters is proud to celebrate the life-changing impact of mentorship!

This month is dedicated to raising awareness about the power of mentoring and the critical role it plays in helping young people achieve their potential. At BBBS, we believe that every child deserves a champion—someone who will stand by them, encourage them, and inspire them to dream big. Mentors, who dedicate their time, energy, and heart to building lasting relationships with Littles, exemplify the profound difference a caring adult can make. Join us this month in honoring mentors everywhere and consider becoming a Big yourself to help ignite the potential in a child’s life. Together, we can create a brighter future, one match at a time!⭐

12/17/2024

🎉 Spotlight: Final Match of 2024 🎉

As we close out an incredible year at Big Brothers Big Sisters SLMR, we’re thrilled to introduce our last match of the year: Kevin and Isaiah! 💚

Kevin, who’s relatively new to town, wanted to give back to his community and be a positive influence in a child’s life. With his caring nature and life experience, Kevin is ready to have fun, share lessons, and be a trusted friend to his Little Brother.

Isaiah and Kevin are a perfect match! Both love being outdoors, playing sports, and spending time with their dogs. They’ve already set some exciting goals for their match. Isaiah wants to build confidence in swimming and feel more comfortable around the water—and it just so happens that Kevin used to swim in high school! Together, they’re looking forward to exploring the woods, playing outside, and working on projects like building Legos and model cars.

At their match meeting, Isaiah was all smiles—though a little shy at first. But as soon as the conversations started flowing, Isaiah opened up and was so excited about his new Big Brother. In fact, he was so eager to spend time together that he got emotional when the meeting wrapped up. ❤️

To make the day even more special, they snapped a photo with Santa, shared cookies, and spent time coloring together. The magic of the holiday season truly shined through as this incredible match began their journey just before Christmas and the start of a new year. 🌟

With Kevin’s kindness and enthusiasm and Isaiah’s eagerness to connect, this match is already off to an inspiring start. Their shared goals to have fun, explore, and grow together will make for lasting memories and a meaningful friendship.

This match feels like the perfect gift—for both Kevin and Isaiah. As they dive into their adventures, we can’t wait to see all they’ll accomplish in 2025!

Here’s to a wonderful new friendship and an inspiring year ahead. 💫

12/12/2024

✨ *A Year of Connection and New Beginnings* ✨

🎥 This video captures the heart of 2024: every new match made by Big Brothers Big Sisters Southern Lake Michigan Region! 💚

Each handshake, smile, and hug represents more than just a meeting—it’s the start of a journey. These connections between Bigs and Littles are planting seeds of friendship, guidance, and growth. Together, they’re shaping brighter futures and stronger communities. 🌟

To our volunteers, supporters, and everyone cheering on these matches—THANK YOU for believing in the power of mentorship. Your dedication makes moments like these possible.

Here's to more life-changing matches, one inspiring story at a time!

12/12/2024

December 2024 Match of the Month!

Introducing Little Sister Emani and Big Sister Alison. They have been matched for 8 months through the BBBS Community-Based Program!

So far, they have spent their time together exploring fun new activities. To celebrate the arrival of fall, they carved and decorated pumpkins together, a memory that both hold dear. Emani shared that she used to dislike scooping out the pumpkin guts but with Alison’s encouragement, she not only gave it a another try but even roasted the seeds afterward!

When asked what she likes most about her Big Sister, Emani said, “She’s really nice, and we have lots of fun together!” Alison is an amazing friend and mentor for Emani. She consistently shows up, supports Emani and motivates her to try new things.

Emani’s mom has expressed her gratitude for the relationship. She’s noticed how much Emani enjoys her time with Alison. Mom says that Emani having Alison as a Big Sister has been great because she helps Emani to explore her interests and grow as a person.

Emani shared with BBBS Staff and her Big that she wants to work on her building her academic achievements, building her social skills and exploring her interests. With Alison's help, Emani is making great strides toward these goals! Go Emani Go!

Alison and Emani's relationship is filled with warmth, encouragement, and a shared passion for trying new things! We can't wait to see what comes next for them!

12/03/2024

It's Giving Tuesday! Help us continue the important work of youth mentorship with a donation of any amount! Click the link to donate today! https://bbbssjc.app.neoncrm.com/forms/donation?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1In8clrft900cNA5EbMfAeoKqPi5xzZZzQbtmyzW6dxLYbI3FFSMh5krE_aem_4TnfXb2pxPqQg6NnSlprzg

11/07/2024

Meet Landen and Michael! Although they have only been matched for a short time, they’ve quickly formed a deep connection based on mutual respect. Michael brings a thoughtful, intentional approach to his time with Landen, who feels supported and engaged in pursuing his goals, especially building confidence.

Right from their first outing, Michael encouraged Landen to practice starting conversations and step out of his comfort zone. Landen was thrilled, saying, “We’re working on goals, trying new things, and getting wins. A new thing could be a win, and I find that really fun!” They’ve already explored the Chesterton Farmers Market together, where Landen tried sushi for the first time—and loved it!—and had a blast at the Porter County Popcorn Festival, snapping photos with Star Wars characters, as they’re both big fans. Their next adventure? Fishing, which they’re both excited about.



Michael’s intentionality has helped Landen recognize his own growth, and Landen appreciates how Michael’s presence makes everything feel easy and natural, saying he’s “someone I can have fun with and doesn’t make anything awkward.” When asked about Landen, Michael described him as “thoughtful, with real opinions and a clear perspective. He’s not just a ‘yes’ kid; he has guiding principles that come through in his words and actions. He’s nonviolent, but he knows he can stand up for himself, and he walks with this inner strength. Even as he talks about wanting more confidence, I think he already exudes it.”

The connection between Landen and Michael is inspiring and uplifting, and both are excited to keep growing and learning together in their rewarding friendship.

09/24/2024

We want to say a BIG thank you to our Partners at Lippert Plant 83 for hosting the Drive for Dreams car show! This event raised both funds and community awareness for one-to-one mentoring! Thanks also to our incredible media partner TJ21 Media Group for covering the event!