On May 13, 2026, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lehigh Valley welcomed mentors, families, supporters, and community members to Big Stories, our annual event celebrating the life-changing power of mentorship. Each year, Big Stories gives us the opportunity to recognize milestone moments across our program: from graduating seniors preparing for what comes next, to scholarship recipients taking the next step in their education, to extraordinary Bigs and Littles whose growth reflects the heart of our mission.
This year’s event was especially meaningful as we welcomed previous honorees back to help with the program, creating a powerful sense of continuity and community. Their presence reflected what makes Big Stories so special: these relationships do not end with an award or a graduation. The impact of mentorship continues, shaping futures, strengthening confidence, and building connections that last for years.
Match of the Year: Big Sally and Little Briza
One of the evening’s most moving moments was the recognition of Big Sally and Little Briza as the 2026 Match of the Year. Introduced by the 2025 honorees, Big Murdocc and Little PJ, Sally and Briza’s story captured the deep trust, encouragement, and mutual growth that define a meaningful match. Briza’s mother, who nominated Sally and Briza, described Sally as a steady and compassionate presence who helped her daughter build confidence, find her voice, and embrace who she is. Their shared love of art became a foundation for connection, creativity, and self-expression, while their seven-year friendship has supported Briza through key moments in her growth.
Little Briza reflected on how mentorship changed her life, helping her move from isolation and uncertainty toward confidence, friendship, and self-expression. That growth is evident in what comes next: Briza was accepted to 15 colleges and will attend Kutztown University where she plans to double major in Animated Arts and Communication Design. Sally spoke just as powerfully about the honor of growing alongside Briza and witnessing her become a talented, thoughtful young woman ready for her next chapter. Together, their story served as a reminder that mentorship is not simply guidance; it is a relationship rooted in consistency, trust, and belief in one another.
Little of the Year: Little Amber
The evening also celebrated Little Amber as our 2026 Little of the Year. Nominated by her Big Sister Katie, Amber was recognized for her resilience, compassion, and remarkable personal growth. Over four years in our Beyond School Walls program, Amber has grown in confidence, found strength in her own voice, and shown a willingness to challenge herself in meaningful ways. Katie’s tribute highlighted not only Amber’s progress, but also the way this relationship has been transformative in both directions—an example of how Littles make a lasting impact on the lives of their Bigs as well.
Amber shared that the program has meant so much to her over the years, especially through the encouragement and steady support of Katie. She spoke about how their differences became a strength, helping her improve her social confidence and see life more positively. Her words reflected the courage it takes to grow—and the profound role a mentor can play in helping a young person believe that growth is possible.
Celebrating Our Seniors
Big Stories also gave us the chance to honor one of the most important milestones in a young person’s life: graduation. During the program, we recognized 11 graduating Littles and 30 High School Bigs for the dedication, resilience, and growth that brought them to this moment. Former Little and current Big Sister Jocinda helped share in that recognition, offering a powerful perspective on the lasting impact of mentorship across different stages of life. Her presence underscored a central truth of the evening: support and encouragement can shape a future long after a match begins.
The event also highlighted the importance of continued opportunity through scholarships awarded to students continuing their education beyond high school. With the support of generous donors, these awards help young people pursue their goals with greater confidence and stability. MaryTheresa, our 2025 scholarship recipient, returned to help recognize this year’s awardees after completing her first year at St. Joseph’s University. Her presence offered a meaningful reminder that even as students move into new chapters, the impact of mentorship stays with them. MaryTheresa helped us award scholarships to 6 graduating Littles and 3 graduating High School Bigs.
Why Big Stories Matters
At its core, Big Stories is a celebration of possibility. It is a chance to pause and recognize the growth, courage, and connection that happen every day through mentorship, and to honor the young people and mentors who bring that mission to life. From heartfelt stories to milestone recognitions, the evening reflected what is possible when young people have someone in their corner. As we look ahead, we remain grateful for the families, volunteers, donors, and community members who make these stories possible.