2025 BIG Raise
We’re looking for passionate, purpose-driven individuals to join our BIG Raise Committee, a peer-to-peer fundraising campaign happening throughout October in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry.
As a committee member, you’ll play a vital role in raising the funds that make life-changing, one-to-one mentoring possible for youth right here in our community. It’s a meaningful way to make an impact, and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
If you’re ready to use your voice for something BIG, reach out to Keely Telfer at 843-212-7968 or keely@bbbslowcountry.org. We’d be thrilled to have you on board!
Match Success: Leo & Michael
When Leo was facing challenges both at home and at school, his mother Natasha knew he needed extra support. Wanting him to have a positive male role model, especially in the absence of a father figure, she turned to Big Brothers Big Sisters. Since the start of the match, Natasha has seen remarkable changes in Leo — he’s more respectful, well-mannered, and showing real improvement in school. “With Michael’s help, Leo is doing awesome,” she shared. “He doesn’t have negative thoughts anymore. He’s a much happier kid.” Describing her son as outgoing, wild, and free-spirited, Natasha says Leo has always had a strong passion for basketball. Recently, though, he’s developed new interests like baseball, fishing, hunting, and four-wheeling. Natasha is grateful for Michael’s continued presence and is excited for what lies ahead for Leo.
Leo says he wanted a Big Brother because he was going through some tough times and needed someone to hang out with and learn from. Since being matched with Michael, the two have bonded over shared interests like basketball and fishing. “Michael has helped me a lot with studying and getting my schoolwork done. My grades have gotten better!” He’s excited to try new activities with Michael and hopes they can go swimming together soon. One of his favorite memories is the day they went fishing and he caught a fish — and he was thrilled when Michael came to one of his basketball games to cheer him on.
For Michael, becoming a mentor has been deeply personal. “Mentoring played a huge role in my own success, both professionally and personally. Having someone to support you is so important to help you grow and understand different life experiences.” He aims to be a consistent and supportive presence in Leo’s life, helping him build skills, grow confidence, and explore his interests. Recently, Michael has seen Leo become more engaged in school and more responsible at home. “His joy level has definitely gone up,” he said. “Leo is also extremely personable — he loves getting others involved. One time at the baseball field, he just jumped in with a group of kids already playing and made new friends on the spot.” Together, the two have made plenty of memories, from laser tag (a first for Michael!) to playing pickleball. Whether they’re trying something new or just hanging out, their bond continues to grow — one adventure at a time.
August Resource Update
As we enter August, we’re focusing on internet safety to help keep Littles safe and informed online. Be on the lookout for an email from us on August 28th with helpful resources, including:
- Tips on setting digital boundaries
- Guidance on using privacy settings
- Tools for having open conversations about online safety
If you have any questions after receiving the email, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your Match Support Coordinator, Dana or Avery—they’re here to help!
At BBBSL, we encourage our matches to participate in free or low-cost activities, and we aim to provide one free match activity each month. Please note: space is limited at these events, so we recommend Bigs sign up as soon as their Littles confirm they can attend. We reccommend that Bigs sign up as soon as their Little confirms availability to ensure their spot.
August Safety Focus
Back-to-school season brings new routines, environments, and transitions. This month, take a moment to talk with your Little about what to do if they ever feel unsafe at school or on the way there. Ask your Little:
“What would you do if you didn’t feel safe at school or on the way to school?”
“Is there a trusted adult—like someone on the bus, at school, or nearby—you can go to for help?”
Encourage them to think about who they can turn to and how they can reach out if something doesn’t feel right. Having a safety plan in place can make a BIG difference in helping your Little feel secure and supported. Let’s start the school year strong by helping our Littles feel prepared, empowered, and protected!
New Role, Bigger Impact: Dana Orr Promoted
Our very own Dana Orr has officially moved into the role of Program Manager! Over the last three years at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry, Dana has been dedicated to supporting Bigs, Littles, and families while helping grow our mentoring community. After serving as a Match Support Coordinator, we’re excited to celebrate their promotion to Program Manager. Dana brings a passion for youth empowerment and a commitment to strengthening our programs, and we’re excited to see their leadership grow in this new role as they continue to help ignite potential across the Lowcountry.
Thank You to Our Outgoing Board Members
Please join us in extending our sincere gratitude to Peter Davidson, Tyler Heffernan, and Ryan Cass as they conclude their terms on the Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry Board of Directors.
We are truly grateful for your time, leadership, and unwavering dedication to our mission. Your service has made a meaningful impact on our organization and helped shape brighter futures for the youth in our community.
Once a part of the BBBSL family, always a part of the BBBSL family. Thank you for everything you’ve done to support Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry.
2025 BIG Golf Cart Raffle Recap
After weeks of excitement and ticket sales, our BIG Golf Cart Raffle has come to a joyful close. Congratulations to our raffle winner, Fredrica Cryan!
Because of your generosity, we reached our fundraising goal—fueling more one-to-one mentoring across the Lowcountry. Whether you bought a ticket, spread the word, or simply came out to cheer us on, your support helped make this fundraiser a BIG success.
We couldn’t do it without our amazing community. Thank you for helping us drive change, one match at a time. 💚
Thank you to Joe and his family for their generous support. We couldnt have done this without you! Check out Joe’s carts End of Summer Sale!
A Wild Day at the Serpentarium
Our July Match Activity was full of scales, smiles, and unforgettable moments! Matches took a trip to the Edisto Island Serpentarium, where they had the chance to get up close with a variety of reptiles and learn all about their habitats, behaviors, and the important role they play in our ecosystem.
It was a fun, educational day that sparked curiosity and created lasting memories for our Bigs and Littles.
A special thank you to Edisto Island Serpentarium for generously hosting us and giving our Littles an experience they won’t forget!
August Observances
August marks several meaningful observances that align closely with our mission to ignite the power and promise of youth through one-to-one mentorship.
International Youth Day on August 12 celebrates young people and underscores the importance of empowering them through mentorship, guidance, and opportunity.
National Back to School Month highlights the importance of starting the school year with strong support systems. Our Bigs help Littles feel confident, prepared, and motivated to succeed in and out of the classroom.
National Wellness Month promotes mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Through consistent support and encouragement, our mentors help youth build healthy habits and positive self-esteem.
National Nonprofit Day on August 17 offers a chance to recognize the impact of nonprofit organizations and the community members who power our work, including donors, volunteers, and partners.