Celebrating Our 6th Anniversary and Volunteer Appreciation Month
As we embrace the arrival of spring, we also celebrate the incredible individuals who make our mission possible. This April, as Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry celebrates Volunteer Appreciation Month, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to each of you who gives your time, energy, and passion to create brighter futures for children in our community.
Our Bigs are the mentors who make a profound impact on the lives of our Littles, offering guidance, friendship, and support that lasts a lifetime. Whether you’re mentoring a child, supporting events, or helping behind the scenes, your dedication is truly making a difference.
To all of our Bigs, Littles, and volunteers—thank you for being the heroes of our mission. Your work not only changes lives, but it also builds stronger communities and brighter futures for generations to come.
We couldn’t do it without you, and we’re so proud to have you as part of our Big Brothers Big Sisters family. If you’re interested in becoming a Big or learning more about how you can make an impact, please reach out to us. Together, we can continue to change lives, one match at a time.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Welcomes New CEO: Chajuanna (CJ) Gathers
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry is excited to welcome Chajuanna (CJ) Gathers as its new CEO! With nearly a decade of nonprofit experience, CJ previously served as Program Director at YWCA Greater Charleston and is the founder of the W.E. Group, a women’s empowerment nonprofit. She also serves on the board of Charleston Hope, which focuses on mental health initiatives in schools.
BBBSL Board Chair Peter Davidson expressed enthusiasm for CJ’s leadership, highlighting her commitment to the organization’s mission and the opportunity to expand its impact on underserved youth. CJ steps into the role following the tenure of founding CEO Meredith Crowe, with Ryan Vrba having served as interim CEO.
“I am honored to join BBBSL and excited to work alongside our dedicated team to empower, engage, and expand opportunities for youth in the Tri-County area,” said Gathers.
April Match Activity: Pickle Bar
Join us for an afternoon of pickleball, snacks 🍿, and refreshing beverages 🥤 with your Little! It’s going to be an amazing time, and we can’t wait to see you there!
Mark your calendar and join the fun! 💙
📅 Date: Friday, April 19th
⏰ Time: 12:45 PM – 3:00 PM
📍 Location: Pickle Bar, 162 Cherry St, Summerville, SC 29486
May Percentage Night: SkyZone Trampoline Park
Join us at SkyZone on May 18th from 12 PM to 7 PM for a day of jumping and fun! 20% of the proceeds will go right back to supporting our mission.
We hope to see you there!
Event Details:
📅 Date: Sunday, May 18th
⏰ Time: 12 PM – 7 PM
📍 Location: SkyZone Trampoline Park, 411 Wando Park Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
March Match Activity Recap
In March, Bigs and Littles came together at Stars and Strikes for an exciting day of fun, connection, and lasting memories. The event was filled with energy as participants teamed up for an action-packed game of laser tag, fostering teamwork and camaraderie through friendly competition. The arcade added to the excitement, offering a variety of games where Bigs and Littles tested their skills and shared plenty of laughs.
After the games, everyone gathered to enjoy pizza and soda, creating the perfect setting to relax, share stories, and strengthen their bonds. The event wasn’t just about having fun—it was also a meaningful opportunity for mentorship in a casual and engaging environment.
Stingrays Nonprofit Recognition Night Recap
On March 21st, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry was honored to be recognized at the South Carolina Stingrays’ Non-Profit Recognition Night. As part of the event, we had the opportunity to step onto the ice and share our mission with the crowd. Several matches and staff attended, making it a great night to connect, celebrate, and enjoy the game together. It was a fun and memorable experience for everyone involved, and we’re grateful to the Stingrays and Blanton & Sons Heating and Cooling for their support!
Match Safety for Littles: Has your big ever had alcohol around you? If so, when?
At Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry, the safety and well-being of our Littles is our top priority. To ensure a positive and healthy mentoring experience, Bigs are expected to follow all local, state, and federal laws and adhere to our program’s safety policies.
This month, Match Coordinators will be having conversations with Bigs, Littles, and guardians to reinforce these safety expectations and provide support as needed.
Thank you for being a part of our mission to create safe and meaningful mentoring relationships!
As part of these guidelines:
✅ Bigs should never use alcohol or drugs before or during time with their Little.
✅ Bigs should not consume alcohol in the presence of their Little.
✅ Tobacco use is not allowed while spending time with a Little.
Horizons at Ashley Hall – Girls Summer Program
Horizons is focusing on recruiting females who will be rising 7th, 8th, and 9th graders next year!