In 2016, BBBS of America launched our LGBTQ+ Youth Mentoring Enhancement Initiative. This initiative was research-based, thoughtful, and deliberate. It was designed to ensure not just that LGBTQ youth and mentors would be accepted or tolerated within Big Brothers Big Sisters, but that they would be affirmed, understood, and celebrated. The initiative began as a pilot program with five local agencies. A year later, we expanded it to 20 agencies. Now, we’ve included our whole network in the program, which includes training opportunities, inclusive policies and procedures, and specific focus on anti-bullying, self-advocacy, and identity exploration.

On June 19, 1865, a Union general rode into Galveston, TX announcing that the Civil War had ended and the last enslaved Africans living in America were officially free from slavery—this day is known as Black Independence Day, or Juneteenth. BBBS Upstate recognizes this momentous day and moves forward with a hope and determination for a better tomorrow.

BBBS Upstate Spotlights

Meet Big Brother Charles and Little Brother Lee.

They have been matched for 6 months and are already sharing big life moments. Big Charles recently graudated with his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, and Little Lee recently received school awards for being kind, respectful, smart, and accomplished. They were by each other’s side at both celebrations; take a peek at the photos below.

“Oh Lee is my Little Brother for life! There’s no getting rid of me now!” said Big Charles.

Help us congratulate both Big Charles for his recent graduation and Little Brother Lee for his recent awards day acknowledgements.

BBBS Upstate wants to say thank you to Charles, Lee, and Lee’s mother for all they do to make this match a success. We believe both of your futures are “so bright!”

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Congratulations Azariel Gaspar on a big month- scholarship award, 18th birthday, prom, and now graduation, (and don’t forget the new job)! We couldn’t be prouder of you at Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Upstate. Your future is bright! Thanks Paul Dorsch for your support and mentoring.

Fundraising Events

Feast for Kids’ Sake Highlights

50 gift cards were donated from local businesses for the online auction
The Cook’s Station and Spartanburg Community College taught our Bigs and Littles to make pizza dough by hand and pizzas with their favorite toppings
Juniper in Greenville and Dray Bar & Grill in Spartanburg each hosted a delicious Chef’s Dinner & Wine Tasting with a silent auction for our supporters
The 4th Annual Feast for Kids’ Sake raised nearly $30,000 to create and support mentoring relationships for marginalized youth in our community

Kendra Scott Give Back Highlight

Ulta Beauty

The Ulta Beauty Charitable Foundation is teaming up with Big Brothers Big Sisters to support the well-being of youth across the country! From May 19 through June 15, when you shop in-store at Ulta Beauty, you can donate to help support youth in your area. Together, #UltaBeauty and BBBS are prioritizing mental health and nurturing meaningful connections for youth. Get to Ulta Beauty or purchase a gift card online at ulta.com and donate to support youth in your community!

Become a Match Maker

Donate Here

MATCH MAKERS empower the potential of children across the Upstate through individual giving. By making a monthly gift, you will help introduce a waiting Little to their Big each and every month.

Due to inflation, it now costs $2,250 to support one match. Here’s the breakdown.

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Make a one-time or recurring gift to help fund a match. See the one-time or monthly giving levels below along with their impacts and benefits.

A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR CURRENT MATCH MAKERS!

Upcoming Match Activities

Greenville Drive Games

Many thanks to the generosity of our newest partner, Reeves, and EY for their continued support.

Greenville Drive Baseball Game
Donated by Reeves
Greenville, SC

When: Friday, June 14, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Reserve your tickets here

Greenville Drive Baseball Game
Donated by Reeves
Greenville, SC

When: Saturday, June 16, 2024
Time: 3:00 p.m.
Reserve your tickets here

Greenville Drive Baseball Game
EY check presentation to BBBS Upstate
Greenville, SC

When: Friday, June 28, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Contact your program specialist for tickets

Greenville Drive Baseball Game
Donated by Reeves
Greenville, SC

When: Tuesday, June 25, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m.

Bowl for Kids’ Sake

Saturday, June 22, 2024

Time: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

RSVP for the fun here

BBBS Upstate would like to thank all of our volunteers, board members, community partners, and families for your continued support. We invite all of you to join us for FREE bowling and food!

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Summer Camp Presented by Speaking Down Barriers

July 8-12 and July 15-19

Universalist Church of Spartanburg

Welcome to the SDB Summer Camp! Kid’s ages 11-17 will be joining us for 2 weeks of fun at the UU of Spartanburg. Our camp offers a variety of activities including arts and crafts, poetry and writing workshops and more. It’s a great opportunity for kids to make new friends and create lasting memories. Don’t miss out on this exciting summer experience!

Breakfast snacks and lunch will be provided.

WEEK ONE REGISTRATION: JULY 8TH – 12TH 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

WEEK TWO REGISTRATION: JULY 15TH – JULY 19TH 8:00 AM – 5:00PM

If either of the links are incorrect or are not working properly all of our links are available on the linktree provided below:

Speaking Down Barriers linktree

BBBS Upstate Welcomes…

Brentan and Jacob

They plan on spending as much time outdoors as possible! They’re excited to try fishing and hiking together and Brentan is excited to learn how to ride a bike!

Happy Anniversary to our June matches! We’re so excited to hear about the adventures you go on this year.

Click Here to Become a Big

MRS. DOUBTFIRE AT THE PEACE CENTER

Thank you to the Peace Center for treating the youth we serve to an amazing theater experience. Here is what the Big Sister had to say about her Little’s experience:

“She was paying a great deal of attention to the singing and dancing! I appreciate the opportunity very much.”

Annoucement for Families of Littles

Check out all the places providing free meals for kids in Spartanburg, Greenville, and Pickens County this summer.

Where to find free lunch during the summer: Greenville, Spartanburg, and Pickens County, SC

Kidding Around Greenville – Free Summer Lunch Lists

Greenville County Schools Summer Food Service Program

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We have free STEM kits at the Greenville office for pickup. Contact your Match Support Specialist to schedule a time to pick up a kit full of fun activities.