February 9th, 2024





IN THIS ISSUE:


  • Black History Month
  • Bowl For Kids' Sake
  • Rodeo Parade


  • Arizona Charitable Tax Credit
  • Board Member Spotlight
  • Open House Thank You & Capital Campaign

“All kids need is a little help, a little hope, and someone who believes in them.” – Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson

At Big Brothers Big Sisters, we're committed to making a difference in the lives of young people and fostering strong, positive relationships. Join us in celebrating the richness of our differences and working towards a more just and equal society. 📣Calling all community champions! This Black History Month, become a Big!

Become a Mentor Today!

Bowl For Kids' Sake!

🚀✨ Get ready to unleash your inner superhero at Bowl For Kids' Sake! We're thrilled to announce that this year's event is taking you straight into the exciting realm of ComicCon. Join us for 2 days filled with fun as we raise funds to support the life-changing work of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Whether you come with your company, friends, or family, Bowl For Kids' Sake guarantees a memorable experience that makes a difference. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity, register today and let's make a positive impact together! 🎳🎉

Register Today!

BIG Open House Thank You!

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended our Open House at our new home and got to explore the Scott & Jennifer Lehman Youth Mentoring Center! Special shoutout to vendors: Just Churros for the delicious treats, Dutch Bros Coffee for keeping us caffeinated, and 288Print for our wonderful banner everyone signed. Also, a big thank you to Red Diamond Rentals for providing tables and chairs.


As we continue to develop our space, we still need support to pave our bold path to a bright future. For information on our Capital Campaign and to offer your support, please contact Veronica Saiz at veronica@soazbigs.org or call 520-365-2263.

Tucson Rodeo Parade!

We eagerly anticipate joining the Tucson Rodeo Parade on Thursday, February 22nd at 9:00 am once again! Keep an eye out for our float if you're at the parade!


Our appreciation goes out to Chandler Warden and the Bert W. Martin Foundation for their generous support, with Mr. Warden's consistent investment in our programs and ensuring our presence in the parade each year.

Board Member Spotlight

“It brings me immense joy to hear success stories and meet the Bigs and Littles whose lives have been positively impacted by mentorship.”


-Rebecca Crane, 2024 BBBSSA Board Chair

Rebecca Crane is the 2024 incoming Chair for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Arizona’s Board of Directors. Rebecca is a Realtor and Team Owner of Signature Group at Real Broker. She has served on the Board of Directors since 2019; however, Rebecca’s involvement with Bigs began as one of the founding members of the BBBSSA Advocacy Board of Young Professionals in 2014.


Rebecca, a native Tucsonan, is a graduate of Pima Community College. While attending the University of Arizona she discovered her passion for real estate and transitioned to becoming a full-time realtor.


Rebecca was introduced to Big Brothers Big Sisters by a former Board Member and Little Brother. Her board membership provides her with a deep knowledge of the agency and its community impact which instantly harnessed her dedication. She continues to leverage her strengths as an advocate for youth, spreading awareness and fundraising for the organization as a board member.


When asked how she would respond to someone interested in supporting BBBSSA, Rebecca replied, “I would encourage anyone considering joining the Board or volunteering to take the leap! It's an incredible opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the Tucson community. By volunteering your time and skills, you can positively impact the lives of our youth and create positive change for our future. Plus, you'll have the chance to collaborate with like-minded individuals, broaden your network, and gain valuable experience.”


Rebecca is very family oriented. She and her other half, Jake, enjoy their two-year-old son Axel, with all his giggles and full days of mischief. And of course, their family would not be complete without their two fur babies who they cherish as siblings to their son.


Rebecca is also passionate about her clients and known to see beyond “selling homes.” She instead, creates dreams, memories and futures for her clients who become part of her family. Rebecca was ranked #66 in Southern Arizona’s TOP 100 Residential Real Estate Agents for 2023 out of over 6,000 local agents, a well-deserved distinction.

“The lasting bond created by each pair; it's impossible to not be impressed when watching how much the Littles learn & benefit from their Bigs, as well as how much Bigs learn & benefit from their Littles.”


- Andrew Gasparro, 2024 BBBSSA Board Vice Chair

Andrew Gasparro is the 2024 incoming Vice Chair for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Arizona’s (BBBSSA) Board of Directors. Andrew is the Vice President of Land for KB Home in Tucson and has served on the BBBSSA Board of Directors since 2022, however Andrew’s connection to BBBSSA goes back to 2005, when he first volunteered to be a Big Brother.


Andrew is a graduate of the University of Arizona where he met his college “sweet-heart” and fiancé Laura. Although Andrew’s permanent residence is in Phoenix, he divides his time between both cities and considers Tucson his home-town!


Andrew was attracted to the BBBSSA Board because of the opportunity to work closely with other youth-focused individuals, BBBSSA leadership and staff seeking a common goal to help ignite the power and promise of youth in the greater Tucson community.


When asked what he would say to someone interested in supporting BBBSSA, Andrew said, “There is never a better time than TODAY to begin prioritizing the future of the youth in the greater Tucson community, with contribution opportunities through volunteering as a "Big Brother" or "Big Sister", fundraising for the organization, and board membership to help BBBSSA achieve its strategic goals throughout the community.”


Andrew spends his free time dedicated to charity, community, family, and real estate industry activities and events. Andrew is a current ‘Big’ to his ‘Little’ George; matched 2 years. Andrew serves as Chair for the City of Phoenix’s Ahwatukee Foothills Village Planning Commission, Vice Chair for the Southern Arizona Home Builders Association (SAHBA), a member of Tucson Metro Chamber’s Emerging Leaders Council, named to ProBuilder Magazine’s National 40 under 40 List for 2023, and recently recognized in BizTucson Magazine's 2024 Next Gen: Rising Stars to Watch!

You can still donate before April 15th, 2024 that can be applied to your 2023 tax obligation.


Donate up to $421 if you file single or up to $841 if you file jointly on your Arizona tax return.


EVERY DOLLAR HELPS ignite potential in youth through one-to-one mentoring with a caring adult.

DONATE TODAY

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Arizona


supportus@soazbigs.org www.soazbigs.org


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