ROLE MODELS GALA

Each year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska honors a match that captures the true spirit of mentorship — showing how one caring relationship can spark confidence, resilience, and a bright future.

This year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Alaska is proud to recognize Big Sister Cass and Little Sister Kenzie as our 2026 Big & Little of the Year!

Cass and Kenzie first met at the BBBS Alaska office two years ago. Cass still has the photos they took together that day—and in their recent video, the two even wore the same shirts they received when their match began. What started with wandering around together looking at leaves, bugs, and flowers has grown into a trusted friendship that means a great deal to both of them.

For Cass, becoming a Big offered an opportunity to provide something she didn’t really have growing up: a mentor outside of her immediate family who simply chose to be there. She believes there is something powerful about giving a young person another caring adult in their corner simply because they want to show up for them.

For Kenzie, that consistency has created a relationship where she feels comfortable and safe. When asked whether being matched with Cass was what she thought it would be, Kenzie had a simple answer: “It’s better by like a lot.” She later summed up what Cass means to her by thanking her for “being there whenever I need it.”